Semi driver extricated, transported to Cedar City Hospital following rollover on SR-14

The scene of a semitractor-trailer rollover at state Route 14, mile marker 10.50, Cedar City, Utah, April 14, 2022 | Photo courtesy of Utah Highway Patrol, Cedar City News

CEDAR CITY — Concrete fireboard littered the roadway on state Route 14 after a semitractor-trailer navigated a corner at high speed and rolled over Wednesday night.

The scene of a semitractor-trailer rollover at state Route 14, mile marker 10.50, Cedar City, Utah, April 14, 2022 | Photo courtesy of Utah Highway Patrol, Cedar City News

The rollover was reported at approximately 10:29 p.m. and involved a semi loaded with concrete fireboard that was traveling west on SR-14.

Utah Highway Patrol Sgt. Bambi Baie told St. George News the driver told troopers he had been traveling down the mountain starting at 40 miles per hour and his brakes overheated while descending. Going approximately 70 mph, he lost control navigating the curve near mile marker 10.50 and rolled the semi, she said, adding that the semi’s brakes were smoking after the crash.

The driver did not have a commercial driver’s license, Baie said, adding that if he had, he might have known to downshift and use his engine instead of riding the brakes.

The driver had to be extricated from the wreckage at the scene and was transported to Cedar City Hospital via a Gold Cross ambulance for reportedly non-life-threatening injuries.

Baie said fireboard debris was scattered about 600 feet across the roadway. Both lanes were closed for about an hour, after which westbound traffic was allowed through. Both lanes were opened at approximately 2 a.m., but workers from the Utah Department of Transportation were still clearing debris on the roadside. All the debris was cleared at approximately 8:30 a.m. Thursday.

The scene of a semitractor-trailer rollover at state Route 14, mile marker 10.50, Cedar City, Utah, April 14, 2022 | Photo courtesy of Utah Highway Patrol, Cedar City News

“It was quite a mess,” Baie said.

Because there was only one trooper working the scene who did not interact with the driver, the man has not been cited, she said, adding that UHP turned the case over to the county attorney who will make the ultimate decision.

Baie said navigating mountainous roads can be difficult in commercial vehicles. It is important not to ride the brakes and drivers should downshift instead. She suggested reducing travel speed, checking that all equipment is in good condition and having the correct driver’s license for the vehicle being operated.

The Iron County Sheriff’s Office and Ladd’s Towing also responded to the scene.

This report is based on statements from court records, police or other responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.

Update April 16, 8:47 a.m. Corrected photo contributions

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