A major chain-reaction crash involving more than three dozen vehicles brought the westbound lanes of the Bay Bridge to a standstill on Saturday, as reported by the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA). The incident, which took place on the US-50 Bay Bridge, resulted in a series of secondary crashes and left commuters stuck for hours, disrupting travel plans for many.
Over Three Dozen Vehicles Involved in Chain-Reaction Crash
According to MDTA officials, the initial crash involved 23 vehicles, triggering a chaotic sequence of events leading to an additional 20 vehicles becoming entangled in secondary crashes. The collision occurred around 8 a.m., prompting MDTA Police to respond to the scene. The crash caused multiple injuries, with two individuals sustaining serious injuries and 11 others taken to local hospitals. Fortunately, none of the injuries are reported to be life-threatening.
Traffic Standstill Causes Commuters to Rethink Plans
As first responders worked diligently to clear the bridge of obstacles, drivers found themselves at a standstill, unable to proceed with their journeys. Michael Faidley, one of the stranded commuters, expressed the frustration shared by many: “We are not moving. No one is moving.” This unexpected pause in traffic disrupted various plans, with one individual, Jason Zitofsky, expressing concerns about missing a softball tournament in Salisbury. Kimberly Little, who had just returned from a trip, faced hours of waiting in traffic, prompting her to consider alternative transportation options like Uber.
“I left Chicago around 6:30 a.m. I landed in Baltimore about 9:30 a.m.,” explained Little. With her ride stuck on the other side of the bridge, she opted for an Uber, contemplating the cost as she awaited her journey to resume. The traffic gridlock impacted not only daily commuters but also travelers in transit, emphasizing the widespread inconvenience caused by the incident.
Efforts to Clear Bridge and Reopen Lanes as Investigation Underway
The westbound section of the US-50 Bay Bridge eventually reopened around 1:50 p.m., alleviating the extensive traffic congestion. During the closure, traffic on the eastbound portion alternated directions to facilitate movement. The Bay Bridge, known for its scenic beauty, serves as a crucial link connecting the Eastern Shore of Maryland with major cities like Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis.
The MDTA has launched an investigation into the crash and urged anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward with information. The aftermath of this major pileup serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that can disrupt the flow of daily life and travel on iconic roadways.