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Fallen Utility Line Shuts Down I-64 Near Winchester

July 29, 2011 - Winchester, Ky - A fallen utility line caused traffic headaches for many drivers traveling on Interstate 64 on Monday, July 25^th.

Dispatchers alerted WKYT 27 Newsfirst to the incident, which occurred around 2 p.m. Reports say a crane being used for the construction project, taking place at mile marker 96, struck a utility line that landed across the highway.

Traffic was backed up in both directions for nearly 2 hours as utility crews repaired the damaged line. Drivers were rerouted while the repairs took place and no injuries were reported.

Winchester residents need to exercise caution when driving through construction areas due to the increased safety hazards. If a construction worker's error causes a hazard, which results in damage to passing vehicles, serious injury can occur. Construction sites can be held liable for any accidents caused by neglect of safety regulations.

Fallen utility lines can be hazardous when not repaired immediately, and recent storms and construction can increase the chances of injury. Report downed lines to authorities and keep away from the area to avoid accidents. It's the responsibility of the utility company or local government to attend to these hazards and prevent accidental contact.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2009 Kentucky Crash Statistics, there were 791 fatalities as a result of traffic accidents in Kentucky.

As a service to our readers, we will occasionally publish blogs about serious or fatal traffic accidents in our region. We do this to raise awareness of the types of conditions and factors that commonly lead to severe injuries or death as a result of Kentucky vehicle accidents. If you or loved one was mentioned in this blog and you would like for it to be removed, please contact us and we will accommodate your request.

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