Overturned Semi Snarls Traffic On I-44 In Tulsa

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol blames the rain for a crash that closed the westbound lanes of Interstate 44 at Highway 169 in Tulsa Monday morning.

Troopers said a PT Cruiser was heading west on I-44 shortly after 10 a.m. when it spun 180 degrees and collided with a semi that was also westbound.

The collision caused the semi to roll onto its side. The truck was carrying fly ash, according to the OHP. Trooper Dwight Durant said fly ash is a by-product of burning coal and is used to make concrete.

Troopers said the wreck hurt two people but did not release any information on the severity of their injuries.

The OHP sent five troopers to the scene of the crash, which caused a huge traffic backup on I-44. ODOT closed the westbound I-44 on-ramps from north and southbound 169. 

Three tow trucks righted the wrecked semi just after noon. One of them removed it from the scene at about 1 p.m. and the OHP re-opened all westbound lanes at that time.