Jefferson County sees large number of wrecks

By JILL MCNEAL
6 News Anchor/Reporter

DANDRIDGE (WATE) - While side and back roads were the problem in most areas, even the busiest roads in Jefferson County like Interstate 40 saw quite an accumulation of ice causing many accidents. 

"We've had several vehicles roll off the interstate at Exit 417 due to the ice on the bridge," said Dandridge City Manager Bryan McCarter.

A Dandridge police officer even crashed his cruiser Friday morning on his way in to work. McCarter said the cruiser is probably totaled, but the officer is fine.

Robert Bristol and his wife were on their way home from Virginia to Washington state when they were involved in a different wreck. He commends the driver of the truck they collided with.

"We were coming down the hill and we just hit a patch of ice and before we knew it we were spinning," Bristol said. "He pretty much saved our lives. He was right behind us. He immediately slowed down and just kept everything real straight and level. Where we ended up, he was right into the passenger side door, but with so little speed no one was hurt."

The sheriff reported more than 30 accidents in Jefferson County Friday, but no serious injuries.