SCHOHARIE, N.Y. — A tractor-trailer crash that shut down eastbound lanes of Interstate 88 on Wednesday was caused by a driver who failed to move over for a disabled truck, according to New York State Police.

The collision occurred around noon near mile marker 102.5, according to WRGB. Troopers say Eric W. Smith, 44, of Hartford, Connecticut, struck the rear of a disabled tractor-trailer that was partially in the right lane. The second truck was operated by William J. Truman, 67, of Mayfield.

Photo credit: news10

The impact caused a large spill across the roadway. Fire officials later determined the substance was a non-toxic leather dye made from titanium dioxide, according to the Central Bridge Fire Department. Crews said the dye coated the highway but posed no hazardous risk.

Both drivers suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene. Smith was issued a ticket for failing to move over.

The crash caused significant damage to both trucks, including a destroyed windshield, and resulted in the closure of two eastbound lanes near Exit 23. Traffic was blocked for hours as crews cleaned up the dye spill and cleared debris. The highway fully reopened shortly before 9 p.m., according to NEWS10.

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