PINE ISLAND, MINNESOTA — A semi-truck driver was injured and taken to the hospital after a tractor-trailer left the roadway near Pine Island early Monday morning and rolled down an embankment, as responders warned that roads in the area remained extremely slick and travel should be avoided unless necessary.

The Pine Island Fire Department said crews were dispatched at approximately 6:55 a.m. on Monday, December 29, to Highway 52 South and County Road 11 for a report of a semi tractor-trailer leaving the roadway and rolling down the embankment.

Responders arrived and found the driver suffering injuries. The driver was transported to the St. Mary’s emergency room for treatment.

Assisting at the scene were the Minnesota State Patrol, Zumbrota Area Ambulance, and the Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office, according to the fire department.

As of about 9:30 a.m. Monday, the Pine Island Fire Department said roadways were still extremely slick and that travel was discouraged if it is not necessary. The department urged drivers to slow down and give MnDOT plow drivers space as crews work to clear the roads.

The incident remains under review.

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