Semi Trailer Rolled Over by Strong Winds on I-84

The crash blocked the westbound lanes of I-84 at first, but passing tow trucks were in a good position to clear the scene and get traffic moving.

Photos courtesy: Oregon State Police

(PENDLETON, Ore.) - Severe cross winds were a factor Monday morning police say, in causing an empty semi-trailer to roll onto its side against a guardrail westbound Interstate 84 about 14 miles east of Pendleton.

According to Oregon State Police Trooper Amy Ford, no one was injured in the crash that closed the westbound lanes for a short period of time.

Investigators say a gust blew the truck's trailer over this morning at approximately 9:15 AM.

The 1998 International truck pulling two empty semi-trailers was driven by 65-year old Merle Lingel of New Plymouth, Idaho.

He was westbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 224 negotiating a curve when strong cross winds caused the most-rear trailer to roll onto its side and come to rest against the guardrail.

Story continues below

The truck and first trailer came to a stop blocking both westbound lanes for a short period of time before a tow truck headed to another call came upon the scene and helped remove these vehicles so a portion of the freeway could be reopened.

Oregon Highway officials responded to the scene to assist with traffic control and coordinate the semi-trailer's removal and guardrail repair assessment.
Source: Oregon State Police