Atlanta: Massive Traffic Pileup Shuts Down I-85

Atlanta: Massive Traffic Pileup Shuts Down I-85Atlanta: Massive Traffic Pileup Shuts Down I-85 Atlanta’s notorious traffic woes reached unprecedented proportions on Wednesday morning, as a colossal multi-vehicle pileup brought Interstate 85 to a standstill for miles. The incident occurred around 6:30 AM, near the Monroe Drive exit. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), a semi-trailer truck lost control and jackknifed across all lanes of the highway, blocking traffic in both directions. Multiple cars, trucks, and motorcycles slammed into the wreckage, creating a chain-reaction pileup that stretched for several kilometers. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but the sheer scale of the accident made it difficult to access the victims. Initial reports indicated dozens of injuries, some of them critical. The exact cause of the pileup is still under investigation, but icy conditions and reduced visibility from thick fog may have contributed to the tragedy. GDOT crews worked tirelessly to clear the wreckage and reopen the highway. However, the massive traffic backup created a nightmare for commuters, many of whom were stranded in their vehicles for hours. “It’s like a scene from a disaster movie,” said one witness. “Cars are everywhere, and people are walking around in shock.” The pileup highlighted the chronic traffic congestion problems that plague Atlanta, a city known for its sprawling suburbs and long commutes. Transportation officials are urging drivers to avoid the affected area and use alternate routes if possible. “We are working around the clock to address this situation, but it will take time to clear the highway and restore normal traffic flow,” said a GDOT spokesperson. “We ask for the patience and understanding of the public.” As the investigation continues, authorities are urging motorists to exercise caution in hazardous weather conditions and to always drive defensively.