Palmyra Township, OH (May 16, 2026) – Three people were hospitalized on Friday afternoon, following a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 76 westbound in Palmyra Township.
According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred shortly after 2 p.m. on May 15 in a construction zone about a mile west of the Mahoning County line. Investigators said a 32-year-old Wadsworth man failed to slow down in the reduced-speed area and struck the rear of another vehicle. That impact then pushed the vehicle into a second car ahead of it.
Officials said the construction zone speed limit had been reduced to 45 mph. Preliminary findings indicate the at-fault driver may have been traveling near the normal 70 mph highway speed limit before the crash.
A 78-year-old man and woman from Lake Milton, who were traveling in one of the struck vehicles, were transported to a hospital for treatment. Authorities did not immediately release the extent of their injuries. A 34-year-old Newton Falls man was also taken to a hospital as a precaution. Two additional people, including the Wadsworth driver, were evaluated at the scene but were not transported.
Authorities continue to review the crash and gather additional details.
We are hoping those injured make a full and quick recovery.
Why Construction Zone Crashes Happen
Construction zone crashes often occur when drivers fail to adjust to reduced speeds or changing traffic patterns. Narrow lanes, slowed traffic, and sudden stops can increase the risk of rear-end collisions on busy highways.
Investigators usually review braking distance, traffic flow, and driver attention in these cases. Reduced speed limits are put in place to allow motorists more time to react to congestion and roadway changes.
Emergency response in work zones can also take longer due to limited space for vehicles and equipment. Temporary lane closures are common while crews assist injured people and remove damaged vehicles from the roadway.
