A heavily intoxicated Lithuanian truck driver crashed on the S8/S2 Konotopa interchange in Warsaw on April 22nd, shutting down a vital connector.
Truck Crash Shuts Down Interchange
A serious incident involving a truck occurred on Wednesday, April 22nd, at the Konotopa interchange, where the S8 highway connects to the S2. The truck driver collided with energy-absorbing barriers and sound screens.
The force of the impact was significant, causing substantial damage to road infrastructure. The truck’s cab ended up in a precarious position, completely blocking the connector from the S8 to the S2 towards Ursynów.
Difficult Rescue Operation
Reaching the driver, who was trapped in the cab, proved challenging. Firefighters used hydraulic tools to free the driver and hand him over to paramedics.
Driver Found Heavily Intoxicated
The Lithuanian driver, thankfully, did not sustain injuries requiring hospitalization. However, a breathalyzer test revealed a blood alcohol content of nearly 3 per mille, likely the cause of the crash.
Investigation and Arrest
The driver was detained and taken to the police station. Further proceedings will be conducted after he has sobered up. Police will investigate the details of the incident and the driver’s responsibility.
Extensive Damage and Traffic Disruption
The crash damaged energy-absorbing barriers and sound screens, necessitating additional safety and cleanup measures. Debris from the damaged infrastructure further hampered efforts to reopen the road.
As of 10 PM, the connector remained closed, with repairs expected to continue late into the night or early morning of Thursday, April 23rd.
Major Traffic Congestion
The incident caused significant traffic delays for drivers heading towards Ursynów and the southern districts of Warsaw. The closure of the connector on a major highway interchange led to substantial congestion on approaches to Konotopa.
