Guardrail Across I-81 Causes Several Crashes Near Cortland, New York

This winter's weather has been quite a challenge to Central New York and the Southern Tier, with plenty of snow, cold temperatures, and freezing conditions.

In addition to the what seems like an endless task of shoveling/plowing snow, this winter has seen its fair share of weather-related crashes and accidents.

Read More: New York State Trooper Injured In An SUV Crash (Video)

Another weather-related crash was reported recently from the Homer, New York State Police barracks. According to the report, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, a trooper from Homer responded to a report of multiple vehicles involved in a crash on Interstate 81 northbound near Exit 52 in Cortland around 6 a.m.

A New York State Police investigation noted that at some point that morning, a vehicle struck a guardrail on Interstate 81 northbound, which caused a portion of the guardrail to lie across the roadway.

According to the report, the crash was not reported, and the operator of the vehicle that struck the guardrail didn't remain on the scene.

As a result, four vehicles traveling north came upon the guardrail lying in the roadway and struck it. All four vehicles sustained damage. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported. New York State Police believe that the weather was believed to be a contributing factor.

Interstate 81 north near exit 50 (Polkville/McGraw) was shut down for a time. New York State troopers from the Homer and Marathon barracks, along with members of the Department of Transportation, assisted with lane closures.

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