Southbound I-55 Closed at Manchac for Several Hours to Recover Sunken 18-wheeler
On Sunday, February 26, 2023, an 18-wheeler crashed on I-55 South near Manchac and closed the Interstate for roughly 8 hours, reports Fox 8. During the truck’s recovery, traffic was allowed to exit the highway, travel along the low road, and re-enter I-55 at Ruddock.
While the crash is still under investigation by authorities, the only injuries we’re aware of at this time are minor, suffered by the truck driver. WGNO reports that one of the truck’s tires blew out, causing him to lose control and the truck to tumble off the road.
Truck accidents can often be caused by something as simple as a blown-out tire. Big rigs are more at-risk for these kinds of catastrophic wrecks due to their increased size and momentum, making them harder to control in an emergency situation.
Luckily, only the truck was involved in this crash. If you find yourself near a truck while it’s losing control, be sure to
- Stay back. Don’t attempt to overtake a truck that’s losing control.
- Keep alert. Trucks can change direction and speed quickly—and if the driver is out of control, they can be unpredictable.
- Slow down. High speeds only exacerbate the injuries sustained in crashes. While you may not be able to control the truck’s movements, you can control your own, and slowing down is the best way to make a crash as minor as possible.
- Call 911. If you’re able to safely do so, call first responders so they can begin making their way to the scene of the crash.
By keeping the above tips in mind, you could save your life or someone else’s on the road. Highway safety is everyone’s responsibility.
