Two Utah freeways were closed by two separate accidents last Saturday causing major delays across the state.
The first accident involved a semi-trailer on fire on I-80 in Tooele County causing an hour long road closure. The fire started around 1:15 p.m. Saturday, near milepost 69. Reports indicate the the truck was heading east toward Salt Lake City when the truck caught fire. Utah Highway Patrol disclosed that the driver of the semitrailer was able to get out from the truck upon realizing the fire and immediately called for help. Emergency crews arrived to put out the fire and remove the debris the fire had caused, forcing traffic to be rerouted around the affected area.
The cause of the fire is still being investigated. Authorities report the fire was so hot it severely damaged sections of the freeway reducing I-80 Eastbound to one lane until constructions crews have a chance to repair the damage.
The second accident happened earlier Saturday and involved a single car crash in Utah County caused allegedly by driving impairment. According to the report a man was driving south on I-15 around 7:30 a.m., when his SUV crashed into the freeway barriers near mile marker 266 at around 7:30 a.m. Authorities have reasons to believe the man was driving under the influence. Reports indicate the driver had to be extricated from his vehicle after which he was taken to Utah Valley Regional Medical Center with multiple injuries. Follow up investigation resulted in the man’s arrest for DUI.
These two incidents serve as reminders for motorists to always prioritize safety and to avoid impaired driving. Christensen & Hymas advocates safe driving habits. Please remember that any driving misbehavior may have serious consequence for offenders as well as those impacted. There are penalties for breaking the law and liabilities for damage to properties.
If you have been involved in an accident caused by someone’s recklessness, call us at (801)-506-0800. We offer free initial consultation for those seeking relief from financial constraint caused by the injuries. Call us now so that we can help you get the compensation you deserve.