Tractor Trailer Forced Off Roadway

lakecountyohio.gov, Apr 02, 2007

On 02-21-2007 at 1826 hrs. the Lake County Sheriff's Office responded to a reported multiple vehicle injury accident on Interstate 90 west bound at the 209 mile marker in Leroy Twp. Upon arrival Interstate 90 west bound had to be shut down.  Multiple agencies to include Madison Village PD and Ohio Highway Patrol assisted with traffic control. West bound, I 90 traffic was diverted off onto Rt. 528. Vehicles between Rt. 528 and the 209 mile marker were re-routed east bound to Rt. 528. Leroy Twp. Fire was also on scene.

Investigation at the scene determined that a green 1996 Chevy Blazer towing a 1980 20 foot Coachman Camper was operated by 55 year old, Mayville, New York resident, Daniel Rothwell. The passenger in his vehicle was Rothwells wife, 39 year old Janice Hall also from Mayville New York. Rothwell was traveling west in the left lane and attempted to change lanes into the right / curb lane of travel. Upon making the lane change, Rothwell failed to see a white 1998 International Tractor Trailer operated by 50 year old, Tonawanda New York resident, Milenko Ristic. The passenger side of Rothwells vehicle struck the driver side of the Tractor Trailer forcing the semi truck off the right side of the roadway. Upon impact the Chevy with camper in tow jackknifed.  Severe, disabling damage occurred to the Chevy, the camper and the Tractor unit.

The only injuries reported were from Janice Hall who sustained a laceration to her right cheek but refused medical transport. No other injuries were reported and no medical transports took place.  Auto Site was contacted for multiple heavy duty tows to remove the vehicles involved. All parties reported the use of seatbelts.  Mr. Rothwell was charged with Rules for Driving in Marked Lanes of Travel and issued a citation. Interstate 90 west bound was closed for approximately 4 hours before it was opened to vehicular travel.