ANNAPOLIS, Md. — A significant chain-reaction crash occurred on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge early Saturday morning, involving dozens of vehicles, as reported by the Maryland Transportation Authority police. The incident resulted in multiple crashes on the bridge, triggering emergency response from the authorities and local volunteer firefighters.
At approximately 8 a.m., MDTA police and Kent Island volunteer firefighters responded to a 23-car chain-crash on the westbound span of the bridge. The situation was further complicated by an additional 20 vehicles that were believed to be involved in a series of other crashes. As a result, all three westbound traffic lanes were closed, and east- and westbound traffic had to alternate, taking turns on the eastbound span of the bridge. The westbound span was finally reopened to traffic around 1:50 p.m.
The aftermath of the crashes led to the hospitalization of two individuals with serious injuries, while 11 others were also taken to hospitals. Fortunately, none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening, according to the police. The exact cause of the crashes remains under investigation, and anyone who witnessed the incidents is encouraged to call MDTA police at 443-454-8703.
The chaotic scene on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of multi-vehicle accidents on major roadways. It also highlights the importance of prompt response and coordination between law enforcement and emergency personnel in managing such incidents.
As the investigation into the causes of the crashes continues, authorities will be looking into factors such as road conditions, driver behavior, and visibility at the time of the accidents. The findings of the investigation could potentially lead to improvements in safety measures and traffic management on the bridge to prevent similar incidents in the future.