Sleepy Driver's Crash in Pinellas County
Update: The southbound lanes of US-19 are now open.
Pinellas County, FL. - A major traffic disruption unfolded this morning on US-19 after a tractor trailer crash led to the closure of all southbound lanes at the Curlew Road intersection. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the accident occurred at approximately 9:45 AM when the driver of the tractor trailer, carrying a large quantity of palm oil, fell asleep and veered into a construction area.
The driver, identified as a 64-year-old man from Bristol, was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Emergency response teams were dispatched to the scene promptly, and efforts to remove the vehicle and manage the palm oil spill are ongoing.
The FHP has advised motorists to avoid the southbound lanes of US-19 near Curlew Road and to seek alternate routes. The road closure is expected to last several hours as cleanup crews work to clear the area and ensure that it is safe for travel.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident to determine the exact cause and to assess whether additional safety measures are needed in the construction zone.
Local residents and commuters are urged to stay updated through local traffic reports and to exercise caution when traveling near the affected area. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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