The driver of a large truck was seriously injured Monday after its load struck an overpass on the Maine Turnpike in South Portland, according to state police.
Loel Faulkinham, 58, of Auburn is being treated at Maine Medical Center for multiple injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening, said Stephen McCausland, spokesman for the Maine Department of Public Safety.
The truck was carrying an industrial man lift. The truck, trailer and equipment — which are owned by WD Matthews Machinery of Auburn — were destroyed by the impact of the crash. Part of the equipment also ripped through the cab of the truck, missing the driver by a couple of inches, McCausland said.
The crash happened around 11 a.m. at mile 45 of the Maine Turnpike. Northbound traffic was disrupted for hours while the wreckage was removed from the site and fuel oil was cleaned up.
Turnpike officials were assessing the damage to the overpass, McCausland said.
Troopers said the truck and its load cleared two prior overpasses as it was traveling north. No charges were filed, McCausland said.
BDN writer Christopher Burns contributed to this report.