Multi-car wreck on Charlotte highway prompts Labor Day weekend warning by firefighters
A multi-vehicle wreck on Interstate 85 in Charlotte early Saturday prompted a warning to drivers about the busy Labor Day holiday travel weekend.
Charlotte Fire Department Ladder 13 quickly responded to the wreck on I-85 North at Beatties Ford Road, fire department officials said on X, the former Twitter. One person was hurt and was given “immediate care,” according to the department.
The department included video of the wreck aftermath, showing a fire engine parked across two lanes as vehicles sped by the scene. A car and a pickup truck were shown smashed against the concrete barrier that divides the north- and southbound lanes.
Further details of the collision weren’t available on Saturday.
“Stay extra cautious,” fire officials urged drivers, given the “heavy travel expected across the region.”
“Look out for one another” on roads
“Increased traffic can lead to more accidents, so it’s crucial to remain alert, avoid distractions, and practice safe driving habits,” the department said on X.
“We’re here for you when you need us, but we encourage everyone to prioritize safety and look out for one another.,” according to the fire department. “Drive safe, Charlotte. Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.”
Charlotte Douglas International Airport and American Airlines expect to break Labor Day weekend travel records, The Charlotte Observer previously reported. The airline operates its second-largest hub at CLT.
More than 1.14 million people were expected to use CLT for arriving and departing flights from Thursday, Aug. 29, through Wednesday, Sept. 4, according to the airport. That’s 19% higher than last year, or 216,600 more passengers.
At least 287 flight departures and arrivals were delayed at the airport as of 11 p.m. Saturday and 106 canceled, according to Flight Aware.com, which tracks flights at the nation’s airports.
This is a developing story that will be updated.
This story was originally published August 31, 2024 at 12:17 PM.