Greensboro, NC (May 21, 2026) – A multi-vehicle collision shut down eastbound lanes of West Wendover Avenue between Spring Garden Street and South Holden Road on Wednesday, May 20. Emergency medical crews reported that one person had critical injuries.
Three other people went to a nearby hospital with minor injuries following a separate traffic problem in the westbound lanes. Traffic backups stretched through the corridor for nearly two hours before all lanes reopened around 5:30 p.m.
Greensboro police said the cause of both roadway disruptions had not been determined Thursday evening. Additional details about the vehicles involved were not released in the initial report.
Investigators continue reviewing what led to the Wednesday afternoon highway shutdowns.
We hope those receiving medical treatment make a steady recovery.
Why Multi-Vehicle Highway Delays Can Last for Hours
Multi-vehicle roadway emergencies often create long delays because crews must clear damaged vehicles, remove debris, and reopen lanes safely. Even when only a few vehicles are involved, blocked lanes can quickly slow traffic across busy corridors. Drivers approaching congested roads may also face sudden stops, which can increase the chance of secondary traffic problems nearby.
Medical evaluations can add more time when people report pain or serious harm. Tow trucks may need extra space to remove heavily damaged vehicles, especially on roads with narrow shoulders or heavy traffic flow. Traffic signals, lane markings, and guardrails are sometimes checked after a major roadway shutdown as well. These steps help restore normal travel conditions and reduce further hazards for drivers once lanes reopen.
