Lavonia, GA (January 8, 2025) – A wrong-way driver caused multiple wrecks on Interstate 85 near the Lavonia exit on Monday night, resulting in injuries to three drivers. The accidents occurred shortly before 9:00 PM, prompting a significant emergency response and the closure of I-85 Northbound lanes for approximately three hours.
According to the Georgia State Patrol, a Toyota Corolla Matrix driven by 75-year-old Marilyn Demarino of Asheville, North Carolina, was traveling south in the northbound lanes of the interstate. A northbound Freightliner truck, driven by 50-year-old Jermial Rogers of Dallas, Texas, swerved to avoid the wrong-way vehicle but overturned in the process. Moments later, the Toyota collided head-on with a northbound Mini Cooper driven by 30-year-old Tracy Ritter of Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Emergency responders transported Demarino and Ritter, both of whom sustained non-life-threatening injuries, to Anmed Healthcare in Anderson, South Carolina. Rogers, who sustained serious injuries, was airlifted to Prisma Healthcare in Greenville for treatment.
Hazmat teams and wrecker services worked to clear the scene, which involved overturned vehicles and debris, while law enforcement conducted an investigation into the incident. Traffic in the area was heavily impacted during the recovery process.
Our thoughts are with those injured in this crash, and we hope for their swift recovery.
Wrong-Way Accidents in Georgia
Wrong-way collisions are among the most dangerous types of vehicle accidents, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities due to the high speeds involved. Interstate highways like I-85 are particularly prone to such incidents, as they see significant traffic volume and require careful navigation.
Contributing factors to wrong-way crashes often include impaired driving, confusion on highway ramps, or driver inattention. The Georgia Department of Transportation continues to implement measures such as improved signage and road markings to prevent these dangerous situations.
For those injured in accidents caused by wrong-way drivers, accessing medical care, managing recovery, and navigating insurance claims can be challenging. Understanding one’s rights and seeking legal guidance are essential steps toward resolution and recovery.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, contact Local Accident Reports for support.