A tanker truck carrying 40,000 pounds of used cooking oil overturned Tuesday morning, causing significant traffic disruptions in Bergen County. The accident occurred around 10 a.m. on the Route 17 southbound ramp leading to Route 3 East in Rutherford. As crews worked to upright the truck and clear the scene, traffic on the westbound side of Route 3 became heavily backed up, with many drivers slowing down to catch a glimpse of the incident.
The driver of the truck sustained a shoulder injury in the crash and was treated at the scene. Fortunately, no other injuries have been reported. However, the extent of the damage and whether the cooking oil spilled remains unclear. Officials are assessing potential environmental impacts, though no immediate hazards have been confirmed.
Cleanup efforts are expected to continue through the Tuesday evening rush hour, meaning commuters should prepare for ongoing delays. Crews are working diligently to clear the wreckage and ensure the area is safe for travel. In the meantime, drivers are advised to avoid the area if possible and seek alternate routes to minimize congestion.
The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who transport heavy loads and the potential risks involved. While accidents like these are rare, they can have a ripple effect, disrupting traffic and requiring significant resources to resolve. As the cleanup progresses, officials are urging patience and caution from drivers navigating the area.
For now, the focus remains on supporting the injured driver, addressing any environmental concerns, and restoring normal traffic flow. Updates on the situation will be provided as more information becomes available. In the meantime, commuters are encouraged to stay informed and plan their routes accordingly to avoid further delays.