Lumber truck overturns on PA overpass, spilling thousands of pounds of wood on motorists below [Video]
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Last week, a tractor-trailer carrying cut lumber overturned in Pennsylvania, spilling its load across the highway. The semi-truck driver was on an overpass, and the height sent planks spraying sideways across the road below.
PA driver gets swept away by spilled lumber
The lumber moved at such a clipping speed and force that it caught one car in its wave. It sent the vehicle across the fast lane and up onto the hilly embankment. The car landed sideways, facing the road.
ABC7 reported zero injuries. It took crews about four hours to clean up the mess.
Lumber loads are typically secured using ratchet straps, chains, and non-slip grip mats placed on the trailer bed. The methodology depends on the load’s weight, shape, and size. Whoever loads the trailer usually secures some straps in an “X” pattern to hold the wood together. Additional straps or chains go over the X patterns at various points.
Of course, some lumber loads come with unique challenges and considerations. For example, if the lumber’s length exceeds the trailer’s endpoint, the DOT might require an oversized load designation. These have additional requirements, like a special permit and route restrictions.
While it’s certainly possible the load wasn’t properly tied down, most transporters do what they can to secure their cargo considering requirements. However, it’s all done more to prevent the cargo from falling off during regular driving conditions. An overturning event can be too much force for a set of straps to hold, as in this case.
