Camper crash slows traffic on turnpike

Camper crash slows traffic on turnpike

By Central Maine Newspapers August 11, 2008 03:16 PM

GARDINER--Traffic along the Maine Turnpike was slowed Monday afternoon after a camper trailer broke free from the SUV that was towing it and slid to a rest in the median.

There were no injuries as a result of the accident, though traffic in the northbound lane was reduced to one lane for more than an hour as crews cleared the scene, said Trooper Jeff DeGeroot of the Maine State Police.

The crash occurred on the northbound side a little before 1 p.m. near exit 103 where Interstate 295 merges with the turnpike. Phillip Hamlin, 54, of Sidney lost control of the 1995 Ford Bronco he was driving, causing the 27-foot camper trailer to swerve and break away from the truck, DeGeroot said.

The camper rolled over onto its side and came to a rest in the median and left lane of the turnpike.

The Bronco remained upright but was spun around by the force of the camper, DeGeroot said.

Neither Hamlin nor his wife and two young children, all of whom were wearing seatbelts, was injured.

The camper sustained significant damage, DeGeroot said. There was only minor damage to the Bronco.

Neither speed nor alcohol was a factor in the crash, DeGeroot said. No charges are expected.

Traffic was restored to all lanes by 2:30 p.m.