Black ice on bridges and ramps caused a surge of traffic accidents throughout the Valley during the Monday morning commute. First responders described the treacherous surfaces as "a sheet of ice."

In Youngstown alone, police responded to more than 20 crashes, primarily on the freeway.

Expressway Closures and Pileup Details
The Himrod Avenue Expressway and the Madison Avenue Expressway were both temporarily closed while crews cleared vehicles and treated the roadways.

Authorities reported a multi-vehicle pileup involving a total of 21 vehicles on the Himrod Avenue Expressway. Initially, police reported two separate accidents involving 13 vehicles, including a flatbed carrying construction equipment.

As of 10 a.m., the Madison Avenue and Himrod Avenue expressways had reopened in both lanes for travel, according to police.

However, the I-680 southbound exit ramp for the Himrod Avenue Expressway (SR 62) remained closed as of 10 a.m. Crews expected the ramp to be shut down for at least a couple more hours to finish removing the 21 vehicles involved in the crash.

Crashes were also reported in Youngstown along the Williamson Avenue Exit on the Himrod Expressway, West Liberty at High Street, the Mahoning Avenue Bridge was closed near Glenwood Avenue, North Belle Vista and Midland Avenue, as well as the West River Crossing.

 

 

Just before 8 a.m., a multi-vehicle crash was reported on a ramp near MLK and Wirt. Street in Youngstown.

After 8 a.m., the Youngstown Fire Department was dispatched to a reported injury accident on Interstate 680 near Market Street.

 

Crash closes Mahoning Ave. Bridge near Mill Creek Park
Crash closes Mahoning Ave. Bridge near Mill Creek Park  

 

Around 8:30 a.m., police were called when a school bus tapped the back of a car near Ursuline High School. No one was hurt.

 

School bus hits back of car near Ursuline High School
School bus hits back of car near Ursuline High School  

 

A crash in Downtown Youngstown shut down the Southbound lanes of the Spring Common Bridge, also known as the "Mr. Peanut Bridge."

 

Vehicles from Spring Common Bridge collision pull off with YPD
Vehicles from Spring Common Bridge collision pull off with YPD  

 

Police in Austintown are investigating the report of a crash on the New Road Bridge over State Route 11.

Some injuries have been reported.

Authorities have informed ODOT about the road conditions.

 

South Av. Bridge, Youngstown, 8:30 a.m.
South Av. Bridge, Youngstown, 8:30 a.m.  

 

The Ohio Department of Transportation reports a truck crash on State Route 82, beyond the State Route 5/Elm Road interchange north of Warren. ODOT says as of 7 a.m., Route 82 westbound remained open, but drivers may encounter lane closures.

AAA provides several safety tips for drivers facing icy bridges:

Drive Slowly: Icy bridges can be particularly dangerous, so it's crucial to drive slowly to maintain control of your vehicle.

Increase Following Distance: When driving on icy roads, increase your following distance to eight to ten seconds to compensate for reduced traction.

Watch for Icy Surfaces: Icy surfaces can appear safe, but are often dangerous. Always be vigilant for icy patches on bridges and intersections.

Avoid Braking on Ice: If you're approaching an icy patch, brake during your approach to control the skid.

Stay in Your Vehicle: If you get stuck, stay inside your vehicle to provide shelter and allow emergency responders to locate you more easily.

 

 

These tips are essential for ensuring safety while driving on icy bridges and can help prevent accidents and reduce other hazards. Always stay informed about weather conditions and adjust your driving accordingly.