I-40 Chaos Near Tennessee–North Carolina Line: Horse Trailer Crash Closes Both Directions for Hours
HAYWOOD COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA — Traffic along Interstate 40 near the Tennessee–North Carolina state line came to a complete standstill Friday evening after a multi-vehicle crash involving a horse trailer forced authorities to close the highway in both directions for several hours.
I-40 Shut Down in Both Directions
According to the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash happened just before 7 p.m. Friday near mile marker 3, when a Ford dually truck pulling a horse trailer lost control while traveling westbound toward Tennessee.
Traffic alerts from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) showed eastbound lanes were shut down near mile marker 3, while westbound lanes were closed near Cold Springs Creek Road, roughly four miles past Exit 7.
The closures caused a major traffic backup through Haywood County as emergency responders worked to clear the scene.
Truck Crossed Median, Hit Three Cars
Troopers said the Ford truck crossed over the eight-inch concrete median barrier, entering the opposite lanes and striking three vehicles traveling eastbound into North Carolina.
Despite the violent impact, no injuries were reported — either to the drivers, passengers, or the horse that was being transported in the trailer.
“The truck was leaving North Carolina and heading into Tennessee when it crossed the median,” said the Highway Patrol. “Fortunately, there were no injuries to anyone in the cars or the animal involved.”
Citations Issued to Driver
The driver of the Ford was issued two citations — one for speeding and another for failure to maintain lane control.
Authorities said the truck was traveling well above the posted 35 mph limit when it crossed into the opposite lane.
Horse and Drivers Safe
Responders confirmed that the horse inside the trailer was safely removed and examined on scene. Animal control officers verified that the animal appeared uninjured.
“It could have been much worse,” one responder said. “Given the size of the trailer and the number of vehicles involved, we’re thankful everyone walked away.”
I-40 Reopened Late Friday
The interstate remained closed for several hours while crews cleared debris and inspected the damaged median. Both directions of I-40 reopened later Friday night, with traffic resuming slowly through the area.
The crash adds to a string of recent incidents along the mountainous I-40 corridor, which frequently sees hazardous conditions from sharp curves, narrow shoulders, and speeding drivers.
Safety Officials Remind Drivers to Slow Down
Law enforcement officials continue to urge drivers to use caution when traveling through the state line region, particularly in areas with ongoing construction and steep terrain.
“That section of I-40 is one of the most dangerous in the state,” an NCDOT spokesperson said. “Even small mistakes can cause chain-reaction crashes. Slow down and maintain control — especially when hauling trailers.”
Do you believe speed limits and safety patrols should be increased along I-40’s mountain stretch near the Tennessee line? Share your thoughts and join the discussion at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
