News
MHP investigated more than 300 crashes in construction zone on I-20
More than 300 wrecks have occurred on I-20 near construction zone since 2025.
VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Mississippi Highway Patrol said the crash totals in the construction zone on I-20 east of Vicksburg has resulted in more than 300 crashes since the construction began in 2025.
There have been five crashes this week alone in the area just outside of Vicksburg near the Edwards and Bovina exits.
Reports say that of the more than 300 wrecks, nearly 70 have resulted in injuries — including one death. A vast majority of the incidents involve 18-wheeler trucks.
MHP Trooper Darnika Mayfield said reckless driving is a large factor in an interview she had with Jackson’s Channel 3 news.
“A lot of people is doing illegal stuff. A lot of people are riding the shoulder. They’re passing people on the shoulder. We experience a lot of that. And we also experience a lot of road rages through here,” Mayfield explained. “So, we are giving people citation. A lot of people don’t think we are, but we are giving them citation for doing something illegal as well.”
Also included in the interview, MHP wanted to remind drivers that tickets issued in a construction zone have a higher cost to violators.
“Just pay attention; just pay attention. Slow down the speed, the speed limit. It goes down usually 70 but, due to constructions, on speed limit are 60 mph,” said Mayfield. “And we just want to let everybody know if you, if anything, if you do have a crash or speed or anything on this highway, know that the fine does double. So, if you end up getting a citation, it is a double fine.”
Transportation Commissioner Willie Simmons was recently the keynote speaker at the Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon. At the luncheon several local residents were given the opportunity to address the construction zones and voice concerns.
Many locals suggested using hazard lights when driving through the area to alert other drivers to slow down. Another idea was to have two construction crews working 12 hour shifts to speed up completion of the construction project.
MDOT said these crashes have caused some delays, but officials still expect to wrap up construction by fall 2026.
