Chaos ensued on the northbound lanes of Highway 101 yesterday, as a big rig took a tumble onto its side while making its way off the road at Old Bayshore Highway in San Jose. The behemoth of a truck, blocking the off-ramp, brought traffic to a standstill and kept drivers at bay for hours past the initial estimate. Originally reported by the Mercury News, the incident occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon, according to dispatch logs from the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Despite the heavy congestion, luckily, no injuries were reported in connection with the overturned rig. The CHP had initially predicted a clearing time around 6:30 p.m., but even as the clock struck 7:30 p.m., the off-ramp remained obstinately blocked. The closure was extended, with drivers needing to seek alternative routes for the evening. The link to Caltrans Quickmap was provided in the X post by Caltrans District 4, offering live updates on the traffic situation.
#UPDATE: NB Old Bayshore ramps remain closed. For live traffic conditions go to Caltrans Quickmap 🔗https://t.co/uqXXVyta4q https://t.co/YABczO1Lqh
— Caltrans District 4 (@CaltransD4) December 14, 2023
Speeding towards disaster, "speed is likely a factor" in the cause of the crash, CHP Officer Ross Lee suggested. He shared with the Mercury News that the cargo carrier leaned dangerously to the left before succumbing to gravity's embrace on the ramp. Though the inquiry is still underway, CHP seems to be leaning toward driver speed as the precipitating element behind this traffic snarl.
A ribbon of red brake lights and idling engines marked the delay as commuters awaited clearance. Indeed, the silver lining in an otherwise chaotic day came as no other vehicles' embroilment or physical harm befalling anyone, making the situation a logistical headache rather than a human tragedy, as Officer Lee informed the Mercury News. Updates and further details will be provided as they are released to the public.
