Wind Turbine Blade Crashes Into Traffic on Busy Northeast Interstate, Injuring One
A wind turbine blade broke free from a tractor-trailer hauling it along Interstate 70 in Washington County, Maryland, early Monday morning, striking a guardrail and crashing into traffic lanes in both directions.
According to the Maryland State Highway Administration, the incident occurred just before 5:30 a.m. as the westbound truck carrying the blade hit a guardrail. The blade then crossed the center median and entered eastbound traffic, where it was clipped by another vehicle.
Motorists reported significant disruption, prompting authorities to close all westbound lanes at Interstate 81 and two eastbound lanes. Traffic cameras showed the blade covering both sides of the highway. Heavy tow crews eventually cut the guardrail, returned the trailer to the westbound lanes, and moved the vehicle to a safe shoulder near Maryland Route 63.
All lanes were reopened by approximately 8:28 a.m. As a result of the incident, one person was taken to Meritus Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
The Maryland State Highway Administration continues to investigate how the blade detached from the trailer. The disruption during the morning commute highlights the risks involved in transporting oversized equipment.
With input from Fox News
