TDOT Releases Findings on Potentially Dangerous Section of I-40 in Wilson County

Many factors can contribute to a car accident. It is not always just the driving of other people that may be involved. If roads are poorly designed or maintained or if street signs are obstructed or damage, these kinds of things can also lead to accidents that involve serious injuries or even death.

A short while ago, The Tennessee Department of Transportation examined the I-40 corridor near mile marker 226 in Wilson County at the request of state and local law enforcement after there were several car accidents involving wet road conditions. This examination included crash data, roadway design plans, and an additional road survey known as Light Detection and Ranging, or LiDAR.

That portion of I-40 was widened not long ago , from west of SR 171 (Mt Juliet Road) to east of SR 109, as part of a design-build contract with Lane Construction Corporation. Design build means that a project delivery method was used that allowed for one contractor to provide design and construction services.

According to the findings of the examination it is believed that the design-build team did not properly account for storm water runoff or the spread of storm water into lanes of travel. The Tennessee Department of Transportation also believes that the project was not constructed properly for the appropriate amount of water runoff. The Tennessee Department of Transportation has asked the design-builder for an action plan to address these issues. Message boards will be posted and used to warn motorists of potential ponding of water during bad weather until a more permanent solution can be found to resolve the issue. A dedicated HELP unit will also be on-site during weather events to shift traffic as needed.

Poorly designed roads, construction equipment, signs, and traffic lights can lead to accidents on any roadway so it is important that drivers be aware of the hazards that wet weather can have on any road. If there is heavy rains or flooding, it is important to use caution when driving because no amount of road signs or road design may be able to prepare you for these conditions. It is also a good idea to remember that car accidents can occur because of these factors even when the weather is not an issue. It is a good idea to always use caution when faced with these types of road conditions. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident and you believe a poor road design may be to blame, then you should contact one of our experienced and caring Tennessee car accident lawyers with the Higgins Firm. We will listen to your case and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We will also work with you and fight for you to see to it that you get any compensation you may be entitled to for any suffering, medical bills, loss of income or any other damages you may have due to your injuries. We will make sure the party responsible pays and is held accountable for their actions.

You can contact us online or by calling 800.705.2121 to discuss your case and any questions you might have.