Crash on NJ Route 3 Injures Motorists, Contributes to Regional Traffic Congestion

Afternoon accident on westbound NJ 3 closes multiple lanes as separate construction and delays slow travel across North Jersey

A crash with reported injuries occurred early Tuesday afternoon on the westbound side of NJ Route 3 just east of Main Avenue in Clifton, resulting in the closure of two out of three travel lanes and the right shoulder. The incident was reported at approximately 12:46 p.m., leading to significant traffic delays in the immediate area.

Emergency services responded to the scene to assist the injured, although the exact number and condition of those involved have not been disclosed as of publication time. Motorists traveling westbound on Route 3 are advised to use caution and consider alternate routes while crews work to clear the scene and restore traffic flow.

The crash contributes to a broader pattern of traffic delays and lane restrictions across North Jersey on Tuesday, due to both unplanned incidents and scheduled construction projects:

• On the US 1&9 Truck Route, westbound traffic is delayed from south of NJ 440 in Jersey City to the Passaic River Drawbridge in Newark.

• NJ Route 21 northbound is experiencing congestion from Ackerman Avenue (Exit 13) to US 46 (Exit 14) in Clifton.

• Delays are also reported on NJ 17 northbound between I-80 in Lodi and Passaic Street in Rochelle Park Township.

Meanwhile, significant ongoing construction continues to impact major thoroughfares:

• George Washington Bridge: Both upper and lower eastbound levels have lane closures extending until 4:30 p.m.

• New Jersey Turnpike’s Hudson County Extension eastbound near Jersey City is reduced by one lane due to roadwork.

• I-78 eastbound from Summit to Springfield Township has shoulder closures in effect until 3:00 p.m.

• Multiple work zones remain active on US Route 46, NJ 23, I-80, and other arterial highways, contributing to regional slowdowns.

Travelers throughout the Morristown region and across North Jersey are advised to monitor traffic updates, obey detour signage, and allow for additional travel time as these disruptions persist through the afternoon and into the evening commute.