A lorry has driven off the road on the E4 near Norrköping, causing traffic chaos and a significant risk for both drivers and emergency workers. The driver of the lorry is fortunately uninjured, according to the emergency services.
The incident occurred when the trailer overturned over both lanes in the northbound direction, taking a wire from the center rail across the lanes with it. The Swedish Transport Administration has stated that the accident has a “very large impact” on traffic, leading to the closure of the road while waiting for rescue workers. Traffic is being diverted for a shorter distance to ease congestion.
Torbjörn Lindqvist, officer on duty at the police, has highlighted the potential dangers associated with the situation. “Even if the truck is salvaged, the cable must be repaired, if it is released from the truck it can go in all possible directions. You may have to close southbound also when it is removed,” he told Norrköping Tidningar.
Pedher Helmer at the rescue service has also emphasized the risky nature of the work being carried out. “The work that is going on right now is to detach the wires and thus be able to release the tension as there is an imminent risk that they will otherwise go off uncontrolled. When that work is finished, the salvager can gain access to the site and begin the salvage work,” Helmer said.
Salvage work is expected to be completed by 19.00 this evening, but the incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with road accidents and the important work carried out by emergency services to ensure the safety of both drivers and workers.