Occurred on 1/8/13, 12:05pm  Traffic Accident     IH37 SB at N. Port   C1300174

An accident involving an 18 wheeler and a pick-up truck shut down southbound traffic on IH 37 for a couple of hours.  The Officers investigation revealed that a Ford pick-up truck attempted to pass the tractor-trailer and lost control.  The truck struck the concrete median and then collided with the tractor-trailer, causing it to jack-knife.

During the collision the highway sign crossing IH 37 was taken out and landed on the tractor-trailer and the freeway.

The tractor-trailer fuel tank was punctured causing the diesel fuel to spill onto the freeway and catch fire.  CCFD Emergency Personnel and their HAZMAT crew quickly put out the fire and dealt with the fuel leak.  TXDOT was called to assist and cranes were used to remove the sign from the roadway allowing IH 37 to be reopened.

Officers report both drivers had minor injuries.  Lt. C. Abbott  stated, “This was an impressive job by the Police Department in quickly closing the Interstate and securing the crash scene. All responding agencies coordinated and worked exceptionally well together in clearing this scene and making it safe.”