Chaos on I-91: Multi-Vehicle Crash Shuts Down West Springfield Highway

Early Morning Collision Causes Major Delays, Injuries Reported

A serious multi-vehicle crash brought traffic to a standstill on I-91 in West Springfield early Friday morning, leaving emergency crews scrambling to clear the scene. The collision, which involved at least three vehicles, occurred just before dawn near Exit 13, shutting down multiple lanes during peak commute hours.

What We Know So Far:

• Location: I-91 Southbound near Exit 13 (Riverdale Street)
• Time of Incident: Approximately 5:15 AM Friday
• Vehicles Involved: Two passenger cars and one commercial truck
• Injuries: At least two people transported to Baystate Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries
• Road Conditions: Patchy fog reported in the area at time of crash

Emergency Response and Traffic Impact

Massachusetts State Police and local fire departments responded quickly to the chaotic scene. Crews worked tirelessly to:

1. Extract injured passengers from damaged vehicles
2. Prevent potential fuel leaks from causing further hazards
3. Direct traffic as all southbound lanes were temporarily closed

The highway remained partially blocked for nearly three hours as investigators documented the scene and wreckers cleared debris. Significant delays stretched back to the North End Bridge, with many commuters forced to seek alternate routes.

Potential Causes Under Investigation

While officials haven't released an official cause, early reports suggest multiple factors may have contributed:

• Low visibility due to morning fog
• Possible speeding in the construction zone
• Distracted driving (cell phone use being investigated)

What Do You Think?

• Should Massachusetts implement stricter penalties for driving in hazardous conditions?
• Are current highway construction zone speed limits adequate for safety?
• Would mandatory fog light requirements for all vehicles prevent these types of accidents?
• Is the state doing enough to warn drivers about changing road conditions?
• Should commercial truck traffic be restricted during peak commute hours?