Cary, NC (October 18, 2023) - At approximately 7:45 AM this morning, a four-vehicle collision occurred on Interstate 40 East near the Wade Avenue exit in Cary, North Carolina. The incident resulted in one reported injury.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the collision involved a white Ford F-150 pickup truck, a gray Honda Civic, a silver Toyota Camry, and an 18-wheeler tractor-trailer.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the Ford F-150, driven by a 24-year-old male from Raleigh, was traveling eastbound in the right lane of I-40 when it suddenly veered into the left lane. The pickup truck then struck the rear of the Honda Civic, which was also traveling eastbound in the left lane.
Due to the impact, the Honda Civic was pushed into the center lane and collided with the Toyota Camry, driven by a 32-year-old female from Apex. The collision caused the Camry to spin out of control and come to rest on the shoulder.
Meanwhile, the Ford F-150 continued forward and collided with the 18-wheeler tractor-trailer, which was parked on the shoulder. The impact caused the tractor-trailer to roll over onto its side.
As a result of the crash, the driver of the Honda Civic, identified as 27-year-old Sarah Johnson, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. She was transported by ambulance to WakeMed Cary Hospital for medical attention.
The drivers of the other vehicles involved in the collision were not injured.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol has assumed the investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that the driver of the Ford F-150 may have been distracted or impaired at the time of the crash.
Traffic Delays
The collision caused significant traffic delays on I-40 East during the morning rush hour. The right and center lanes of the interstate were closed for approximately two hours while emergency crews worked at the scene.
Traffic was diverted to the left lane and the shoulder, causing backups for several miles. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes or expect significant delays.
By 9:30 AM, all lanes of I-40 East were reopened to traffic. However, residual delays were reported for some time afterward.
Call for Witnesses
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is requesting the assistance of any witnesses who may have witnessed the collision. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Highway Patrol at (919) 575-1540.
Driver Safety
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safe and attentive driving. Distracted or impaired driving can have devastating consequences.
Motorists are urged to:
- Avoid using cell phones or other electronic devices while driving.
- Refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Be aware of their surroundings and anticipate potential hazards.
- Obey speed limits and traffic laws.
- Allow ample following distance between vehicles.
By following these safety guidelines, drivers can help prevent tragedies like this from occurring.
