In this incident, on April 2nd, 2020, TeamProTow received an emergency dispatch about a semi-tractor collision, and a loaded trailer stuck in the median. We dispatched a heavy-duty rotating crane-style wrecker and heavy-duty towing truck to the scene. On route, we learned the I90 had been closed due to the accident, so traffic was at a standstill.
Scene Assessment
At the scene, we met with the incident command post and assessed the situation. There was heavy debris, a vehicle in multiple pieces blocking the roadway, and a motor vehicle fluid spill.
We reported to the command post and got permission from the vehicle owner to do what was needed for semi-truck recovery. The incident command informed us that WSP would be doing a commercial vehicle enforcement investigation during the initial scene investigation. Only once both investigations were complete could our team begin the recovery.
Recovery Work
Our team got to work with permission given to use the Westbound lanes for our semi-truck recovery work. We set up rigging and recovery equipment and managed to get traffic flowing as we worked. Since we were working uphill, extra calculations and precautions were put into play.
We managed to move the tractor and trailer combination until it became clear the fuel tanks were at risk of further damage and causing a fuel spill. Our team had to stop due to the unstable terrain causing issues with the loaded trailer. We decided to return in the morning with a new plan and meanwhile cleared away the equipment and roadway of any debris.
Semi-truck Recovery
The next day WSDOT approved traffic management plans, and we dispatched a traffic management company and got an attenuator trailer device. In addition to the original equipment, we also brought a heavy-duty recovery wrecker, compact track loader, dump trailer, flatbed tow truck, and another medium duty tow truck. Fully loaded and ready to go, our team set out for the scene once again for heavy-duty towing and recovery.
Once they set up traffic control, we began our recovery work. We found that 20 to 30 gallons of fuel oil and engine coolant had spilled into the soil. First, we safely rigged and moved the tractor and trailer to the roadside. Then, TeamProEnviro did a complete cleanup of the roadway and median.
The damage was extensive enough that we had to transport the combination without separating, despite trying to do so twice. Instead, our team transported the combination and our equipment back to the storage yard with professional heavy-duty towing.
To stop any spill contamination, we installed a portable parking stall containment berm and reconditioned the equipment. We manifested and transported all debris and contaminated soil. Later, outside of work hours, we did a non-routine mechanical separation for the tractor and trailer. Only then did we complete the paperwork and give the cleared call.
Be sure to check out our other incident reports on our Recovery Blog!
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