Overturned semi-trailer snarls I-70 traffic, driver unharmed

Video: Video: Semi overturns on I-70
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A semi-trailer overturned east of I-675 on I-70 early today, Dec. 10. Traffic was backed up, and Springfield Hazmat was caused to assist with a spill. One person was transported from the scene to Miami Valley Hospital. Staff photo by Marshall Gorby

By Valerie Lough, Staff Writer Updated 5:07 PM Thursday, December 10, 2009

ENON — An overturned semi-trailer shut traffic down for 90 minutes on eastbound Interstate 70 near Interstate 675 early Thursday, Dec. 10.

The driver, Michael Risner, 61, of Harrod, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated and released from Miami Valley Hospital, said Sgt. Yvonne Thorne of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Springfield Post.

Risner was eastbound on I-70, between the I-675 interchange and the Snider Road Bridge overpass about 6:45 a.m. when he over-corrected to avoid an abandoned van at the side of the road, said Thorne.

“He thought it was coming into his lane,” the trooper said.

The semi’s trailer grazed the left side of the van and took off a side mirror before it tumbled over, she said.

“The van traveled over 300 feet along the wall before it came to rest on all three lanes,” said Thorne.

Officials were able to clear one lane of traffic after about an hour and a half, but the other two lanes remained blocked for an additional two and a half hours, she said.

Risner was cited for failure to control.

No other injuries were reported and no other vehicles were involved, said Thorne.

Crews from the Clark County Hazardous Materials Response Team were called to the wreck as a precaution because oil and other fluids were leaking from the semi, she said.

No hazardous materials were found and the driver is believed to have been hauling plastics, said Thorne.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0360 or vlough@coxohio.com.

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