By: Skyler Johnson
A major bottleneck left hundreds of drivers stranded on the I-95 near Fredericksburg, Virginia due to a crash involving six tractor-trailers during a severe winter storm. With 5 to 11 inches of snow, it became difficult to clear debris and highway wreckage. Drivers were left cold, dehydrated, and hungry while waiting for rescue. As temperatures continued to decline, government workers were sought after to facilitate movement.
One of those stranded was Senator Tim Kaine. Kaine was on a 2-hour drive to the Capitol but ended up waiting more than 20 hours, canceling negotiations for voter rights legislation.
The I-95 runs along the east coast from Miami to Canada. The whole event delayed families and commuters on one of the busiest highways during one of the busiest periods of the year.
Fortunately, the Good Samaritans distributed oranges, bottled water, and provisions to those who had not eaten for hours. As the roads became frozen, many drivers were unable to leave their vehicles until they could be saved by the Virginia Department of Transportation.
