CRAIG, COLORADO — A semi-truck hauling crude oil skidded off Highway 13 in western Colorado on New Year’s Day and overturned its tanker trailer, prompting a multi-hour highway closure as crews transferred the hazardous cargo into a replacement tanker, according to authorities.

^{Photo credit: Moffat County Sheriff's Office}

The crash occurred on Highway 13 midway between Craig and Meeker, where the roadway was closed for several hours while the crude oil was offloaded from the damaged tanker and reloaded into another tanker. Authorities said the tanker trailer did not leak despite the rollover.

^{Photo credit: Craig Fire-Rescue} 

According to the Colorado State Patrol, the tanker detached from the tractor after striking a culvert. Investigators said the tractor itself apparently did not roll, but the separated tanker tumbled a distance away from the truck. No injuries were reported.

The semi driver was cited for careless driving, and authorities did not release the driver’s name.

During the closure, travelers in both directions were detoured onto U.S. 40 and Moffat County Road 17. Officials said the detour route led some motorists into difficult conditions, and the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office warned drivers to use caution due to snow-covered roads and icy areas.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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