A major traffic incident caused significant disruption on Interstate 16 in Chatham County after a crash closed multiple lanes near Exit 166. Authorities confirmed that the incident involved a commercial vehicle and led to extended lane closures and traffic diversions across the area. This type of highway collision is one that car accident lawyers often review when commercial vehicles are involved, as traffic disruptions can lead to injuries or complex liability issues. Interstate 16 is a critical part of Georgia’s transportation system and also serves as a hurricane evacuation route, making any traffic shutdown along this corridor a serious concern for drivers traveling between Savannah and inland regions.
What Officials Have Confirmed
According to the Savannah Police Department, the crash closed several eastbound lanes of Interstate 16 near the 37th Street connector. Traffic was diverted to alternate routes as emergency crews worked at the scene.
Savannah PD advised drivers to avoid the area when possible and seek alternate routes due to ongoing cleanup and investigation efforts.
Semi-Truck Overturn and Fire Response
The Savannah Fire confirmed that a semi-truck overturned near Exit 165 and 37th Street area and caught fire. Fire crews responded quickly to suppress the flames and secure the vehicle.
Georgia Department of Transportation cameras showed damaged road signs and emergency crews using fire extinguishers on the vehicle. Collapsed signage and potential road damage required careful assessment before reopening lanes.
Emergency Medical Transport
According to Chatham County EMS, at least one individual was transported from the scene for medical evaluation. No further information has been released regarding the injured person’s condition.
When crashes occur on major highways such as Interstate 16, emergency response often involves coordination between EMS, fire departments, and law enforcement agencies to manage both medical needs and traffic safety.
Traffic Impact and Timeline for Reopening
Officials reported that the westbound lanes remained affected during cleanup operations, while traffic in other directions experienced significant delays. The Georgia Department of Transportation initially projected a midday reopening.
Savannah Police later stated that normal traffic flow could resume between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., depending on how quickly debris removal and safety inspections were completed.
This section of Interstate 16 connects with the I-16/I-95 Interchange, meaning backups also affected drivers traveling toward I-95 S and nearby corridors leading toward the state line.
Why Commercial Vehicle Crashes Cause Extended Closures
Crashes involving semi-trucks often require extended response times. Factors contributing to delays include:
- Vehicle size and cargo stability
- Fire risk and fuel containment
- Damage to road signs and infrastructure
- Towing and recovery logistics
- Safety inspections before reopening lanes
Even after lanes reopen, investigations may continue behind the scenes.
Investigation Process Following the Crash
The Savannah Police Department and Georgia Department of Transportation continue to review the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigations of this nature typically include:
- Review of roadway conditions near 37th Street
- Examination of the vehicle and the surrounding infrastructure
- Traffic flow analysis through Interstate 16
- Documentation for public safety and transportation planning
Officials emphasized that this incident is unrelated to other recent local news events, including incidents reported at locations such as a Target parking lot or unrelated violent crime investigations.
Broader Traffic and Public Safety Considerations
Interstate 16 plays a key role in regional travel for areas including Savannah, Tybee Island, Beaufort County, and Hampton County. Disruptions on this corridor affect commuters, freight traffic, and emergency routing throughout the region.
Highway incidents also draw attention to long-term transportation planning, construction plans, and interchange modification reports reviewed by transportation authorities across Georgia.
Ongoing Updates
As cleanup concluded and lanes gradually reopened, officials continued monitoring traffic conditions. Drivers were encouraged to remain alert, follow posted instructions, and watch for traffic shifts as normal flow resumed.
Further updates may be released as final reports are completed.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, we represent individuals and families impacted by serious traffic incidents, including highway crashes involving commercial vehicles. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta, and Orangeburg. The firm serves clients across Georgia, focusing on accountability, careful legal review, and clear guidance following disruptive and dangerous roadway events.Contact us today for a free consultation.
