DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINAT Two distinct collisions on Interstate 40 on Saturday afternoon caused traffic in Durham County to halt, with up to ten vehicles involved and lengthy backlogs in both directions.
Multiple Vehicles Involved in Westbound Crash Near Davis Drive
The initial collision occurred in the westbound lanes of I-40 close to Davis Drive (exit 280) shortly after 1:40 p.m. The collision required the closure of the two left lanes and seemed to involve over six automobiles, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).
At least seven cars were pulled to the shoulder following the collision, according to live traffic camera footage. At least two miles of traffic were backed up as a result of the crash, reaching into Wake County.
Although emergency personnel were spotted on the area, authorities have not yet verified if anyone was hurt.
Second Crash Minutes Later Near Fayetteville Road
Twenty minutes later, another collision happened on I-40, eastbound, close to Fayetteville Road (exit 276). At least four cars were involved, and one of them was said to have been facing the wrong way following the collision.
According to NCDOT, the eastbound collision caused a further traffic bottleneck, with backups extending over a mile.
Traffic Cleared by Mid-Afternoon
According to officials, the wreckage on Fayetteville Road was cleared by 3:35 p.m., while the Davis Drive incident was cleared by 3:45 p.m.By late afternoon, both lines of traffic were operating properly once more.
No details on potential injuries in either instance had been made public as of Saturday night.
The News & Observer has further information.
FollowSaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for ongoing traffic, road conditions, and public safety warnings around North Carolina.
