Big rig overturns into dry creek along Highway 99, near Le Grand Road in Merced County

A big rig driver was taken to the hospital with minor injuries Thursday afternoon following a rollover crash off northbound Highway 99, north of Le Grand Road.

California Highway Patrol officers, along with Cal Fire and Caltrans responded to the crash about 12:30 p.m., according to California Highway Patrol Sgt. Luis Lara.

Authorities said it appears the big rig was traveling northbound Highway 99 in the slow lane when for unknown reasons it drifted to the right shoulder and struck a disabled vehicle on the right shoulder.

The front of the big rig collided with the rear of the sedan, causing the big rig to leave roadway and overturn into a dry creek.

According to Lara, the big rig appears to have been hauling some type of pool chemicals, which were contained inside the trailer of the big rig. At this time the scene is considered a hazardous materials situation due to about 40 gallons of fuel spilling onto the dirt shoulder, according to Lara.

The number three lane was still closed in the area as of early Thursday afternoon and cleanup could take as many as three hours, according to the CHP.

According to Lara, motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible during afternoon commute times as crews work to clear the scene.

This story was originally published June 18, 2020 at 2:39 PM.