A large truck carrying an oversized load on Interstate 70 failed to follow a designated route last Monday. The truck ripped through an overpass bridge tearing seven of the bridge’s 13 support beams. As a result of the truck accident, the McIlvane Road bridge over Interstate 70 near Bentleyville, Pennsylvania had to be torn down. The truck was carrying equipment for a large electric motor.

Drivers who haul oversized loads are supposed to obtain permits. The permit identifies a designated route and informs drivers of low overpasses. The driver of last Monday’s accident was supposed to follow his designated route by exiting Interstate 70 to avoid the McIlvane Road bridge. The president of the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association said the incident was not an accident and was plainly irresponsible of the driver.

Cars called pilot cars lead semi’s carrying oversized loads on their designated paths and warn truck drivers of potential road issues. The pilot car that lead the truck carrying the electric motor equipment tried to warn the driver of the bridge before the driver arrived to it. The pilot car was not able to make contact and the 15 foot, 5 inch load ran into the 14 foot, 9 inch bridge. After striking the bridge, the truck driver continued on his route to a rest area on Interstate 79. Police caught up with the driver at the rest stop and charged him with 13 violations including speeding, damaging property and failing to notify police of an accident.

The truck driver was arrested because of the truck accident and was released after posting bond. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation may seek reimbursement for the demolition and rebuilding of the bridge. Demolition costs alone would exceed $100,000.

Source: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, “I-70 Reopens Day After Truck Took Out Deficient Bridge Near Bentleyville,” 10/20/10