Interstate Highway 80 in Emeryville, California, was reopened Tuesday morning following a four-vehicle crash involving a big-rig late Monday night, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
The crash occurred near Powell Street when a big-rig plowed into the center divider, blocking all five eastbound and four westbound lanes on Highway 80. The highway was cleared and reopened to traffic around 5 a.m. Tuesday.
Three other vehicles were involved in the crash, resulting in significant injuries to at least one driver, CHP officials noted.
Of critical environmental concern, at least 20 gallons of gas leaked from the big-rig onto the highway. The CHP confirmed that no drainages were affected by the spill.
This incident underscores the importance of road safety, particularly involving large vehicles like big-rigs. It also accentuates the environmental hazards associated with vehicle accidents, particularly those involving potential contaminants such as gasoline.