A semi-trailer rig pulling two tankers of emulsified asphalt overturned on State Route 31 in Sanpete County, triggering a cleanup effort that extended well into Tuesday.
Utah Highway Patrol Cpl. Todd Johnson said the crash occurred about 6:30 p.m. Monday when the westbound semi's brakes overheated and failed as the rig traveled downhill. As its speed increased, the semi could not negotiate a sharp curve and toppled, spilling most of its 8,900-gallon load downslope.
Sanpete County hazardous materials workers were able to keep the asphalt from reaching a nearby river, and cleanup work at the site continued into Tuesday afternoon.
The driver was transported to the hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
No citations were issued, but the crash remained under investigation.
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