The driver of a semi tractor-trailer was seriously injured after his truck reportedly rear ended a snowplow actively clearing snow on state Highway 29 the morning of Jan. 19, according to the Shawano County Sheriff’s Department.
The driver was initially trapped inside the truck, extricated by fire crews and then taken to an area hospital by a ThedaCare helicopter.
According to a sheriff’s department news release, the two-vehicle crash was reported at about 9:50 a.m. The crash happened on the westbound lane of Hwy. 29 near High Line Road, just east of Bonduel.
Initial reports indicated injuries and roadway blockage.
Multiple deputies responded to the scene along with fire and EMS units. Upon arrival, the westbound lanes of Hwy. 29 were completely blocked due to the crash.
The driver of the semi was injured and trapped inside the cab. The driver of the plow truck sustained minor injuries and exited the vehicle without assistance.
The preliminary investigation indicates the plow truck was operating in the fast lane/median shoulder of the westbound lanes while actively plowing, according to the sheriff’s department. The semi was traveling in the same lane and rear ended the plow truck. The impact pushed the plow truck into the median, and the semi jackknifed into the ditch area.
Traffic was rerouted while emergency crews worked to clear the scene. Both vehicles sustained severe damage.
The accident site was reopened around 3 p.m.
A witness reported there were no vehicles operating in the slow lane at the time of the crash. It remains unknown why the semi driver did not move over upon approaching the plow truck.
The Wisconsin State Patrol responded to the scene and is conducting a commercial vehicle inspection of the semi.
Because a Shawano County Highway Department vehicle was involved, the Wisconsin State Patrol is the primary investigating agency.
The Shawano County Sheriff’s Department was assisted on scene by the Bonduel Fire Department, Bonduel EMS, Shawano Ambulance, Shawano County Highway Department and ThedaStar.
The Shawano County Sheriff’s Department urges all motorists to remain alert, eliminate distractions and pay attention to emergency and highway service vehicles. Slow down or move over when approaching plow trucks and emergency responders so everyone can return home safely at the end of their shift.
