Driver Ignores 'Road Closed' Sign, Runs Into Parked Water Truck

RACINE COUNTY, WI — Authorities are urging citizens to obey local "Road Closed" signs after a gruesome injury on Highway 45 overnight.

On Wednesday, July 26, just after 9 p.m., the Racine County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to Highway 45 and S. Colony Ave near 52nd Rd in the Town of Yorkville for a two-vehicle accident.

This area is under heavy road construction and is clearly posted with barricades and signs stating, “Road Closed to Thru Traffic” and “Open to Local Traffic Only”.

The accident occurred inside the construction zone and involved a Hyundai Elantra and an unoccupied parked construction water tanker truck.

It was found that the driver of the Hyundai drove around the road closure and rear ended the tanker truck.
The Hyundai sustained severe front-end damage. Miraculously the driver only suffered a broken leg and was transported via rescue to Wheaton Franciscan Hospital in Racine.

The passenger was treated for minor injuries at the scene and released. The driver was issued a citation for failure to obey a sign.

The Racine County Sheriff’s Office is reminding all motorists to please obey all traffic signs, especially road closed signs. “Road closed to thru traffic” means that motorists are not allowed to enter and drive through the construction zone when they have no intention of going to a residence or business that is within the construction zone.

“Open to local traffic only” means that motorists are allowed to enter the construction zone if they intend on going to a residence or business that is within the construction zone. These signs are there to protect motorists and construction workers. Please keep in mind that road construction areas are hazardous with poor road conditions, poor lighting, and large pieces of construction equipment throughout.

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