Commuters in Haverhill faced delays this morning after a string of disabled vehicles led to the closure of the right lane on I-495 Northbound at MM 105.4. MassDOT reported the incident on X, warning drivers to expect increased traffic and advising them to seek alternate routes.

 

Disabled Vehicles in #Haverhill on I-495-NB at MM 105.4. Right lane closed.

— Mass. Transportation (@MassDOT) May 9, 2024

 

The lane closure quickly caused a backlog of traffic, with many commuters taking to social media to voice their frustrations. The transportation authority was on the scene, working swiftly to clear the disabled vehicles and restore normal traffic flow, but not before the morning rush hour peaked, leading to significant delays. Details on the cause of the disabled vehicles were not immediately available.

Motorists heeded the warning provided by MassDOT to avoid the area if possible. Local police departments also chimed in, assisting with traffic management and urging drivers to remain patient and cautious when passing through the affected stretch of highway.

While the right lane was eventually reopened, the traffic impact continued to be felt throughout the morning. The authorities have yet to provide an exact time for when the situation was fully resolved, but they encouraged drivers to continue checking traffic updates and plan their afternoon commutes accordingly. In the aftermath, MassDOT is expected to thoroughly investigate the incident to prevent such disruptions from hampering future travel.