A dramatic tractor-trailer explosion temporarily shut down all southbound lanes of Interstate 985 in Gwinnett County, Georgia on Monday evening, causing significant traffic disruptions during rush hour. The incident occurred shortly after 5:15 p.m. on the southbound lanes of I-985, just before the State Route 20 exit (Buford Drive). According to Georgia State Patrol (GSP), the trailer portion of a commercial vehicle traveling southbound suddenly exploded for reasons that remain under investigation. Emergency response teams quickly arrived at the scene to manage the resulting fire and coordinate traffic control in the heavily-traveled corridor. Remarkably, officials reported no injuries resulted from the explosion. Fire crews successfully extinguished the blaze, and GSP confirmed the trailer was not transporting any hazardous materials at the time of the incident. After approximately two hours of closure, authorities were able to reopen all southbound lanes by 7:30 p.m., restoring normal traffic flow to the area. The cause of the unexpected explosion remains the subject of an ongoing investigation by Georgia State Patrol.

Location and Infrastructure

Interstate 985 serves as a critical transportation artery in northeast Georgia, functioning as a spur route that branches from I-85 and connects the Atlanta metropolitan area to Gainesville. The section where the explosion occurred is situated in Gwinnett County, one of the most densely populated counties in Georgia, near the city of Buford. This particular stretch approaching State Route 20 (Buford Drive) experiences heavy daily traffic as it serves both commuters and commercial vehicles traveling between Atlanta's suburbs and the northeastern regions of the state. The area surrounding this junction features several commercial developments, including the Mall of Georgia located just west of the interstate. The interchange with SR 20 is a major access point for both local traffic and visitors to the area's retail centers, contributing to consistently high traffic volumes, particularly during weekday rush hours when this incident occurred.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Georgia law, individuals affected by commercial vehicle incidents may have various legal remedies available depending on the circumstances. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33), allowing recovery of damages if a party is less than 50% at fault for an incident. For property damage or injury claims related to commercial vehicle accidents, Georgia's statute of limitations generally allows two years for personal injury claims and four years for property damage claims (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33). Commercial vehicles typically carry higher insurance coverage limits than personal vehicles, with minimum requirements set by both state and federal regulations. Potential compensation may include recovery for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Those affected by such incidents should document all damages, seek prompt medical attention if needed, and consider consulting with a personal injury attorney familiar with Georgia's transportation laws and commercial vehicle regulations.

Related Resources

• Emergency Services: Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services: (678) 518-4800
• Law Enforcement: Georgia State Patrol - Post 51 (Gwinnett County): (770) 785-6960
• Traffic Information: Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT): 511 or www.511ga.org
• Victim Support: Georgia Office of Victim Services: (800) 593-9474
• Legal Information: State Bar of Georgia Lawyer Referral Service: (800) 334-6865
• Traffic Laws: Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety: www.gahighwaysafety.org
• Commercial Vehicle Regulations: Georgia Department of Public Safety Motor Carrier Compliance Division: (404) 624-7211