One person was killed, and multiple people were hurt in a crash involving 53 vehicles on Interstate 40 in Orange County as snow blanketed the region Wednesday afternoon. More than 1,000 crashes were reported across the state during the winter storm, according to transportation officials.
Two separate wrecks happened just before 3 p.m. on I-40 westbound at the Interstate 85 connector, causing traffic to slow to a stop and back up onto I-40, N.C. State Highway Patrol officials said.
"The stopped traffic was struck from behind by multiple vehicles, including a tractor/trailer that struck a passenger vehicle from behind causing a fatality. At least three additional multi-vehicle collisions occurred behind the fatal collision blocking I-40," Highway Patrol officials said. "Twelve collisions occurred within the immediate area of I-40 near the 159-mile marker."
Jerolyn Day Wilson, 78, of Burlington, was killed in the crash, according to officials. The driver of the tractor-trailer that crashed into the vehicle, identified by troopers as 44-year-old William Kellam, was charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and exceeding a safe speed for conditions.
Winter weather created hazardous road conditions along state highways and roads that led to other crashes, too. According to state officials, 1,196 crashes were reported across North Carolina on Wednesday, with another 748 calls for service that included downed trees and traffic lights.
As of noon Thursday, an estimated 6,105 power outages were reported statewide, with the majority on the east coast where ice has caused significant damage. The State Emergency Response Team remains activated, with the North Carolina National Guard deployed to assist on roadways, including 188 guardsmen and 60 vehicles.
At least three crashes were reported on I-40 in the Triangle area Thursday morning, including near Highway 70, near N.C. 210 and near South Saunders Street.
Since Wednesday, more than 2,300 NCDOT employees and contractors have worked to clear roads, deploying over 2,200 trucks and motor graders and using 12,650 tons of salt, according to the Governor's Office. Crews are prioritizing interstates and major highways, with thawing not expected until Friday afternoon. Officials warn of continued dangers from black ice in the mornings.
"Our crews are working around the clock to clear roads across the state and will not stop until the job is done," said NCDOT Secretary Joey Hopkins"Our crews are working around the clock to clear roads across the state and will not stop until the job is done," said NCDOT Secretary Joey Hopkins in a press release. "The snow and ice dumped on our state have left many roads too dangerous for travel. If you don't need to be on the roads, please stay home and stay safe."
For road conditions, visit DriveNC.gov. For power outage updates and winter weather preparedness, visit ReadyNC.gov.
The NCDOT urges drivers to stay home unless necessary. With ice still on roads, transportation officials recommend the following for those who must travel:
- Slow down and keep a safe following distance. Excessive speed is the top cause of winter crashes
- Avoid cruise control and use smooth movements when braking, turning or accelerating
- Be cautious on bridges and overpasses, which freeze first. Do not brake while crossing them
- Treat intersections with power outages as four-way stops — come to a complete stop or yield as needed
- Clear snow and ice from windows, mirrors, headlights and the roof before driving
What to do if you slide
- Stay calm and ease off the gas pedal
- Avoid slamming the brakes. Use gentle, steady pressure on anti-lock brakes or pump standard brakes
- For rear-wheel skids, steer in the direction your rear wheels are sliding
- For front-wheel skids, shift into neutral, wait for traction, then steer and gently accelerate
