Although it has been nearly 30 years, many Tennesseans will never forget the crash of 1990 that killed 12 and injured more than 40 people on Interstate 75.
Bill Dyer was a deputy with the Bradley County Sheriff’s department. He was called to the scene, but struggled to find the wreck. The area was so foggy, Dyer said he could actually move the fog with his hand.
Worst crash in Tennessee history
Dyer was greeted by the sound of metal-on-metal. He said that he heard crash, after crash, after crash. He saw a man stumbling toward him and heard the screams of the other crash victims. The fog was so thick, Dyer said, drivers could not see the stopped cars at the end of their hood.
More than 99 vehicles were involved in the crash. Removing the wreckage took days and parts of the road had to be rebuilt.
Although it has not happened in recent years, experts say that the weather conditions could be duplicated.
June in Nashville
Most people assume that foul weather accidents happen in the colder month, like November through February. While it is true that snow can be a factor, summer weather creates hazards for drivers as frequently as winter weather does.
The difference seems to be that people are more careful and anticipate winter driving conditions – they are more cautious than they are in summertime.
With thunder storms in the forecast six days out of seven, the weather conditions in Tennessee are undoubtedly a factor, and a hazard for experienced and novice drivers alike.
Next Steps
If you have been involved in a crash while driving in inclement weather, please call the law offices of George R. Fusner Jr. immediately to schedule a free case evaluation.
Be careful out there
Like everyone else on the road that morning, Becky Isbill was just driving and minding her own business. She did not expect her life to change on December 11, 1990 – but she said that she will never forget the horrors that she saw and heard.
“Every single one” of the people involved in the crash, Isbill said, “Their lives changed, in that split second.”
The crash of 1990 is still the worst crash in Tennessee history, and in the top five worst crashes of all time in the history of the U.S.
Following these driving tips in inclement weather may save your life:
- Be aware of larger vehicles, like semi-trucks as they often do not stay in their lane
- Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel with both hands
- Abstain from using technology while driving
- Slow down and take your time
- Lights on for safety
- Maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you
Prepare your vehicle
Experts from the National Safety Council suggest that preparing your vehicle for bad weather conditions is one of the best ways to avoid disaster on the roadway. They suggest making sure that your tires, headlights, taillights, turn signals, windshield, hazard lights and vehicle engine are in good working order.
They also suggest that knowing the roadway is crucial. In Tennessee, roads may look dry, but the asphalt may actually be wet. Flooded roads can be hard to see until you are right on top of the water, causing hydroplaning.
For more than 40 years, we have represented the interest of the injured. Our team has the skill and diverse experience to get you the justice and compensation that you deserve.
Call 615-251-0005 to schedule a free consultation.
Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr.
424 Church Street, Suite 2000
Nashville, TN 37219
800-427-8960
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