Separate big-rig accidents snarl traffic on Hwy 238, westbound Hwy 24 in Oakland
Incidents involving a big-rig fire in San Leandro blocking the northbound SR-238 connector to Interstate Highway 880 in San Leandro and an overturned big-rig on westbound Highway 24 at the Caldecott Tunnel are causing major traffic delays Wednesday morning, CHP said.
The first incident was reported at around 2:15 a.m. when a big-rig crashed into the center divide and caught fire on the northbound SR-238 connector ramp to northbound I-880 in San Leandro. As of 5 a.m., the connector ramp was closed and traffic diverted from northbound I-238 to southbound I-880.
The Alameda County Fire Department posted video of crews responding to the fire early Tuesday. The post said the trailer was hauling food and produce and that the driver was not injured.
The Hayward office of the CHP shared photos and videos of the progress made in clearing the scene. Just before 11 a.m., Caltrans reported the estimated time of reopening the connector ramp could be 1:30 p.m.
Shortly before 5 a.m., the CHP responded to another injury collision involving a big rig on westbound Highway 24 just past the Caldecott Tunnel in Oakland that has blocked all lanes. Video from the scene showed the big-rig had overturned and was on its side.
The driver may have been injured, the CHP said but there was no further word on the extent of possible injuries. Traffic was being diverted off to northbound Highway 13.
By around 9:20 a.m., CHP said the debris was cleared and Caltrans was working to finish sweeping the area. Crews were able to reopen all westbound lanes of Highway 24 at around 9:50 a.m.
Motorists were advised to expect delays in both areas and to use alternate routes.
