4 minutes

Dennis Katsnelson

On Tuesday evening, a major pileup collision occurred in Durham, North Carolina. The accident took place during the early evening rush hour on August 15 on westbound I-40 near Exit 275 in Durham. Reports indicate that 32 vehicles were involved in a chain reaction crash on the interstate amid severe storms. According to eyewitness accounts, there were some cars that were completely underneath tractor trailers, which was surprising given the severity of the accident. Motorist Pat Shine told ABC 11 that she was surprised that more people weren't injured.

We took this video from WXII 12 News YouTube Channel.

The extent of injuries is still unknown, but authorities are working tirelessly to gather information and assess the damage. Emergency services were called to the scene immediately and worked to clear the wreckage as quickly as possible. The crash shut down westbound I-40 between Exits 274 and 276 for hours, causing significant traffic delays and congestion.

Despite the severity of the accident, all lanes reopened shortly after 8 p.m., providing some relief to motorists who had been stuck in traffic for hours. However, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to be vigilant and cautious when driving on busy highways, particularly during severe weather conditions.

It is important for drivers to be aware of their surroundings and to take precautions when driving in adverse weather conditions. This includes reducing speed, increasing following distance, and ensuring that their vehicle is equipped with proper safety features such as functioning headlights and brake lights. By taking these simple steps, drivers can help prevent accidents like this from happening and keep themselves and others safe on the road.