December 11, 1990 – The 1990 I-75 Fog Disaster

The 1990 Interstate 75 fog disaster stands as one of the most tragic and impactful events in the history of highway accidents in the United States. On the fateful morning of December 11, 1990, a section of Interstate 75 near Calhoun, Tennessee, became the scene of a devastating traffic collision due to dense fog, which severely impaired the visibility of motorists.

The location of the disaster was notorious for its susceptibility to fog-related accidents, having experienced previous multi-vehicle collisions caused by poor visibility. Despite this history, the events that unfolded on that December morning would surpass all previous incidents in scale and tragedy.

The disaster unfolded as a series of multi-vehicle collisions involving an astounding total of 99 vehicles. The dense fog created a hazardous environment, making it nearly impossible for drivers to see and react in time to prevent collisions. Tragically, the incident resulted in 12 fatalities and left 42 individuals injured. At the time, it was reported as the largest motor vehicle collision in U.S. history in terms of the number of vehicles involved.

The scale of the disaster drew attention not only due to its sheer magnitude but also because it underscored the dangers posed by weather-related conditions on highways. The incident served as a wake-up call for authorities, prompting a reevaluation of safety measures and infrastructure in areas prone to such weather-related hazards.

Changes in safety

In the aftermath of the 1990 Interstate 75 fog disaster, significant efforts were made to enhance safety along the section of the highway where the collision occurred. These safety improvements included the implementation of advanced warning systems, such as electronic signage and sensors, to alert drivers about adverse weather conditions and reduced visibility. Additionally, improvements were made to the roadway design and infrastructure to mitigate the risks associated with fog.

The disaster also led to increased public awareness about the importance of exercising caution and adapting driving behavior in adverse weather conditions. The tragic events of that December morning left a lasting impact on both the local community and the broader efforts to enhance highway safety across the United States. The lessons learned from the 1990 Interstate 75 fog disaster contributed to ongoing efforts to reduce the occurrence and severity of weather-related accidents on highways nationwide.