A tree limber that was resting too high on a trailer caused extensive damage to an Interstate 95 overpass in Aroostook County when it failed to clear a bridge overpass Wednesday afternoon.

The equipment caused major structural damage to the bridge, which will need significant repairs this summer. The Maine Department of Transportation said one northbound lane will have to remain closed while the Smyrna Road bridge in Oakfield is being repaired. The lane may not reopen until September.

State Trooper Chuck Michaud said in a press release that a 2003 Western Star tractor trailer that was hauling the limber crashed into the overpass around 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.

The truck driver, Gary Theriault, 58, of Fort Kent, was cited for having a load that exceeded the height limit. Theriault was not injured.


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