A cargo truck was completely destroyed by fire this Tuesday on Route 5 North, near Ovalle. The accident occurred around 7:00 a.m. at kilometer 396, specifically in the Quebrada Seca sector.
The incident caused a total standstill in both directions of the highway for much of the morning. The vehicle, which includes a semi-trailer, was engulfed in flames after striking a guardrail.
Fatigue cited as primary cause
According to the driver, a 35-year-old Chilean man, the accident occurred after he fell asleep while driving. The impact with the safety barrier triggered the fire within the cargo unit.
Despite the intensity of the fire and the significant property damage, the driver escaped uninjured. Authorities confirmed that the man's documentation was up to date at the time of the incident.
Emergency personnel rushed to the scene to control the flames and clear the roadway. Following cleanup efforts, authorities reopened one lane to restore traffic flow in the area.
