RVer Knocks Out New Mexico Bridge

Seems like US bridges can't stay out of the news--this time it involves an RVer.

Bill Lange, a fifth-wheel owner from Wisconsin was motoring along with his fifth wheel in tow, minding his own business, when WHAM! his rig happened upon a bridge expansion joint sticking up at least 8" above the pavement. Lange recalls, "I had no time to react. The truck was slightly hit, but my trailer took the brunt of the blow. I’m just grateful nobody else was on the bridge when it happened.”

Lange was a bit away from home: The bridge crosses New Mexico's Canadian River, and is the main route to a popular camping at Ute Lake. The impact of Lange's rig with the joint caused a six foot section of the bridge to open up, forcing the closure of the bridge to traffic for several hours. The bridge on US Highway 54 had recently be inspected and graded as "fair," indicating that it was structurally sound. The accident took place last week. For the complete story, click here.

Photo: cnjonline.com