A multi-vehicle pileup, caused by a motorist’s vehicle losing power, made traffic come to a standstill on the Pennsylvania Turnpike I -276 Monday night just as rush hour was at its peak.
The accident on I-276 between Neshaminy Falls and I-276 Milepost 356 occurred approximately 6:45 p.m.
A woman’s vehicle died and as she pulled off onto the shoulder two tractor-trailers, one behind the disabled vehicle didn’t have enough time and distance to come to a full stop thus striking her vehicle.
Credit: Motorcycle Joe
The second trailer slammed into the back of the leading 18-wheeler crushing its back door. The first trailer’s cargo spilt onto the highway, causing several other vehicles to strike each other and causing minor damages to each of those vehicles.
Credit: Motorcycle Joe
The stranded female motorist told witnesses she was ok and unharmed.
The eastbound lane was immediately shutdown by Pennsylvania State Police Troopers out of the King of Prussia Barracks, officials said.
The shutdown lasted for about two hours, Lower Bucks Source tipsters said.
Some motorists were seen driving onto the shoulder, turning their vehicles west and trying to leave the turnpike that way as others made use of the time in other ways such as breaking out the acoustic guitar for an impromptu “highway jam.”
The accident happened about five-miles outside of the Levittown-Bristol exit. Traffic started moving, according to witnesses on scene, at about 8:45 p.m.
State Police officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment and information Tuesday.
Credit: Motorcycle Joe
Credit: Motorcycle Joe
Credit: Motorcycle Joe