On Monday evening, a serious accident occurred on I-95 South near Red Oak, Nash County, North Carolina, involving two tractor trailers. The collision caused extensive damage, blocked southbound lanes, and resulted in fuel and engine fluid spills across the highway. According to the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just before 6:50 p.m. near North Halifax Road and mile marker 143, requiring a coordinated emergency response.
Photos from the scene revealed a jackknifed Kenworth tractor-trailer that collided with a stationary Peterbilt tractor-trailer hauling a large excavator on a flatbed. The Kenworth driver, Marvin Gay Young, 61, of Smithfield, was charged with failure to reduce speed and failure to maintain lane. He was treated at a nearby hospital for minor injuries. The driver of the stopped Peterbilt escaped uninjured.
This crash highlights the risks of tractor-trailer accidents on high-speed highways such as I-95 South in Nash County, especially when vehicles are mechanically disabled or improperly positioned on the shoulder. In such cases, consulting a Truck Accident Lawyer can help victims understand their rights and legal options.
Accident Details
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol reported that the Peterbilt truck had stopped on the shoulder due to mechanical issues. While the driver was inspecting the engine, the Kenworth truck ran off the road to the right and struck the rear of the flatbed. The impact caused the Kenworth to jackknife, partially blocking the #1 southbound lane of I-95 South.
Vehicle Information
- Stopped truck: Black Peterbilt tractor-trailer, hauling a large excavator
- Moving truck: White Kenworth tractor-trailer
- Damage: Front cab of Kenworth extensively damaged; trailer jackknifed
The crash forced the closure of southbound lanes of I-95 South from just past Exit 145 to North Halifax Road, affecting traffic around mile marker 145 and nearby routes such as NC Highway 4 and Route 18.
Highway Closure and Cleanup
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and North Carolina State Highway Patrol coordinated the closure and cleanup. Emergency response included:
- Blocking traffic on the affected southbound lanes
- Containing spilled fuel and engine fluids from both trucks
- Clearing debris from the truck maneuvering accident
- Assisting emergency medical personnel
I-95 South was initially expected to reopen by 10 p.m., but cleanup extended into the night, reopening around 1 a.m. The closure caused traffic congestion, delays, and detours for local commuters, truck drivers, and freight carriers in Nash County.
Contributing Factors
Tractor-trailer crashes often involve multiple factors, and this accident was no exception. Contributing causes include:
- Mechanical issues: Stalled Peterbilt tractor-trailer required roadside attention
- Driver fatigue: A common factor in commercial trucking
- Failure to reduce speed: Kenworth driver did not adequately adjust speed for stopped vehicles
- Traffic congestion: Evening rush hour in Nash County may have limited reaction time
- Highway hazards: Debris, road work, or poor shoulder conditions
Crashes of this nature also risk vehicle fires, spilled fuel hazards, and secondary accidents for passing motorists.
Legal Implications
Collisions involving tractor-trailers on major highways like Interstate 95 often have serious legal consequences. Drivers may face:
- Charges such as failure to maintain lane or negligent driving
- Claims for personal injury or wrongful death
- Liability issues for multi-vehicle accidents
- Insurance disputes with insurance companies over coverage for damages
Legal professionals often review truck maintenance logs, driver records, and accident reconstruction reports to determine liability. Victims may pursue personal injury claims for medical bills, long-term medical costs, or rehabilitation expenses.
Emergency Response and Community Impact
The rapid response by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and NCDOT helped prevent further incidents. Emergency crews coordinated:
- Traffic control for the affected area, including mile marker 145 and Exit 145
- Hazard containment for fuel and engine fluid spills
- Assistance to drivers and injured individuals at nearby facilities like UNC Nash Hospital
The crash impacted local communities such as Red Oak, Rocky Mount, and surrounding areas, causing detours and delays on NC Highway 4, County Route 520, and Route 18. News coverage from outlets like WRAL News and WNCN ensured timely updates to drivers and residents.
Safety Tips for Drivers and Communities
Highway safety is critical to prevent accidents involving tractor-trailers. Key recommendations include:
- Maintain a safe following distance
- Be aware of stopped vehicles or roadside maintenance
- Follow speed limits and reduce speed in congested conditions
- Avoid distractions while driving
- Monitor weather conditions, including Snow & Ice, and adjust driving accordingly
- Report mechanical issues or hazards to authorities immediately
Drivers of tractor-trailers, including Mack trucks, Volvo trucks, or Peterbilt vehicles, should prioritize truck maintenance logs and follow federal safety rules to prevent accidents.
Truck Accident Statistics
Commercial vehicle crashes account for thousands of incidents annually in the U.S., with tractor-trailer accidents representing a significant portion. Common contributing factors include:
- Driver fatigue
- Mechanical failure
- Impaired or distracted driving
- Road conditions and weather hazards
- Traffic congestion and highway construction zones
Collisions can result in fatalities, traumatic brain injuries, or long-term medical costs, emphasizing the need for proper accident investigation and legal support.
Ted Law: Protecting Victims of Tractor-Trailer Crashes
At Ted Law Firm, We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. we understand the challenges that arise after serious accidents, especially those involving commercial vehicles like tractor-trailers. Navigating personal injury claims, insurance disputes, or potential wrongful death lawsuits can be overwhelming during such difficult times.Contact us today for a free consultation.
