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Wilkes-Barre Today
By the People, for the People
Police Urge Drivers to Follow Traffic Laws After Crashes
Two back-to-back crashes in Wilkes-Barre Twp. prompt safety reminder from authorities.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:06am
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Police in Wilkes-Barre Twp., Pennsylvania responded to a pair of crashes on Monday night that resulted in serious injuries. The initial crash involved vehicles stopped in the lane of travel, and when one driver got out of their car, they were struck by an oncoming truck whose driver was distracted by a cellphone. Police are now reminding drivers of their legal obligations following crashes, including moving vehicles off the road and avoiding cellphone use while driving.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the importance of following traffic laws and safety protocols, especially in the aftermath of a collision. Leaving vehicles in the road can lead to secondary crashes and further injuries, while distracted driving continues to be a major public safety concern.
The details
According to police, the initial crash occurred around 10:40 p.m. on Highland Park Boulevard. The involved vehicles had stopped in the lane of travel, and when one driver got out of their car, they were struck by an oncoming truck whose driver was distracted by a cellphone. The victim sustained serious injuries in the crash. Police are now reminding drivers that they are legally required to move their vehicles from the lanes of travel following crashes that do not involve injuries, in order to allow investigators to document the scene and for drivers to exchange information.
- The initial crash occurred around 10:40 p.m. on Monday, March 31, 2026.
- A new Pennsylvania law making it illegal to hold a cellphone while driving will take effect on June 5, 2026.
The players
Wilkes-Barre Twp. Police
The local law enforcement agency that responded to the crashes and issued the traffic safety reminder.
What they’re saying
“Drivers are required by law to move their vehicles from the lanes of travel following crashes that do not involve any injuries. Investigators do not need to see the positioning of the vehicles on the roadway.”
— Wilkes-Barre Twp. Police
“Holding a cellphone while driving will become a primary violation in Pennsylvania with a new law taking effect June 5.”
— Wilkes-Barre Twp. Police
What’s next
The new Pennsylvania law prohibiting holding a cellphone while driving will go into effect on June 5, 2026, which may lead to increased enforcement and public awareness campaigns around distracted driving.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a reminder for all drivers to be vigilant about following traffic laws and safety protocols, especially in the aftermath of a collision. Leaving vehicles in the road can lead to secondary crashes and further injuries, while distracted driving continues to be a major public safety concern that requires ongoing education and enforcement efforts.
