Tractor Trailer Driver Charged After Striking Multiple Overpasses on Thruway

Yisroel R.

A man has been charged after a tractor trailer struck multiple overpasses along the New York State Thruway, according to State Police.

The incident occurred on March 18 at approximately 1:45 p.m., when authorities received a report that a tractor trailer hauling an over-height excavator on a flatbed was hitting many overpasses.

Troopers located the vehicle, a 2019 Freightliner, and conducted a traffic stop. The driver was identified as 38-year-old Oleksander Tarakanovskyi of North Carolina.

Investigators determined that the truck struck more than a dozen overpasses over a stretch of about 60 miles. State Police, along with Thruway Authority traffic safety, maintenance, and bridge inspection teams, responded to examine the damage.

No injuries were reported, and traffic was not significantly impacted. Most of the overpasses sustained minor damage, while a few had moderate damage. All lanes remain open as inspections continue.

State Police officials said the driver’s actions created a serious hazard, noting that troopers acted quickly to stop the vehicle and prevent further risk to motorists.

Tarakanovskyi was charged with reckless endangerment in the second degree and issued more than 20 traffic tickets, including violations of commercial vehicle safety regulations. He was processed and released with an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Salina Court on April 8.