Truck Likely Cause of Bridge Collapse

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--Truck Likely Cause of Bridge Collapse

Preliminary reports suggest a truck was the cause of a bridge collapse in Lunenburg County on Thursday, Nov. 28.

It appears that the boom on the construction truck was not fully lowered before the driver entered the bridge. The extended boom tore out several upper supporting beams of the Petite Riviere Bridge.

An investigation continues into the cause of the accident, with charges pending under the Motor Vehicle Act.

Earlier this fall, the department spent about $50,000 to repair the same bridge when it was hit by a pickup truck. Yesterday's collision was at the opposite end of the bridge, and had nothing to do with the earlier repair work.

The department reminds motorists, especially drivers of larger vehicles, to observe all regulatory signs that clearly indicate height or weight restrictions on bridges.

Traffic is being detoured around the bridge, which is on Route 331, by taking Wentzell Road or Petite Riviere Road.