Traffic

Jackknifed tractor trailer blocking traffic on highway in Lexington County

A crash completely blocked one side of a major highway running through Lexington County, causing delays for drivers making the Tuesday morning commute.

All of the eastbound lanes on Interstate 26 were blocked near Exit 111, which is the junction with U.S. 1, according to the South Carolina Department of Transportation. That’s in West Columbia, not far from the Richland County line.

Additionally, two westbound lanes on I-26 were also closed, said Master Trooper William Bennett of the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

The collision involved a jackknifed tractor trailer, SCDOT traffic cameras showed.

A crash caused a traffic jam on Interstate 26.
A crash caused a traffic jam on Interstate 26. SCDOT Screen Grab

The crash happened at about 6 a.m., and the lanes were still blocked as of 7:30 a.m., according to SCDOT.

Information about the cause of the collision, and if any other vehicles were involved, was not available.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety has not reported any injuries.

Vehicles were backed up for miles, all the way into Columbia in the area called Malfunction Junction, traffic cameras showed.

There was no word when it’s expected that the lanes would be reopened and the scene cleared.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area if possible, otherwise they should expect delays.

This is a developing story, check back for updates.

BEHIND THE STORY

MORE

This is a breaking news story

In a breaking news situation, facts can be unclear and the situation may still be developing. The State is trying to get important information to the public as quickly and accurately as possible. This story will be updated as more information becomes available, and some information in this story may change as the facts become clearer. Refresh this page later for more updated information.

Related Stories from The State in Columbia SC
Noah Feit
The State
Noah Feit is a Real Time reporter with The State focused on breaking news, public safety and trending news. The award-winning journalist has worked for multiple newspapers since starting his career in 1999. Support my work with a digital subscription
Get one year of unlimited digital access for $159.99
#ReadLocal

Only 44¢ per day

SUBSCRIBE NOW