Albany, NY (March 3, 2026) – On Tuesday, March 3, a crash led to the closure of the right shoulder of Interstate 787 northbound, near Exit 2. The incident occurred around 11:12 a.m., near the Port of Albany.
Emergency units responded to the scene and worked to manage traffic as the shoulder remained closed. Officials have not released details about the extent of the injuries suffered by those involved.
Drivers experienced minor delays while crews cleared the area and assessed the situation. The crash happened during mid-morning traffic, which increased congestion along the northbound lanes.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our thoughts are with those involved.
Why Shoulder Closures on Highways Can Impact Traffic Flow in Albany
When a crash occurs on a highway shoulder, it can still disrupt traffic even if travel lanes remain open. Emergency vehicles, disabled cars, and debris often require extra space, which may cause drivers to slow down or merge unexpectedly.
On busy routes such as Interstate 787, even partial closures can create backups during peak travel hours. Drivers approaching the scene may change lanes quickly, increasing the risk of secondary accidents. Traffic congestion can also extend beyond the immediate area of the crash.
Highway shoulders are designed to provide space for emergencies and disabled vehicles. When that space is blocked, it limits options for drivers who may need to pull over. To lower the risk of further incidents in these situations, remember to stay alert, reduce speed, and maintain a safe following distance.
