Barnett, GA (September 9, 2026) – One person was taken to a hospital after a commercial motor vehicle pulling a mobile home struck three passenger cars on Tuesday afternoon, September 8, on Interstate 20 near Cadley Norwood Road.
The commercial vehicle was traveling eastbound and approaching a construction zone with the right lane closed. The driver said he could not stop, and the brakes locked when he applied them, according to the report.
The mobile home then struck three passenger vehicles traveling in the other lane before the commercial vehicle came to a complete stop. One of the passenger vehicles was later towed.
Emergency units assisted at the location while the eastbound lanes remained closed. Construction was underway along that stretch of I-20, with the right lane scheduled to close for maintenance, although the connection between the road work and the collision had not been confirmed. The investigation into what led to the wreck is still underway.
Our thoughts are with the person who was hurt and everyone affected by the accident.
What Happens When a Vehicle Cannot Stop in a Construction Zone?
Construction zones can create sudden changes in traffic patterns, including lane closures, reduced speeds, and narrower travel paths. Large vehicles towing trailers or other loads may need more distance to stop, particularly when approaching a temporary lane change.
Drivers should reduce speed when approaching work zones and watch for signs, cones, barriers, and changing lane assignments. Maintaining extra following distance can also provide more time to react if traffic slows suddenly.
For commercial vehicles, stopping distance can vary based on the vehicle’s weight, load, brakes, road surface, and travel speed. A mechanical problem can further affect a driver’s ability to stop as expected.
When multiple vehicles become involved, investigators may review vehicle positions, roadway conditions, traffic-control measures, and available photographs or video to determine how the sequence unfolded.
