Traffic Snarled in Bluffton After Semi-Truck Fire Causes Major Delays

Traffic Snarled in Bluffton After Semi-Truck Fire

It was a typical Tuesday afternoon in Bluffton until things took a fiery turn around 4:10 PM. Drivers on U.S. 278 found themselves at a standstill as a semi-truck caught fire, causing quite the ruckus on the usually bustling highway. The incident began when the driver noticed smoke rolling from the back of his trailer, leading him to pull over to the shoulder to address the problem.

What Sparked the Fire?

According to the local fire district, the blaze was linked to a rear wheel locking up while the truck was in motion. This unfortunate mechanical failure created an enormous amount of friction which quickly led to flames. The truck, a large 18-wheeler, was carrying a load of wood chips from Hilton Head Island, and it’s likely that the load made the situation even more intense.

Firefighters from the Bluffton Township Fire District were quick on the scene, eager to put out the flames and ensure the safety of everyone involved. However, initial attempts using fire extinguishers proved to be insufficient against the stubborn fire. All attention turned to controlling the flames before they became a larger issue.

Firefighters to the Rescue

Despite using extinguishers, the heat from the overheated brakes was simply too much for them to handle alone. Fortunately, the fire was ultimately suppressed around 4:21 PM, and first responders were able to reopen one of the westbound lanes of Fording Island Road shortly thereafter.

But the situation still wasn’t completely under control. As of 5 PM, traffic cameras indicated that the right and center westbound lanes of U.S. 278 remained closed, creating significant delays for drivers. Google Maps traffic data revealed a cluster of cars trapped in a gridlock that extended over a staggering seven-mile stretch of the highway. If you were stuck, you weren’t alone! The jams even snaked into neighboring bluff roads, including parts of Bluffton Road and Bluffton Parkway.

A Community Effort

The local community was undoubtedly impacted as many commuters were late for appointments and evening plans due to the unexpected standstill. It’s important to remember that such incidents can happen at any time, reminding us to stay vigilant while on the road. The presence of fire trucks and emergency vehicles was a common sight as authorities worked diligently to clear the scene.

As evening fell, and the caution lights began flashing, many drivers were grateful for the swift action of the Bluffton firefighters and emergency services. The teamwork shown in swiftly managing the situation reflected the community spirit of Bluffton, reminding all of us of the importance of preparedness and quick thinking.

Final Thoughts

Though the fire might have caused a hassle for many, it also showcased the brave efforts of our local first responders who are always ready to jump into action. As we navigate through the beautiful roads of Bluffton, let’s remember to stay alert and give thanks for those who look out for our safety every day. We hope for a peaceful and uneventful drive for everyone in the days to come!