MEMPHIS, Shelby County, Tenn., Nov. 6, 2026 — Two women were critically injured on Wednesday afternoon, November 4, in a two-vehicle crash on I-240 West near Lamar Avenue in Memphis, according to the Memphis Police Department.
The crash was reported at 1:38 p.m., and it blocked westbound lanes for about an hour and a half while crews cleared the scene. All lanes have since reopened. Footage from Tennessee Department of Transportation cameras showed a dark-colored vehicle with heavy damage at the scene.
Two vehicles were involved in the collision. Both injured women were taken to a hospital in critical condition, according to the department. Their names and ages have not been released.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Memphis Police Department. No information about possible contributing factors, including speed or impairment, has been released.
We wish those injured a full recovery.
Intersection Crashes in Memphis and Across Tennessee
This crash happened at I-240 and Lamar Avenue in Memphis, TN. For more on crashes at intersections across Tennessee, see our Tennessee intersection crash information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can drivers do to help avoid highway crashes like this one?
Keeping a safe following distance, staying alert for sudden slowdowns, and avoiding distractions behind the wheel can help drivers react in time to prevent a collision.
What injuries are common in two-vehicle crashes on highways?
Highway crashes frequently cause head and neck injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries, especially when vehicles are traveling at higher speeds.
How does speed affect the severity of a crash?
Higher speeds give drivers less time to react and increase the force of impact, which usually leads to more severe injuries and vehicle damage.
What typically causes crashes like this one?
Common causes include distracted driving, following too closely, sudden lane changes, and failure to adjust to traffic conditions, though the specific cause of any crash is determined by investigators.
