Lucky driver escapes after semi slides 200 metres down embankment near Quesnel

A semi driver had a lucky escape this morning, Jan. 25, when his truck jackknifed and slid 200 metres down a steep embankment near Quesnel.

The semi-truck – which appeared to be carrying a load of Tim Horton's coffee – crossed the centerline and came off the highway before sliding the 200 metres and colliding with a tree. The impact caused the fuel tank to rupture and leaked diesel into the Bonaparte River.

According to a Quesnel RCMP media release the incident took place on Highway 97,  near Church Road, Quesnel, at around 8:45 a.m. Jan. 25.

The truck and trailer did not roll over and the driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries by ambulance.

"It is very fortunate that the transport truck did not collide with a northbound vehicle prior to entering the ditch," Quesnel RCMP Sgt. Richard Weseen said in the release. "We want to remind drivers to slow down and drive appropriately for the weather and road conditions."

The release says the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Environment has been notified of the spill and an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

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