Closure of NB I-196 near Saugatuck following a semi-truck accident.
A semi-truck veered off I-196 near Saugatuck and caught fire in hazardous weather conditions. The northbound lanes of the highway were projected to be shut down overnight for a bridge inspection. The Allegan County Sheriff's Office reported the incident occurred around 7 a.m. when the northbound semi driver lost control and crashed onto Old Allegan Road. Due to severe weather causing multiple accidents, including rollovers, the wrecked semi ignited after breaching a guardrail. Fortunately, a passerby rescued the driver, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The road closure lasted for hours, and while the southbound lanes reopened by 10 a.m., the northbound stretch was still closed for a 5-mile section. According to the Saugatuck Township Fire District Chief, the reopening depends on a thorough assessment of the bridge's condition, as high temperatures could impact its structure. MDOT crews began the assessment on Monday but couldn't finish, leading to the extended closure. MDOT suggested a detour along Blue Star Highway for approximately 34,000 vehicles typically using North and South I-196 daily.
Leave a Comment
Popular News
Recent News
Weather
34%
8 MPH
-
25° June 17, 2026 -
31° June 17, 2026
