SAN ANTONIO – A rollover accident involving an 18-wheeler has been cleared after causing major traffic problems for commuters in the downtown San Antonio area.
The 18-wheeler flipped on its side early Thursday morning at the Finesilver curve around 12:30 a.m.
The accident prompted police to shut down the ramps from Interstate 35 South to Interstate 10 West and Interstate North to Interstate 10 West for several hours.
Crews removed the 18-wheeler at around 8 a.m. and opened all ramps. Crews had to remove the contents of the overturned trailer to another trailer, police said.
The accident occurred when police say the driver of the 18-wheeler came around the curve too fast and lost control when his load shifted.
"We know that there's an issue out there, but because of there's no space, there's no room for us to do anything with the Finesilver building there at this time there are no plans," said TxDOT spokesperson Laura Lopez.
She said plenty had already been done ot stop trucks from toppling over.
"There's plenty of signage out there reminding folks about what the speed is and also signs with 18 wheelers that are tipped over, so there is plenty of signage out there to remind motorists, 'Please be careful taking that curve,'" Lopez said.
Lopez said the curve has been part of a route that does not allow hazardous cargo since 1999 when a major spill closed the ramp for 24 hours.
She said that's also when overhead signs were added that show a driver's actual speed.
The big rig driver was not injured, but a pregnant woman who was on her way to the hospital to give birth was transported by paramedics because she was held up in the traffic.