A section of Interstate 85 in Spartanburg County was temporarily closed Saturday morning as emergency crews responded to a serious traffic incident involving a tractor trailer, a type of situation a truck accident lawyer may later review when commercial vehicles and hazardous road conditions are involved. Snowy and deteriorating road conditions contributed to multiple crashes across the region, prompting authorities to urge the public to avoid unnecessary travel.
The closure occurred on the southbound side of Interstate 85 near mile marker 81, where a tractor trailer became disabled across several lanes of traffic. The incident caused significant delays and added to already high call volumes for emergency responders throughout the Upstate.
Tractor Trailer Wreck Causes Interstate Closure
Emergency crews were dispatched early Saturday morning after reports of a wreck involving a tractor trailer on Interstate 85. According to officials, the semi truck became stuck across multiple lanes, forcing authorities to shut down the roadway while crews worked to clear the scene.
Traffic cameras from the South Carolina Department of Transportation showed traffic either stopped or moving at a crawl for more than two miles. Motorists experienced extended delays as emergency personnel worked to manage the situation safely.
The interstate remained closed while crews assessed the wreck, redirected traffic, and addressed safety concerns caused by icy road conditions.
Snow and Ice Contribute to Worsening Road Conditions
Officials confirmed that the Interstate 85 wreck was one of several incidents reported as snow continued to impact road safety throughout the area. Freezing temperatures and accumulating snow created hazardous driving conditions, increasing the likelihood of vehicles losing control.
As conditions worsened, authorities emphasized that even major highways were not immune to winter weather dangers. Tractor trailers and other large vehicles are particularly vulnerable to reduced traction on icy surfaces, which can result in roadway blockages when control is lost.
South Carolina Highway Patrol Reports High Call Volumes
Master Trooper Mitchell Ridgeway with the South Carolina Highway Patrol stated that troopers were already responding to a high number of calls across the region.
Ridgeway explained that while some drivers believe traveling during snowfall may feel safer than driving on ice, it remains essential to follow winter driving precautions. He warned that road conditions were expected to deteriorate further as the day progressed.
Authorities encouraged residents to stay home whenever possible and avoid travel unless it was absolutely necessary.
Greenville Police Respond to Multiple Collisions
In nearby Greenville, law enforcement agencies also reported a sharp increase in traffic incidents. The Greenville Police Department shared that officers responded to eight collisions within a 25-minute span late Saturday morning.
Police warned that city roads were unsafe and urged drivers to remain off the road. Officials emphasized that small adjustments in driving behavior, such as reducing speed and increasing following distance, can significantly reduce the risk of collisions during winter weather.
Public Safety Message From Greenville Police
The Greenville Police Department released a statement strongly advising the public to avoid driving unless travel was unavoidable. For those required to travel for work or essential needs, police asked drivers to take extra precautions, including:
- Driving at reduced speeds
- Turning on headlights
- Allowing ample space between vehicles
- Avoiding sudden braking or sharp turns
Officials stressed that limiting travel helps keep roads safer for both motorists and first responders, allowing emergency crews to respond more effectively to critical situations.
Policy on Single Vehicle Crashes Without Injuries
Due to the high volume of calls, Greenville police announced they would not dispatch officers to single vehicle crashes that do not involve injuries. Drivers involved in non-injury single vehicle incidents were instructed to complete an accident report online and submit it directly to their insurance provider.
This policy allows officers to prioritize emergencies involving injuries, roadway blockages, or immediate safety risks during severe weather conditions.
Road Closures in Spartanburg
Spartanburg police also began closing roads deemed unsafe for travel. Authorities confirmed that Wofford Street from Baltimore Street to Textile Road was closed after becoming impassable.
Officials warned that additional road closures were likely as conditions continued to worsen throughout the day. Drivers were urged to monitor local alerts and avoid closed areas.
Risks Associated With Winter Weather Driving
Winter storms significantly increase the risk of traffic collisions due to reduced visibility, icy surfaces, and longer stopping distances. Even experienced drivers may struggle to maintain control when road conditions change rapidly.
Large commercial vehicles, such as tractor trailers, can present added hazards during winter weather due to their size, weight, and longer braking distances. When these vehicles lose control, they can block multiple lanes and create dangerous conditions for other motorists.
Impact on Emergency Response Resources
Snow related crashes place added strain on emergency services, including law enforcement, fire departments, and medical responders. High call volumes can delay response times, particularly when crews are already managing multiple incidents across a wide area.
Authorities consistently stress that avoiding unnecessary travel during winter storms is one of the most effective ways to reduce the number of crashes and protect emergency personnel.
What Drivers Should Expect After Major Highway Closures
Following major highway closures, authorities typically conduct roadway inspections to ensure conditions are safe before reopening lanes. Crews may apply additional treatments to improve traction and remove disabled vehicles before traffic resumes.
Motorists traveling after reopening should remain cautious, as residual ice and changing temperatures can continue to create hazards even after a roadway is cleared.
Ongoing Monitoring of Road Conditions
State and local agencies continue to monitor road conditions as winter weather persists. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed through official transportation updates and local law enforcement advisories.
Conditions can change quickly during snow events, and roads that appear passable may become dangerous within a short period of time.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, represents individuals and families affected by motor vehicle accidents across South Carolina. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston,Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. The firm focuses on accountability, clear communication, and helping clients understand their legal options following unexpected roadway incidents.Traffic accidents involving commercial vehicles or hazardous weather can raise complex legal and financial concerns. Understanding rights and responsibilities after a crash is an important step toward recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.
