Dallas, Texas, January 7, 2026
A critical traffic incident occurred on northbound I-35E near Justin Road when an 18-wheeler crashed, resulting in substantial lane closures. Emergency crews worked for two hours to extinguish a fire caused by the ruptured fuel tank. As of 7 a.m., only the left lane remains open for traffic, prompting motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid congestion as delays extend toward Fox Avenue.
Dallas Traffic Disruption: I-35E Collision Causes Northbound Lane Closures
Dallas, Texas – A major traffic disruption occurred on northbound I-35E near Justin Road following a crash involving an 18-wheeler. The incident took place early Wednesday morning and has resulted in substantial lane closures and traffic delays for commuters. Fortunately, the driver of the truck escaped unharmed, but the vehicle’s fuel tank ruptured upon impact with a retaining wall, leading to a significant fire.
Emergency crews were quick to respond, battling the flames and clearing debris for over two hours, but as of 7 a.m., northbound traffic remains substantially hindered with only the left lane open for passage. Motorists are strongly advised to consider alternate routes to alleviate the congestion expected in this area.
Incident Specifics
The crash transpired in the northbound lanes of I-35E near Justin Road. The driver’s fortunate escape from the blazing vehicle contrasts sharply with the challenges ahead for commuters. With multiple northbound lanes now closed and cleanup efforts underway, only the left lane remains available for travel. Hazmat crews have also been deployed to manage potential environmental hazards arising from the accident.
Traffic Impact and Alternatives
The incident has led to severe traffic congestion on northbound I-35E, with delays reported extending towards the Fox Avenue area. Given that two right lanes and the Garden Ridge exit are closed due to debris, motorists are recommended to exit at Fox Avenue and navigate via Garden Ridge Road to rejoin I-35E north of the scene of the accident. This detour could significantly reduce travel time for those in the vicinity.
Background on I-35E
Interstate 35E serves as a critical artery connecting key cities within Texas, notably Dallas and Denton. Known for heavy traffic, particularly during peak travel times, I-35E has been the site of various incidents in the past. Previous occurrences have included significant crashes that resulted in lengthy lane closures, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance from area drivers.
Safety Guidelines for Commuters
As cleanup and investigations continue, it remains imperative for drivers to stay aware of evolving road conditions. Exercising caution near accident scenes is crucial, particularly with emergency personnel working in the area. Motorists should adhere to all posted signs and detour instructions to ensure safe passage for all road users.
Similar Recent Incidents
- Southbound I-35E Closure in Denton County: A fire involving another 18-wheeler earlier on the same day led to closures on southbound lanes but had been reopened by 7 a.m. ([cbsnews.com])
- Crash on I-35E in Farmers Branch: A collision earlier this week prompted lane closures and severe traffic jams, which were cleared shortly thereafter. ([dallasnews.com])
- Fatal Multivehicle Crash on I-35W in Argyle: A tragic incident that involved multiple vehicles led to lengthy road closures, further underscoring safety concerns on major highways. ([dallasnews.com])
Conclusion
The crash and fire on I-35E near Justin Road have resulted in significant traffic delays for commuters. While some lanes have been reopened, it is essential for drivers to stay informed and utilize alternative routes to avoid contributing to the ongoing traffic snarls. Continued efforts from local authorities are focused on clearing the scene and restoring normal traffic conditions, and we encourage responsible driving as conditions evolve.
FAQ
What caused the I-35E crash near Justin Road?
The crash occurred when an 18-wheeler collided with an outside retaining wall, causing its gas tank to rupture and ignite. The driver was able to exit the vehicle safely and was not injured.
Are all lanes of I-35E northbound closed?
No, only the right lanes are closed. As of 7 a.m., only the left lane remains open. The right lanes are closed due to debris and the ongoing cleanup efforts.
How long will the road closures last?
The cleanup and investigation are ongoing, and it may take several hours before all lanes are fully reopened. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes to avoid significant delays.
What alternative routes can drivers take?
Motorists can exit at Fox Avenue and proceed via Garden Ridge Road to re-enter I-35E north of the accident site. This detour is recommended to avoid the traffic backups caused by the incident.
Have there been similar incidents on I-35E recently?
Yes, there have been previous incidents on I-35E, including a fatal multivehicle crash in Argyle that closed lanes for hours. Drivers should always stay informed about current traffic conditions and plan their routes accordingly.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | I-35E northbound near Justin Road, Dallas, Texas |
| Time of Incident | Early Wednesday morning, January 7, 2026 |
| Cause | 18-wheeler collision with retaining wall, gas tank rupture, and fire |
| Driver’s Condition | Uninjured, safely exited the vehicle |
| Impact on Traffic | Multiple northbound lanes closed, significant delays; southbound lanes reopened by 7 a.m. |
| Alternative Routes | Exit at Fox Avenue, proceed via Garden Ridge Road to re-enter I-35E north of the accident site |
| Cleanup and Investigation | Ongoing; full lane reopening may take several hours |
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