Berlin, NY (May 30, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash caused significant disruption early Friday morning in Berlin, closing all lanes of Route 22 between Airport Road and Sandbank Road around 7:00 a.m. Emergency crews from the Berlin Fire Department responded to the scene near Berlin Middle/High School, where three people were reported injured and transported to a local hospital.
The Berlin Fire Department’s assistant chief confirmed the call came in around 7:10 a.m. Although the specific nature of the injuries was not disclosed, all three individuals were taken for further medical evaluation. Their conditions have not yet been released.
As a result of the crash and emergency response, the road remained closed for a period but has since been reopened to traffic. The crash occurred directly in front of the Berlin Middle/High School, leading to the cancellation of a previously scheduled “prom promise” mock accident drill that was planned for 9:15 a.m. The school district confirmed that no students were involved in the real accident.
Both the New York State Police and the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office have been contacted for additional details, and an investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.
We send our thoughts to the individuals injured in this crash and wish them a full recovery.
Crash Risks on School-Zone Corridors in Upstate New York
Crashes near school zones, like the one that occurred Friday morning on Route 22 in Berlin, highlight the importance of heightened caution in areas with pedestrian activity, student drop-offs, and fluctuating traffic volumes. Even early morning hours can present risk, particularly on rural state highways where speed limits may be higher and visibility more limited.
Although no students were involved in this incident, the location—directly in front of a school—adds urgency to the ongoing effort to improve safety on roads traveled daily by buses, faculty, and families. Temporary lane closures, event cancellations, and emergency responses in such areas also present added logistical and emotional strain for schools and communities.
The cause of Friday’s crash remains under investigation, but common contributors in similar incidents include distracted driving, failure to yield, and reduced reaction time due to morning sun glare or commuter rush conditions. Proactive driving habits, including slowing down near schools and maintaining safe following distances, are essential for preventing future tragedies.
For those injured in accidents like this, recovery can extend far beyond the initial hospital visit. Victims may face ongoing rehabilitation, missed work, emotional trauma, and the challenge of coordinating insurance claims or legal matters.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a crash near a school or public facility, Local Accident Reports is here to help. We connect victims with trusted medical providers, legal advocates, and recovery resources to ease the burdens of post-accident care. Contact us today and let us guide you through your next steps with clarity and compassion.
