Berks County, PA (March 29, 2026) – A significant traffic collision forced the closure of all westbound lanes on Route 422 on Sunday, causing major delays near the Penn Avenue exit.
The crash brought traffic to a standstill as emergency crews responded to the scene on Route 422 West. According to initial reports, the incident occurred near the heavily traveled Penn Avenue interchange, a critical artery for local commuters. The severity of the wreckage prompted authorities to shut down all westbound lanes entirely, ensuring first responders could safely secure the area and assess those involved without the danger of passing vehicles.
Troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police and local emergency medical services were dispatched to manage the chaotic scene. Highway crews were also reportedly called in to assist with diverting the heavy backlog of traffic away from the westbound lanes and onto alternate local routes to relieve the congestion.
At this time, officials have not released specific details regarding the exact number of vehicles involved, the sequence of events that triggered the crash, or the conditions of the motorists and passengers. The roadway remained closed for an extended period as towing crews worked to clear the damaged vehicles and scattered debris. Accident reconstruction investigators are likely evaluating factors such as vehicle speed, sudden braking, and potential distractions. The official investigation remains active and ongoing.
Expressway Collision Liability in Pennsylvania
Collisions on high-speed expressways like Route 422 often present significant legal and logistical challenges, especially when unexpected lane closures and rapid decelerations lead to secondary chain-reaction crashes. Under Pennsylvania law, determining liability requires a careful analysis of each driver’s actions leading up to the point of impact. Pennsylvania operates under a choice no-fault insurance system, meaning injured motorists must first utilize their own First Party Benefits (FPB) to cover initial medical treatments and hospital bills, regardless of who is ultimately deemed responsible for the collision. However, when serious or permanent injuries occur, victims often have the right to pursue a third-party liability claim against the at-fault driver to recover damages that exceed their personal policy limits.
Navigating these claims requires a clear understanding of Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence statute. Under this rule, injury victims can still recover financial compensation for lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering, provided their share of the blame does not exceed 50 percent. Because crucial evidence such as traffic camera footage, electronic data recorder information, and witness statements can disappear quickly after a scene is cleared, swift legal action is highly recommended. Working alongside an experienced Pennsylvania car accident lawyer ensures that victims have an advocate to negotiate with insurance companies and file claims well within the state’s strict two-year statute of limitations.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Berks County, or if you have questions about your rights following a serious collision in northern Pennsylvania, contact Stanley Law Offices at 888-997-3889 for a free, private consultation.
