Final answer:
Yes, a traffic accident can cause heavy traffic and significant congestion for miles, leading to increased air pollution and fuel consumption.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, a traffic accident can indeed congest highways for miles and miles. This is because traffic congestion is a common result of accidents which can lead to long delays. As seen in urban centers like Washington, D.C., and Delhi, India, the buildup of vehicles creates heavy traffic and extends for substantial distances. Additionally, congested traffic contributes to increased air pollution and fuel consumption, as idling vehicles and slow speeds lead to more pollutants being released per trip compared to free-flowing traffic. Therefore, the impact of a traffic accident on highway traffic can be significant and widespread.