MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A deadly wreck involving a FedEx truck and a vehicle claimed one life at the intersection of Lamar and Knight Arnold around 2 a.m. Thursday morning.
But it’s hardly the first time a person has been killed there — WREG records indicate we’ve reported on at least four fatal wrecks near that intersection just in the past year.
Lamar, otherwise known as Highway 78, is the primary thoroughfare in town for 18-wheelers and other large trucks.
Some people who live and work around here will tell you, you never really get used to driving in that kind of traffic.
“Before you go through a light, you better look to see what’s coming because them 18 wheelers, they get going, they don’t stop,” said Ed Greulich, who drives Lamar at least three or four times a week. “And if they get a yellow light and they’re hammering, they don’t stop.”
He doesn’t take any chances when it comes to 18-wheelers, and offers this advice to drivers:
“Pay attention to what you’re doing. Watch what’s around you.”
Mike Elayan is still getting used to all the 18-wheelers.
He’s only had this auto shop at Lamar and Knight Arnold for six months. He says it’s not the safest intersection but isn’t sure the city can do anything to change it.
“I don’t know if anything can be done more than what they already have. They got a four-way light.”
He says it’s up to drivers to make Lamar a safer drive.
“If everybody follow the instruction on the lights I think we should be okay, but some people are trying to pass, cross faster and that’s where the trouble end up in.”
