A large crane overturned in a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 37 Southbound Friday evening, forcing authorities to close most of the highway and creating significant traffic delays.
Police responded to the crash in the 12700 to 12800 block of I-37 Southbound. The incident involved one large commercial truck carrying or operating the crane. No other vehicles were reported to be involved.
Emergency crews quickly secured the area and began the difficult process of clearing the overturned equipment. Initially, only the far-left lane remained open, leaving southbound traffic with limited space to pass the crash scene.
I-37 Southbound Traffic Severely Restricted
The overturned crane created a major obstruction across the southbound lanes. Because of the vehicle’s size and weight, removing it required more time and specialized equipment than crews would typically need for a passenger vehicle crash.
Authorities restricted traffic while police, transportation personnel, and emergency responders worked at the scene. Officials did not provide an exact reopening time. However, transportation authorities estimated that the highway could remain closed for approximately another hour while crews continued clearing the roadway.
That estimate may change depending on recovery conditions. Large commercial vehicle crashes often require several steps, including stabilizing the vehicle, checking for spilled materials, removing damaged equipment, and inspecting the roadway before traffic can safely resume.
Drivers should prepare for delays even after crews reopen the affected lanes. Traffic backups may take additional time to clear, particularly during a busy Friday evening travel period.
Motorists Urged to Find Alternate Routes
Officials encouraged motorists to avoid the affected section of I-37 Southbound whenever possible. Drivers who have not yet entered the area should choose an alternate route instead of adding to the growing congestion.
Those already approaching the crash should reduce their speed, watch for changing lane patterns, and follow directions from police or traffic-control crews. Sudden stops are likely as vehicles merge into the limited available space.
Motorists should also avoid distracted driving while passing the scene. Looking at the overturned crane, recording video, or using a phone can increase the risk of a secondary collision. Maintaining a safe following distance will give drivers more time to respond if traffic stops unexpectedly.
Navigation applications may suggest detours, but drivers should confirm that those routes are suitable before leaving the highway. Smaller roads near the interstate could also become congested as more motorists attempt to bypass the closure.
Cause of Crane Crash Remains Unknown
Investigators have not released information about what caused the large truck to overturn. It remains unclear whether speed, road conditions, a mechanical problem, cargo movement, or another factor contributed to the crash.
Authorities also have not confirmed whether anyone suffered injuries. Emergency responders remained at the site as recovery operations continued, but no information about the driver’s condition was immediately available.
Because the investigation is still active, officials may need additional time to examine the vehicle and gather evidence. Investigators could review roadway conditions, vehicle damage, and other available information to determine what happened before the crane overturned.
Police have not reported the involvement of any additional vehicles. Based on the available information, authorities are treating the incident as a single-vehicle crash.
Cleanup Effort Could Affect Evening Travel
Clearing an overturned crane presents challenges beyond moving the truck itself. Recovery teams must ensure that the heavy machinery remains stable throughout the operation. They may also need to reposition or secure parts of the crane before lifting the vehicle.
Crews must then check the travel lanes for debris, vehicle fluids, or pavement damage. These safety inspections help prevent another incident after the roadway reopens.
As a result, lane availability could change with little notice. Officials may temporarily stop all southbound traffic while recovery vehicles reposition equipment or remove the crane. Drivers should remain patient and avoid attempting unsafe maneuvers around blocked lanes.
Safety Remains the Priority
Although the closure is disruptive, restricting access allows crews to complete the recovery operation safely. Passing too close to heavy equipment can place motorists and roadside workers at risk.
Drivers traveling through the area should obey posted warnings, move away from workers when possible, and avoid using the shoulder to bypass traffic. Emergency and recovery vehicles need clear access to the crash scene.
Motorists planning to use I-37 Southbound should check current traffic conditions before leaving. Allowing extra travel time and selecting another route may help reduce delays.
The crash remains under investigation, and reopening plans may change as cleanup continues. Authorities are expected to provide further information if they confirm injuries, identify a cause or revise the estimated closure period.