A section of M-11 in the Novgorod region, where a mass accident involved more than 40 vehicles, has been reopened to traffic. The highway operator reported that the stretch is now passable, with the flow redirected to ensure safety and smooth movement for all motorists. Traffic authorities noted that while the road is open, the segment where the crash occurred is being used in the opposite directional flow to manage the site and prevent a bottleneck. This arrangement helps to keep the main artery accessible while investigators and responders continue their work.
One lane is designated for traffic toward St. Petersburg, and the opposing lane for traffic toward Moscow. This setup is intended to restore full service by gradually increasing capacity as the clearance operation progresses and the site is stabilized. The transition to normal operation is expected to continue throughout the night, with drivers advised to exercise caution, reduce speed, and follow temporary signs and the directions of traffic controllers on site.
In standard conditions, the system of road safety and traffic management aims to minimize disruption after a major collision. The reopening of the section marks a critical step in restoring mobility for residents and travelers who rely on M-11 to connect major cities, commercial hubs, and regional communities. Authorities emphasized that the priority remains the safety of those on the road, including the responders, investigators, and drivers who must navigate a changed traffic pattern while the aftermath is being resolved.
The accident occurred on February 26 in the Malovishersky district along the 503rd kilometer of M-11. Initial reports indicated a high-impact collision involving a large number of vehicles. Updated figures show that 41 cars were involved in the incident. Tragically, one person lost life, and five others were hospitalized, among them four children and one adult woman. Emergency teams rushed to the scene to provide medical care, with priority given to those in critical condition and to ensuring that casualties received timely transport to nearby medical facilities capable of delivering advanced treatment.
Immediately after the collision, responders established a perimeter to secure the area, conduct triage, and prevent secondary incidents. Investigators began collecting evidence, documenting skid marks, vehicle positions, and eyewitness accounts to reconstruct the sequence of events. The probing process is essential to determine potential factors such as weather conditions, road surface state, driver behavior, and mechanical issues that may have contributed to the pileup. The case has prompted prosecutors to open a criminal inquiry to examine whether any causal negligence or violations of traffic regulations played a role in the tragedy.
Authorities reiterated that traffic control measures were put in place promptly and that the on-site response included securing the scene, clearing debris, and guiding traffic through a controlled detour. The incident highlighted the importance of preparedness for large-scale crashes on busy corridors, where high speeds, heavy vehicle loads, and limited visibility can rapidly escalate risks. Road safety officials will review current protocols, assess whether additional signage or temporary barriers could have reduced exposure to danger, and consider improvements in incident notification times and emergency access routes for future incidents.
Travelers along M-11 were advised to monitor official updates for the latest guidance on lanes, speed restrictions, and expected reopening times. While the site is being stabilized, drivers should stay alert for ongoing work zones, obey temporary traffic patterns, and maintain a safe following distance. The collaboration between police, rescue services, and road management authorities demonstrates a coordinated approach to restoring mobility while ensuring the safety of all participants on the highway. Continued vigilance and clear communication to the traveling public will remain essential as crews finalize the investigation and confirm full restoration of normal traffic flow in the days ahead.
The ongoing investigation is proceeding with the aim of clarifying all contributing factors. Authorities affirmed their commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing that findings will be shared with the public in due course through official channels. In the meantime, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities on high-speed corridors and the critical importance of adhering to traffic laws, maintaining safe speeds, and staying focused on the road under changing conditions. Updated information will be provided as the work advances and more details become available to ensure that residents and travelers stay well-informed about any further developments.