Semi Driver's Mistake Forces I-215 Shutdown

A big rig driver's mistake led authorities to shut down the entire northbound side of Interstate 215 in Perris this afternoon.

A semi tractor trailer heading north on the freeway about 1:50 p.m. was forced to come to a complete stop in the slow lane -- only two lanes are available because of construction through the area -- when he realized he would not safely clear the approaching overpass, according to the California Highway Patrol.

"The height of the driver's trailer is 15 feet, nine inches," CHP Officer Travis Monks told City News Service. "The overpass is 15 feet above the freeway. He did not collide with the overpass because he stopped in time."

The overcrossing connects the 215 to state Route 74. In order for the driver to have cleared the span, he would have needed to exit at Fourth Street, according to Monks.

To get the rig backed up to the exit ramp, the CHP stopped all traffic while the driver repositioned his truck. Delays occurred because other vehicles were lined up to exit the jammed freeway, according to the CHP.

According to Monks, the operator of the rig was ticketed.

—City News Service