News Summary
A multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 in Graniteville, S.C., resulted in traffic chaos following an overpass collapse. The incident, involving at least four vehicles, prompted major response efforts, including the deployment of multiple fire departments due to a tanker truck fire. Authorities are managing detours and working to ensure public safety while investigating the cause of the crashes.
Graniteville, S.C. – Overpass Collapse Causes Major Traffic Disruptions
A multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 eastbound in Graniteville, South Carolina, has resulted in significant traffic delays as authorities manage the aftermath of an overpass collapse. This incident occurred early Monday morning at exit 11 in Aiken County and has required an extensive emergency response.
As reported, the collision involved at least four vehicles and happened around 9 a.m. local time. The blockage forced the left lane of I-20 to close, exacerbating traffic congestion in the area. Drivers heading east are currently being diverted at mile markers 11 and 18.
In addition to the current disruption, a separate, unrelated crash on Saturday claimed the life of a 28-year-old woman from New Ellenton. She was involved in a collision at the intersection of Whiskey Road and Chukker Creek Road, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety in the region.
Tanker Truck Fire Leads to Catastrophic Collapse
The incident on I-20 is part of a larger emergency situation that includes a significant vehicle collision earlier that morning. At approximately 3:50 a.m., Aiken County dispatch received reports of an 18-wheeler carrying a gasoline tanker that crashed under the Old Vaucluse Road Bridge. Immediately upon arrival, local fire crews discovered the tanker, which contained 8,500 gallons of gasoline, was engulfed in flames.
While firefighters worked to extinguish the fire, the Old Vaucluse Road overpass collapsed, creating hazardous conditions for first responders and further complicating efforts to control the fire. Nine fire departments, with a total of 35 personnel, were deployed to the scene and utilized 10,000 gallons of water in the firefighting efforts.
As a result of the crash, two individuals were transported to an Augusta, Georgia hospital, though their conditions have not been disclosed. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently conducting an investigation into the cause of the accident.
Response and Recovery Efforts
South Carolina Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell has stated that a contractor is en route to begin cleanup and repairs. The goal is to reopen I-20 by the beginning of the next week, but the recovery of the Old Vaucluse Road and its bridge might take several months.
Aiken County Sheriff Marty Sawyer has urged caution among drivers who are transitioning from interstate to surface roads, particularly as speed limits change in those areas. The demolition of the collapsed bridge is already underway, with plans for repaving and guardrail installation to follow.
Public Safety Information
Traffic alerts and updates on detours are being provided by local first responders and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT). Commuters in the area are encouraged to stay informed and seek alternative routes while the cleanup and repairs are ongoing.
As investigators work to determine the cause of the collisions and assess the damage, local law enforcement and transportation officials remain focused on ensuring safety and restoring normal traffic flow as swiftly as possible.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: 4 Vehicle Crash Slows Traffic on I-20 Aiken County
- WLTX: Interstate 20 Closure Due to Gas Truck Fire
- WYFF: Tractor-Trailer Hits Bridge Causing Collapse on I-20
- The State: Traffic Disruptions Due to Overpass Collapse
- ABC Columbia: Crews Reopen I-20 to Traffic Following Bridge Collapse
- Wikipedia: Traffic Accident
- Google Search: Traffic Safety
- Google Scholar: Road Safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Accident
- Google News: Traffic Updates
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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