A major collision in Lenoir City brought traffic to a standstill after a dump truck hauling rock collided with a traffic light pole at the intersection of Highway 11 and Highway 70 East. The impact of the crash sent the pole crashing down onto another vehicle, prompting an immediate response from local emergency services. The Loudon County Sheriff's Office confirmed the incident on social media, urging drivers to exercise caution and seek alternative routes due to expected delays.
According to the information shared by the Sheriff's Office via a Facebook post, several agencies including the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Priority Ambulance Service, and Loudon County Fire/Rescue were dispatched to the scene. Commuters faced significant disruptions as both highways were shutdown until further notice. "Please use caution, expect delays, and consider an alternate route," the post read, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the impact on the evening commute.
The traffic lights, rendered inoperable by the collision, led to traffic being diverted around the scene. Authorities worked swiftly to manage the flow of vehicles, but despite their efforts, heavy congestion built up rapidly. "Slow down and remain alert for emergency personnel and slow-moving traffic," the Sheriff's Office warned, reinforcing the urgency of safety in the chaos of the accident's aftermath.
