Fall Branch, TN (September 20, 2025) – Two individuals sustained serious injuries in a multi-vehicle crash that occurred Friday evening on Interstate 81 in Sullivan County. The collision took place at approximately 7:10 PM near mile marker 54.6 on the southbound side of the highway, according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation and the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP).
Emergency responders from Sullivan County, including medics and rescue crews, were dispatched to the scene where they found a Ford F-250 overturned on the grassy shoulder and a Cadillac XT4 in the median. First responders provided immediate medical care to the occupants of the Ford, both of whom were transported to a nearby hospital with serious injuries.
According to THP’s preliminary investigation, the crash began when a Cadillac XT4 was slowing in the right lane of I-81 southbound. Simultaneously, a Ford F-250 traveling in the adjacent left lane also began to decelerate. The Ford reportedly attempted to merge into the right lane and side-swiped the Cadillac. As a result of the impact, the Ford veered off the right side of the roadway, entered the grass shoulder, and rolled over before coming to rest upright. The Cadillac also left the roadway, coming to a stop in the grassy median.
Authorities confirmed that all individuals involved were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, and no citations or charges have been issued as of this report. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional updates may be released pending further review.
We extend our thoughts to the injured individuals and wish them a full and swift recovery.
Rollover Accidents in Tennessee
Rollover accidents, such as the one that occurred on I-81 near Fall Branch, are among the most dangerous types of vehicle crashes on Tennessee highways. They frequently result in severe injuries due to the violent forces involved, especially when a truck or SUV is part of the incident. In this case, the Ford F-250’s rollover underscores the risks that come with high-center-of-gravity vehicles during sudden lane maneuvers.
Interstate 81 is a vital corridor for both passenger and freight traffic, and the stretch through Sullivan County is known for fast-moving vehicles and high congestion during peak hours. When multiple vehicles attempt to change lanes or slow down in close proximity, the margin for error is minimal. Even a minor miscalculation can lead to a devastating rollover, as seen in this crash.
One factor that significantly reduced the potential for fatality in this case was the confirmed use of seatbelts by all involved. Seatbelt compliance plays a crucial role in survivability, especially in rollover scenarios, where the risk of ejection is high.
Crashes like this also highlight the importance of proper lane-change signaling, adequate following distances, and defensive driving when navigating busy interstates. With high speeds and unpredictable traffic patterns, drivers must remain vigilant, particularly in transitional zones like mile marker 54.6, where highway curves and merges may be present.
For those recovering from injuries due to a highway crash, access to timely medical treatment and support services is essential. It’s equally important to obtain a detailed crash report and explore all recovery options, including legal or financial guidance if long-term treatment is required.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rollover crash in Tennessee, Local Accident Reports is here to provide assistance. We offer free access to official accident reports and can help connect you with resources to support your recovery.
Need help after a serious accident? Local Accident Reports provides quick access to the information and resources you need. Whether it’s understanding what happened or exploring your next steps, we’re here to support you every step of the way—reach out today.
