Nashville, TN – Several law enforcement agencies responded to multiple crashes across Middle Tennessee on Monday evening, leading to significant traffic disruptions on major interstates.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) reported a series of accidents on Interstate 40, including an overturned vehicle at mile marker 198.6 at approximately 7:11 p.m. A multi-vehicle crash occurred shortly after at mile marker 200.8 at 7:40 p.m., contributing to heavy delays. Authorities also responded to a crash that shut down all lanes of Interstate 840 West, with traffic being diverted at mile marker 33.4 at Peytonsville Road and again at exit 37 at Arno Road. This incident was cleared by 9:38 p.m., according to TDOT’s SmartWay map.
Erin Zeigler from TDOT urged drivers to exercise extra caution, as crews treated areas along Interstate 40, Interstate 65, and Interstate 840. At the time of the incidents, temperatures had dropped significantly, creating slick road conditions. The National Weather Service in Nashville issued warnings about icy bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads, advising drivers to be mindful of the dangerous driving conditions.
The Franklin Police Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) responded to a crash involving eight vehicles on Interstate 65 South just south of the McEwen exit. The crash, which occurred around 8:00 p.m., led to the closure of the southbound lanes. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. However, the closure of the interstate caused significant traffic buildup, and drivers were advised to seek alternate routes.
In addition to the multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 65, TDOT reported other incidents in Williamson County. A multi-car crash occurred at 7:35 p.m., closing the northbound entry ramp at mile marker 66. Another crash took place at 8:44 p.m. at mile marker 62.8, blocking several lanes of traffic.
At approximately 10:01 p.m., Franklin police posted an update stating that a salt truck had been dispatched to the crash site in an effort to clear the roads and ensure safe passage for drivers stranded in traffic. The department advised that the stretch of highway would reopen once the road was salted.
Local authorities warned drivers across the region about hazardous road conditions. Williamson County Fire Rescue posted that many roadways had iced over, urging residents to stay home if possible. Specific warnings were issued for North Berry’s Chapel Road, which was reported to be particularly icy. Meanwhile, some residents of Cheatham County received text alerts urging caution on Highway 49 East, which stretches from Ashland City to Pleasant View.
As of late Monday night, authorities continued to monitor road conditions and assist with clearing accidents. Drivers were strongly advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant while traveling in the area.
