It seems like 18 Wheelers are everywhere
A Key Hub for Commercial Traffic
Our region—Auburn, Opelika, Valley, and Lanett—has become more than a place to live, work, and cheer on our hometown teams. It’s also a key hub for commercial traffic, thanks to booming manufacturing and major highways that carry thousands of vehicles every single day. With more trucks on the road, safety becomes a community conversation.
Manufacturing Boom: Why We See More Trucks on Our Roads
-
Kia and Hyundai plants: Located just east and west of Auburn, these auto giants bring in constant shipments of parts and materials. Kia operates in West Point, GA, while Hyundai is in Montgomery, AL.
-
Supplier expansion: Companies like Shinhwa Auto USA in Auburn are investing millions in EV parts manufacturing, which means more freight traffic flowing in and out of our city every day.
-
Statewide impact: Alabama now ranks fourth in the U.S. for vehicle exports, making auto manufacturing one of our state’s largest industries.
All of this growth fuels a steady stream of tractor-trailers and commercial vehicles along I-85 and US-280.
I-85 and Highway 280: Our Freight Corridors
-
I-85 daily traffic: Between Opelika exits 66–62, traffic counts average more than 34,000 vehicles a day. In busier stretches, the number jumps closer to 47,000 daily travelers.
-
US-280’s role: This route, sees close to 28,000 vehicles a day, making it a critical freight route connecting Opelika and surrounding areas.
These highways are the lifeline of East Alabama commerce, but they also create unique safety concerns for local drivers.
Safety Tips for Driving Around Commercial Vehicles
Stay Visible
Avoid blind spots (“no zones”) beside and behind 18-wheelers.
Give Space
Leave extra room when following, passing, or merging. Trucks need longer to stop and turn.
Be Cautious in High-Risk Areas
Interchanges, construction zones, and sharp turns are hotspots. Slow down and be alert.
Drive Defensively
In bad weather or heavy traffic, avoid sudden moves. Anticipate wide turns and slower speeds uphill.
Why This Matters
Our area’s unique mix of manufacturing growth, busy interstates, and commuter traffic means commercial vehicles are part of everyday life here. Knowing why these trucks are on our roads—and how to drive safely around them—helps keep everyone safer.
When Accidents Happen
Despite best efforts, crashes with 18-wheelers can still happen. These accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries or wrongful death. That’s when having an experienced legal team matters most.
At Walton Law Firm, Trip Walton and our team bring more than 35 years of experience, with million- and multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements secured for truck accident victims in Auburn, Opelika, and across East Alabama and West Georgia. We know the local highways, the trucking industry, and how to hold companies accountable.
Final Word
Traffic is part of our daily lives, and in a growing region like ours, commercial vehicles are here to stay. By driving defensively and understanding the unique challenges of sharing the road with trucks, we can all do our part to make Auburn, Opelika, Valley, and Lanett safer for everyone.
If you or a loved one is injured in a trucking accident, call Walton Law Firm at 334-321-3000 for a free consultation.
