SHARON, W.Va. — Approximately 50 drivers got unexpected flat tires on their vehicles as they drove south on the West Virginia Turnpike Friday morning, authorities said.
The flats were caused by sharp pieces of metal that was being hauled by a truck that had accidentally lost part of its load.
It all started at little after 9 a.m. in the slow lane southbound near the Sharon exit in Kanawha County, Turnpike Operations Director Tyrone Gore said.
The truck went on for a couple of miles but Gore said they were able to get him stopped fairly quickly.
“The PSC had him secure his load before his proceeded,” Gore said.
Turnpike crews used a magnetic roller to pick up the metal pieces.
It was an unfortunate situation for motorists, Gore said.
“There is nothing that can prevent that and there’s nothing we can do but stop the vehicle as quickly as possible and get it cleaned up and that was pretty much what we were able to do,” Gore said.
A number of tow trucks were called to the scene to assist motorists and move them from the shoulder of the highway so other southbound traffic could continue.
No injuries were reported.