A big rig driver whose truck overturned on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge today -- blocking traffic for more than five hours -- ignored high-wind warnings and drove at excessive speeds before the crash, the California Highway Patrol said Sunday.
The truck was eastbound on Interstate 580 about 4:30 a.m., -- just east of the San Quentin off-ramp -- at speeds in excess of 45 mph when it was overturned by strong winds, Officer Eric Hohmeister said.
The driver had ignored high wind warning signs when entering the bridge, the officer said.
The empty rig overturned on its right side, blocking the two left lanes.
Tow crews had to wait for winds to subside before working to right the truck.
The truck was straightened and the roadway reopened by about 10:30 a.m.
There were no reports of any injuries and no gasoline was spilled.
Eastbound lanes were blocked for more than five hours, with traffic forced to use the right shoulder to pass.
-- Bay City News Service
