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CHIMNEY ROCK, Wis. (WFRV) – A bale of hay that fell off a trailer is being blamed for a major crash Tuesday afternoon on Wisconsin State Highway 93 (STH 93), leaving a semi-truck driver critically injured.
According to the Trempealeau County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a report of a semi-truck crashing into a large hay bale that had fallen from a trailer. The crash caused both lanes of STH 93 to be blocked.
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Authorities say a truck pulling a gooseneck trailer loaded with large square hay bales was heading north on the highway when a gust of wind dislodged one of the bales. As the semi-truck approached from the opposite direction, the hay bale struck its windshield, causing significant damage.
The impact led the semi-truck driver to lose control and jackknife across both lanes. The driver was airlifted to a nearby hospital with critical injuries.
A dog riding in the semi’s cab was unharmed and has since been taken to the Trempealeau County Humane Association until the driver’s son can retrieve it.
No injuries were reported in the vehicle hauling the hay. The driver of that vehicle was cited for traffic violations.
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STH 93 remained closed for more than two hours as crews cleared debris and removed the semi-truck.
Authorities remind drivers to ensure all cargo is properly secured to avoid preventable tragedies on Wisconsin roads.
