Multiple Lanes of 5 Freeway Shut Down After Semi-Truck Crash
Multiple lanes of the northbound 5 Freeway in Los Angeles County have been shut down following a crash involving a semi-truck during one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and the closure is set to last well into the morning.
Crash Details
According to the California Highway Patrol, the incident was first reported just before 3 a.m. Sunday south of the Parker Road exit in Castaic.
Accident Description
The truck drove off the roadway, taking out part of the guardrail as it did so and falling into a waterway, authorities told KTLA.
Response and Cleanup Efforts
Many precautions are being taken to ensure that the fuel from the truck doesn’t leak into the waterway; officials confirmed an hour after the crash that the #3 and #4 lanes would be closed for approximately six hours.
“[The waterway] basically will drain into the ocean, so we are going to control that spillage and make sure and make sure there isn’t any fuel that goes into the waterway as we extract the vehicle,” said Vincent Mendez of Freeway Towing Company, one of the agencies working to clear the scene.
Investigation and Injuries
The cause of the crash is under investigation, and the driver of the semi-truck was said to have been transported from the scene to receive medical attention.
Travel Advisory
Authorities are advising anyone who needs to travel through the Grapevine on Sunday morning to drive with caution and pack their patience.
Conclusion
The closure of multiple lanes on the 5 Freeway is expected to cause significant delays and disruptions to traffic during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and patience when traveling through the area.
FAQs
Q: What caused the crash?
A: The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Q: How many lanes are closed?
A: The #3 and #4 lanes are closed for approximately six hours.
Q: Is the fuel from the truck leaking into the waterway?
A: No, authorities are taking precautions to ensure that the fuel does not leak into the waterway.
Q: How long is the closure expected to last?
A: The closure is expected to last well into the morning.
Q: Are there any alternative routes available?
A: Yes, motorists are advised to use alternative routes and exercise caution when traveling through the area.
