The driver of a dump truck in Gorham, Maine learned the hard way not to tempt fate when he crashed into the Presumpscot River on Friday afternoon. The incident took place on Babb’s Bridge, originally built before the Civil War in 1840 and rebuilt in 1976 after a fire. The loaded vehicle left a hole in the planks in the shape of the truck, causing significant damage to the historic bridge. The driver suffered minor injuries, but the bridge will likely be closed for a few months as officials assess the damage.
The weight limit on Babb’s Bridge was 3 tons, but the dump truck carrying crushed stone was significantly heavier, according to Paul Merrill, spokesperson for the Maine Department of Transportation. The truck was crossing from Gorham into Windham when it plummeted into the water, causing concern for the driver’s safety as well as the structural integrity of the bridge. The Gorham Police Department is currently investigating the incident, but the driver has not responded to messages from the Associated Press. The severity of the damage caused by the crash is expected to result in a lengthy closure of the bridge for repairs.
Babb’s Bridge has been a historic landmark in the area for nearly two centuries, and its loss will be felt by the local community. Originally built over 180 years ago, the bridge has stood as a testament to the craftsmanship of the time. Although it was rebuilt in 1976 after a fire, the recent crash has caused significant damage to the structure, leaving a visible impact in the form of a hole in the planks shaped like the truck that crashed into it. The bridge closure will likely disrupt traffic in the area for months to come, as officials work to repair the damage and ensure the safety of the structure.
The driver of the dump truck was fortunate to escape the crash with minor injuries, considering the severity of the incident. The truck was carrying a load that far exceeded the weight limit of the bridge, leading to the disastrous outcome. The driver’s oversight and disregard for road regulations have resulted in costly repairs and potential legal consequences. The investigation into the crash will likely shed light on the events leading up to the incident and determine any liability on the part of the driver or other parties involved.
The Maine Department of Transportation is working to assess the damage to Babb’s Bridge and develop a plan for repairs in the coming months. The weight limit on the bridge will likely be enforced more strictly in the future to prevent similar incidents from occurring. The community will have to adjust to the bridge closure and find alternative routes for travel while repairs are underway. The historic significance of Babb’s Bridge adds to the impact of its loss, as residents reflect on the history and memories associated with the structure.
Overall, the crash of a dump truck into Babb’s Bridge in Gorham, Maine serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of following road regulations and respecting historical landmarks. The incident highlights the fragility of older structures and the consequences of disregarding weight limits on bridges. While the driver of the truck escaped with minor injuries, the damage caused to the bridge will likely result in a lengthy closure and significant repairs. The investigation into the crash will provide insights into the events leading up to the incident and determine any legal implications for the driver or others involved.
