Good afternoon,
Interstate 95 is known for delays, but Tuesday’s accident was a reminder of what can happen in a heartbeat when heavy metal is involved.
As noted in the story below a tractor-trailer overturned leading to one death and a critically injured child. The southbound lane was closed for seven a half hours.
Such mishaps are nothing new on this stretch I-95. As the victim list shows, the interstate is both a commuter route as well as a key artery for travelers and trucks between Boston and Florida.
It is also true that based on miles traveled, the Delaware interstate may not be as dangerous as other highways in the state, despite an increase in aggressive and distracted driving.
Vehicles are much safer these days, but those advantages may not be enough when a big rig is involved.
DelDOT and State Police have contingency plans that range from mass casualty accidents that use an ambulance-bus to overturned trucks containing bees (yes it happened).
The question is whether more can be done. Getting traffic moving after a fatal accident involving a tractor-trailer may be too much to ask, but seven and a half hours is a long time.
We also have less serious accidents that can lead to painful back-ups and contribute to other collisions.
DelDOT has added an innovation center. Perhaps another look at best practices along I-95, with input from first responders and those living with equally congested routes is in order.
If this newsletter was passed along, sign up here to get your own five-day-a-week E-mail report at no charge. – Doug Rainey, chief content officer.
