Semi driver cited, not injured

Photo courtesy of Colorado State Patrol

This semi accident closed Highway 17 for about five hours on Thursday. No one was injured in the single-vehicle accident, but driver Dakota Harris of Amarillo Texas, was cited for failure to drive in a single lane, according to Colorado State Patrol Sergeant Jared G. Rapp.  The crash occurred around 7:30 a.m. on January 3 on Highway 17.  The 2013 Volvo truck tractor, pulling a 63’ semi box trailer, went off the right side of the roadway prior to the driver attempting to correct and come back onto the roadway. The trailer was loaded with mostly canned goods and other items for delivery to grocery stores. The tractor and trailer rotated in a counter-clockwise direction prior to rolling one-quarter time onto its right side blocking both the north and south bound lanes of travel, Sgt. Rapp stated. The highway was closed for approximately five hours while the vehicle was uprighted. Saguache County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado Department of Transportation, Center Fire, Colorado State Patrol Hazardous Materials, and Colorado State Patrol Motor Carrier Safety responded to ensure scene cleanup and assist with traffic diversion for the road closure.