495 Accident Today – Tractor-Trailer Jackknifes and Spills Fuel on I-495 in Montgomery County
Traffic on the Inner Loop of I-495 in Montgomery County, Maryland, was heavily disrupted early Saturday morning, October 3, 2026, after a tractor-trailer jackknifed and spilled fuel onto the interstate.
The crash occurred on the Inner Loop between Georgia Avenue and Colesville Road near Sligo Creek, creating significant congestion along one of the region’s busiest commuter routes.
According to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue officials, the tractor-trailer jackknifed during the collision, causing fuel to spill onto the roadway. Emergency crews responded as traffic quickly began backing up behind the crash.
Fuel Spill Complicates Crash Response
The fuel spill required additional emergency measures, with hazardous-materials personnel responding to the scene to address the spilled fuel and help make the roadway safe.
Multiple lanes were blocked while emergency responders and cleanup crews worked. Early reports indicated that traffic backups extended for more than two miles, causing substantial delays for motorists traveling through Montgomery County.
Drivers approaching the affected section of the Beltway were urged to slow down, remain alert around emergency vehicles, and prepare for significant delays.
The disabled tractor-trailer, fuel spill, and lane restrictions combined to create difficult conditions on the Inner Loop. Traffic cameras showed extensive backups while crews worked to clean the roadway and remove the commercial vehicle.
Injuries and Cause Under Investigation
Authorities had not initially released complete information about the number of vehicles involved or whether anyone was injured.
The circumstances that caused the tractor-trailer to jackknife also remained under investigation. Officials are expected to provide additional information as the crash response progresses.
The incident demonstrates how a commercial-vehicle collision can quickly affect traffic across a major interstate, particularly when spilled fuel creates additional safety concerns and requires specialized cleanup.
Major Delays on I-495
The Inner Loop of I-495 is a major transportation route through Montgomery County, and the Saturday morning crash caused considerable disruption for drivers.
Motorists were advised to allow extra time for their trips and exercise caution near the crash scene. Emergency and cleanup crews continued working to contain the fuel spill, remove the disabled tractor-trailer, and reopen restricted lanes.
The response and investigation remained ongoing as authorities worked to fully clear the area and restore normal traffic conditions. Further information about possible injuries and the circumstances surrounding the jackknife may be released as officials continue their investigation.
