Drivers in Putnam County are advised that a portion of I-40 West will be reduced in capacity on Tuesday evening, potentially causing traffic delays. The right lane at mile marker 285 is set for a close-up from 5:00 pm to 5:00 am due to some environmental scrub-up work, says the Tennessee Department of Transportation. The work is weather-dependent and may be postponed if conditions are unfavorable.
Motorists traveling through the area during the cleanup may encounter delays, with TDOT advising drivers to allow extra travel time. Officials emphasized that the temporary slowdown is necessary to ensure safety as crews work to clear the scene following an earlier accident.
TDOT is also reminding drivers to avoid distractions behind the wheel, urging motorists to put phones away and refrain from texting, posting on social media, or engaging in extended calls while driving. For real-time traffic updates, drivers can check TDOT’s SmartWay Map or call 511 for statewide travel information.
Drivers are also reminded that Tennessee’s Move Over Law is mandatory, not optional. The law requires motorists to move over for highway workers and emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights. Failure to comply can result in penalties of up to 30 days in jail and fines of as much as $500.
