Aiken, September 4, 2025
News Summary
A tanker truck carrying 2,400 gallons of used motor oil overturned on Interstate 20, causing significant traffic delays and the hospitalization of the driver. The incident occurred around midday, leading to closures of the eastbound lanes for nearly six hours while first responders managed a hazardous spill and traffic detours were implemented. A witness assisted the trapped driver, highlighting quick emergency response efforts amidst ongoing investigations into roadway safety.
Aiken – A tanker truck overturned on Interstate 20 near Exit 22 on September 3, 2025, resulting in significant traffic delays and the hospitalization of the driver. The incident occurred around 12:20 p.m., leading to the closure of the eastbound lanes of the highway for most of the day. It wasn’t until 6:09 p.m. that the road was reopened after the truck was righted and environmental cleanup was completed.
The tanker was transporting approximately 2,400 gallons of used motor oil at the time of the accident. First responders quickly arrived on the scene and worked to contain a leak of at least 100 gallons of the motor oil that had spilled. Due to the hazardous nature of the materials involved, a hazardous materials team was subsequently called in to manage the situation.
In a heroic act, a witness, who also worked as a truck driver, provided crucial assistance to the trapped driver. After breaking the window of the overturned tanker, the witness used a belt as a tourniquet to stop the bleeding from the driver’s arm. Although one person was initially trapped in the truck, they were able to escape with help.
Traffic in the area was severely affected, with eastbound travelers being detoured off I-20 at Wire Road for those headed towards Columbia. Aiken County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation into the accident is still ongoing as of September 3. This area of Interstate 20 near Aiken Airport has been noted as a frequent site for accidents involving big rigs, raising concerns about roadway safety.
The weather conditions during the incident included sunny skies with a high of 87°F and a low near 65°F, with winds blowing from the south at 5 to 10 mph.
Impact on Traffic
The closure of eastbound I-20 caused significant delays across the area. Commuters and transport companies faced hours of traffic stoppages as authorities worked to mitigate the situation and clean up the hazardous spill.
Background on Truck Accidents
Interstate 20 near the Aiken airport has been recognized for having a higher frequency of accidents involving large trucks, prompting ongoing discussions about improving safety measures to prevent future incidents. Local authorities emphasize the need for vigilance and safety practices among all drivers, particularly those operating big rigs.
Summary
The overturned tanker truck incident on I-20 highlights the risks associated with transporting hazardous materials and the importance of swift emergency response. As investigations continue, the community remains concerned about traffic safety on this critical transportation route.
FAQ
What caused the tanker truck to overturn?
The exact cause of the tanker truck’s overturning is still under investigation by the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office.
How much motor oil was spilled?
Approximately 2,400 gallons of used motor oil were being transported, and at least 100 gallons spilled onto the roadway.
What was done to address the spill?
A hazardous materials team was called in to manage and clean up the fuel leak after first responders quickly contained the initial spill.
When did the highway reopen?
The Eastbound lanes of I-20 reopened to traffic at 6:09 p.m. after cleanup efforts were completed.
Were there any traffic detours?
Yes, eastbound traffic was detoured off I-20 at Wire Road for those heading towards Columbia.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | September 3, 2025 |
| Time of Incident | 12:20 p.m. |
| Location | I-20 near Exit 22, Aiken |
| Gallons of Oil Transported | 2,400 gallons |
| Gallons Leaked | At least 100 gallons |
| Highway Reopening Time | 6:09 p.m. |
| Intervention Details | Witness broke window and applied tourniquet |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Overturned Tanker Causes Traffic Shutdown on I-20
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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
Tragic Crash Claims Life of Young Driver in South Carolina
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
- Post and Courier: Wreck Tanker Oil Spill I-20 Aiken Truck
- WRDW: I-20 Reopens Aiken County Hours After Latest Tanker Wreck
- WJBF: Fiery Crash Shuts Down I-20 Eastbound in Aiken County
- Augusta Chronicle: How to Get Around Closed Section of I-20
- Wikipedia: Transport Accidents in the United States
- Google Search: Tanker Accident Aiken County
- Google Scholar: Tanker Accidents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Road Transport
- Google News: Tanker 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.
