Aiken, South Carolina, September 4, 2025
News Summary
A tanker truck carrying used motor oil overturned on I-20 near Aiken, resulting in significant traffic disruptions and an oil spill. The eastbound lanes were closed for hours, with environmental officials coordinating cleanup efforts after a collision caused the tanker to roll over. Fortunately, the driver managed to escape with assistance from a witness, but the event raises safety concerns for the area.
Aiken, South Carolina – Tanker Overturns on I-20 Near Aiken, Causing Major Traffic Disruption and Oil Spill
Eastbound Interstate 20 was closed for hours on Wednesday following the overturn of a tanker truck near the Aiken airport, significantly disrupting traffic in the area. The highway was reopened by 6:09 p.m. after environmental officials and a wrecker crew managed to upright the tanker and clean up the scene.
The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m., close to Mile Marker 22, when the tanker, carrying approximately 2,400 gallons of used motor oil, flipped over after losing control, veering into the median. Witnesses reported that a red pickup truck in the right lane struck the tanker, causing it to roll over.
Initial reports indicated that a person was trapped inside the truck. Fortunately, the driver was able to free themselves with assistance from a nearby witness who broke the window of the overturned vehicle. The witness applied a belt to the driver’s injured arm to stop bleeding while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
By 12:35 p.m., at least 100 gallons of motor oil had spilled from the tanker, prompting officials to call for a hazardous materials cleanup team. Due to the hazardous nature of the spill, a detour was implemented for eastbound traffic, which led to the closure of the on-ramp at Mile Marker 22. Drivers traveling east toward Columbia were redirected to enter the interstate at Wire Road.
The section of I-20 between Augusta and the Aiken airport has had a troubling history with big-rig accidents, particularly involving tankers, raising serious safety concerns for residents and commuters in the area.
Compounding the situation, two angry customers threatened a drive-thru employee at a nearby establishment, highlighting the frustration caused to local drivers by the unexpected closure and traffic delays. Aiken police were reported to be involved in defusing the situation.
Background Information on Highway Safety
This latest incident adds to a string of accidents on this particular stretch of highway, raising questions about safety protocols and the measures in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Traffic safety experts have pointed out that ongoing vigilance is required to ensure the safety of both truck drivers and everyday motorists.
Cleanup Efforts
Once environmental officials arrived at the scene, they began assessing the spill and coordinating cleanup operations. Their presence signifies the seriousness of the incident, as used motor oil can pose significant environmental risks if not managed properly.
The community and local authorities are now left to address the implications of this accident, fostering discussions about the need for more stringent safety measures for large vehicles on highways.
Key Takeaways
- Eastbound I-20 blocked for several hours; reopened by 6:09 p.m.
- Tanker carried 2,400 gallons of used motor oil, with 100 gallons spilled.
- Detours implemented for traffic headed towards Columbia.
- Significant history of accidents involving big-rigs in the area.
FAQs
What caused the tanker to overturn on I-20?
The tanker overturned after a collision with a red pickup truck, causing the driver to lose control and veer into the median.
What were the environmental impacts of this incident?
Approximately 100 gallons of used motor oil spilled onto the highway, prompting a hazardous materials team to respond and manage the cleanup.
Were there any injuries reported from the accident?
Yes, the driver was trapped initially but managed to escape. Afterward, they sustained injuries that required treatment.
Chart of Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Wednesday, approx. 12:30 p.m. |
| Location | I-20 near Mile Marker 22 |
| Substance involved | Used motor oil |
| Amount spilled | Approx. 100 gallons |
| Tanker capacity | 2,400 gallons |
| Area Traffic Status | Eastbound lanes were closed; detour in effect |
| Injuries | Driver injured but rescued |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tanker Truck Overturns on Interstate 20 Near Aiken
Overturned Tanker Causes I-20 Eastbound Closure in Aiken
Overturned Tanker Causes Traffic Shutdown on I-20
Fire Contained at Bridgestone Plant in Graniteville
Overpass Collapse Causes Major Traffic Disruptions in Graniteville
Fatal Collision and Reckless Driving Raise Safety Concerns in Aiken
Aiken County Announces Reduced Cleanup Costs from Hurricane Helene
Federal Funding Secured for Old Vaucluse Road Bridge Reconstruction
Governor McMaster Announces Replacement of I-20 Overpass Bridge
Governor McMaster Activates Emergency Order for Bridge Replacement
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Tanker Flips Over Closing Eastbound I-20 Aiken County
- Wikipedia: Tanker Truck Accident
- WJBF: I-20 Eastbound Lanes Closed in SC at Exit 22 Due to Crash
- Google Search: I-20 accidents South Carolina
- WFXG: Bridge Deemed Total Loss after Fuel Truck Crash on I-20 in Aiken County
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Highway Safety
- WACH: Road Closures and Detour on I-20 after Tractor-Trailer Hit
- Google News: Tanker Truck Accidents
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
