Semi hits overpass on Yellowhead Trail near Wabamun re-routing traffic

Traffic is being diverted on Yellowhead Highway after a semi hauling an excavator hit an overpass near Wabamun.

Traffic is being re-routed on the Yellowhead Highway after a semi carrying an excavator hit the underside of an overpass near Range Road 41, said RCMP.

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The incident happened just after 10 a.m. Thursday at the turn off to the Wabamun townsite.

Cpl. Troy Savinkoff said a large part of the overpass had fallen onto the road following the crash.

“I would expect some pretty lengthy delays on that busy portion of the road getting through in the future,” said Savinkoff.

A statement from Alberta’s transportation ministry said both eastbound lanes on Highway 16 are closed and and traffic is being detoured to the ramps on the interchange.

The southbound lane on the overpass is closed and traffic is being alternated on the northbound lane with the assistance of a flag person.

The ministry said it is working to retain an engineering firm to complete a detailed inspection of the bridge to assess the damage caused by the crash. Once the inspection is complete, repair options will be developed and assessed with a cost estimate and potential project timeline.

The province will look to recover eligible costs through the insurance company of the company whose truck struck the bridge.

“All bridges have height signage clearly marked, and it is a driver’s responsibility to make sure loads are properly secured and do not exceed posted height limits,” said minister David Dreeshen in the statement.

Police say charges may be laid in the crash.

There were no injuries reported.