A minor collision between a tractor trailer and a passenger car in Kannapolis on Saturday afternoon has led to over 100 cars being stuck on Interstate 85 for hours in the snowy weather.
The crash occurred near the 62 mile marker at approximately 4:30 p.m., said Trooper Whit Efird, and nobody was injured in the crash. Because the snow and icy conditions led to only one or two lanes being traversable in spots, that crash caused the entirety of northbound traffic to have to stop. Over 30 tractor trailers were caught in the incident, jackknifed and became stuck.
None of the other vehicles were involved in significant collisions, confirmed Efird.
The northbound side of the interstate was closed between the Dale Earnhardt Boulevard and Lane Street exits.
Efird said they have called in tow trucks from Cabarrus and Rowan counties to help clear the roadway, but that it would likely take until early Sunday morning for the roadway to be cleared due to the conditions.
The National Guard has been called in to assist with clearing the road and helping the stranded motorists. Efird confirmed that the NCSHP, National Guard and Kannapolis personnel are all working on the scene, including working to remove motorists who are low on gas or otherwise needed to be taken to safe locations, such as warming stations.
Efird said that they have attempted to set up detours, such as nearby Highway 29, but those roads are also becoming congested with disabled vehicles or jackknifed tractor trailers.
People are asked to remain at home if they do not absolutely need to travel. Efird asked drivers to avoid the area of the crash if at all possible.
