Charlotte, NC (June 15, 2026) – Two people were injured after a crash involving a jackknifed truck on Interstate 85 in Mecklenburg County on Saturday morning, June 13, as reported by officials.
The accident occurred on the southbound side of Interstate 85 near Exit 46 at Mallard Creek Church Road. A truck jackknifed and blocked multiple travel lanes, leaving only one lane open to traffic. Emergency units responded to the scene and assisted those involved.
Two people suffered injuries that were described as non-life-threatening. Officials have not confirmed whether other vehicles were involved in the collision. The crash caused major traffic delays and led to the closure of the four left lanes as of 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 13.
Officials are still investigating the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. Our thoughts are with those affected as they continue to recover.
Why Jackknifed Truck Crashes Can Cause Major Traffic Disruptions
A jackknife crash occurs when a truck’s trailer swings outward and forms an angle with the cab, often blocking several lanes of traffic. These incidents can happen because of sudden braking, slippery pavement, excessive speed, or loss of traction between the truck’s tires and the roadway.
Because commercial trucks are much larger than passenger vehicles, a jackknifed trailer can quickly create hazardous conditions for nearby drivers. Traffic congestion often develops as lanes are closed and crews work to clear the roadway. In some cases, secondary crashes can occur when approaching motorists do not have enough time to react to stopped traffic.
Road conditions, vehicle maintenance, cargo weight, and driver actions are among the factors commonly reviewed after truck-related crashes. Understanding these elements can help provide a clearer picture of how a collision occurred and why traffic impacts were so severe.