What Happened in the Truck Crash
On the morning of August 27th, KXII reported a truck crash on I-35 northbound at mile marker 31 in Ardmore, Oklahoma. A truck driver, not aware that his trailer was lifting, hit an overhead sign. This caused the trailer to break away from the truck, leading to major traffic delays.
Accident Details
The truck driver was driving north on I-35 when the trailer started to rise. It seems the driver did not notice the trailer was up until it hit an overhead sign. The collision was strong enough to detach the trailer from the truck. This spread debris on the road and blocked the outside lane.
Traffic and Lane Closures
Due to the accident, traffic was delayed for several hours. Emergency crews and police arrived quickly. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) shut down the outside lane of I-35 northbound to keep everyone safe and to clear the mess. Traffic was rerouted, causing delays for drivers. Some drivers were stuck in traffic for up to an hour.
The cleanup took several hours. ODOT crews worked hard to remove the trailer and clear the debris. The lane was reopened in the early afternoon, but the backup affected many drivers.
Investigation Underway
Officials are looking into why the trailer started to rise while the truck was moving.
Authorities have not yet decided if any fines or penalties will be issued. They are reviewing the truck and trailer’s maintenance records to understand the cause of the accident.
Safety Reminders to Avoid a Truck Crash
This accident shows how important it is for truck drivers and companies to keep their vehicles in good condition. Drivers should always make sure trailers are secure and that all systems are working correctly. Regular checks can help avoid accidents like this one.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) advises drivers to perform routine inspections before each trip. This includes checking tires, brakes, lights, and hydraulic systems. By following these steps, drivers can help prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures.