Greenwich Township, PA (January 18, 2026) – A major multi-vehicle crash caused an hours-long shutdown on Saturday, January 17, on Interstate 78 in Berks County. The crash happened in the westbound lanes near mile marker 39.1 in Greenwich Township as snow moved through the area and made the roadway dangerous.
Pennsylvania State Police said a total of 12 vehicles were involved in the pileup, including four commercial vehicles and eight passenger vehicles. Initial emergency dispatches reported a multi-vehicle crash on the interstate, and emergency units responded to assess the scene and assist those involved.
Troopers said the weather created issues across Berks County, with drivers dealing with slippery roads and limited sight distance. Emergency responders faced challenges while moving through the area and determining the full scope of the crash.
Both westbound lanes of I-78 remained closed for several hours as crews worked in the area. Pennsylvania State Police confirmed that the lanes were reopened by 4:00 p.m. once vehicles were cleared and the scene was made safe for drivers.
At this time, authorities have not shared the extent of injuries from the crash. The cause of the pileup has not been confirmed, but officials noted that the snow created hazardous driving conditions throughout the morning.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and what led to the chain reaction on the interstate.
Our thoughts remain with everyone involved as they recover from their injuries.
What happens if I crash in the snow in Pennsylvania?
If you crash in the snow in Pennsylvania, your priority is to get medical help and move to a safe spot if you can do so without risking further harm. Winter crashes often happen quickly, and even minor impacts can cause injuries that show up later. Calling for help and getting checked out can also create helpful medical records for follow-up care.
Snowy road conditions can make multi-vehicle crashes more likely, especially on highways with fast-moving traffic. When visibility drops and roads turn slick, drivers may not have enough space to stop safely. A single slide or sudden slowdown can lead to a chain reaction involving several vehicles.
Injuries from snow-related crashes can include whiplash, head injuries, and back pain. Some people feel fine at first but develop soreness or stiffness later that day. Medical visits help confirm what happened physically and give doctors a chance to recommend treatment early.
A personal injury lawyer can help by reviewing medical records, insurance information, and available crash documentation. Legal guidance can clarify what options may be available and what types of compensation may apply depending on the situation. Keeping bills, reports, and treatment notes organized can also make the process easier to manage.
At Rand Spear The Accident Lawyer, we recognize the challenges that arise after a serious crash. Our team is committed to standing by victims and their families, providing the legal support needed to move forward. We represent clients throughout Pennsylvania.
Call Rand Spear The Accident Lawyer today at 1-800-905-3425 to speak directly with our car accident lawyer. We are here to explain your options, protect your rights, and help you take the next steps toward recovery. You do not have to face this process alone.
Note: Our team of writers relies on various secondary sources to create this post, including local and state media outlets, police incident reports, social media platforms, and eyewitness accounts of serious accidents in Pennsylvania. If you notice any inaccuracies, please contact Rand Spear, The Accident Lawyer, immediately so we can correct the information and ensure the post reflects the most accurate details. Posts can also be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The photos used in this post were not taken at the accident scene. All information in this post is informational and is not intended to be considered legal or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business.
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