Incident Overview
A Somali truck driver possessing a Minnesota commercial driver’s license was reported to have driven the wrong way on a highway due to an inability to read road signs, according to authorities.
Footage of the Wrong Way Driving
Shocking video circulated on social media depicted the truck traveling against oncoming traffic on US 61 near Troy, Missouri, early Wednesday morning, as reported by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Close Calls with Other Vehicles
The truck narrowly missed colliding with several vehicles before it crossed the median into the correct lane, where law enforcement eventually halted it.
Driver’s Background and Condition
The identity of the driver remains undisclosed, but reports indicate he received his commercial driver’s license in Minnesota. Authorities noted he exhibited no signs of impairment or medical issues, attributing his wrong-way driving to his inability to read the signs.
Public Safety Response
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed concern over the incident, highlighting the severity of the situation on X, stating that the driver spent significant distance driving in the wrong direction in an 80-ton truck. He commended Missouri law enforcement for removing the dangerous driver from the road.
Regulatory Actions and Investigations
Duffy revealed that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is investigating the trucking company, Cargo Transportation LLC, and affirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety of American roads.
Driver’s Citation and Language Proficiency Requirements
The driver received a citation for driving against traffic and was taken off the road but was not arrested. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is currently awaiting the FMCSA’s investigation results but confirmed that all CDL applicants in Minnesota must take their tests in English to demonstrate the ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
