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Truck crash closes Idaho 55 Monday; repairs completed

A semi truck jackknifed and nearly went into the Payette River Monday afternoon on Idaho 55 north of Banks. The driver of the semi reported to Idaho State Police that he was fatigued and might have fallen asleep.

The southbound truck drifted onto the right shoulder and over-corrected, crossing the northbound lane and crashing through the guardrail. The truck's fuel tank ruptured in the crash. Initial reports indicate that fuel leaked onto the shoulder and rocks below, but not into the river.

Crews pumped the remaining fuel from the semi, and two large wreckers were used to pull the vehicle back on the road late Monday night. A hazardous materials cleanup company worked overnight to remove diesel contamination and repair the embankment. ITD crews completed guardrail repairs by mid-afternoon Tuesday. 

Published 6-10-2011