A semi-truck crash at a Love’s Travel Stop in Grand Junction, Colorado, left one truck overturned and a driver facing DUI charges. Authorities say 62-year-old Joseph Kelly was taken into custody Tuesday night following the collision.
Semi-Truck Collision at Love’s Travel Stop
Police responded to Love’s Travel Stop on 22 Rd around 9 p.m. after reports of a crash involving two semi-trucks. According to the Grand Junction Police Department, one truck struck another, causing it to flip over. The force of the impact left the scene in disarray, with responders working to clear the wreckage.
Witnesses at the truck stop reported hearing a loud bang before seeing one of the trucks overturned. Emergency personnel rushed both drivers to the hospital for evaluation. Fortunately, no life-threatening injuries were reported.
DUI and Careless Driving Charges
Authorities arrested Kelly at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence and careless driving. He was booked into the Mesa County Detention Facility, where he awaits further legal proceedings. Investigators have not released details about Kelly’s blood alcohol content at the time of the crash.
DUI-related accidents involving commercial vehicles raise serious safety concerns. Given the size and weight of semi-trucks, impaired driving can lead to catastrophic consequences. Law enforcement officials stress the importance of strict regulations and regular monitoring of commercial drivers.
Impact on Traffic and Business
The accident caused temporary delays in and around the Love’s Travel Stop. While no major roadways were blocked, truckers using the stop for rest and refueling experienced disruptions. Cleanup crews worked through the night to remove debris and restore normal operations.
- Law enforcement redirected traffic within the travel stop to ensure safety.
- Tow trucks were deployed to remove the overturned semi.
- Business at the stop remained partially operational despite the incident.
Grand Junction officials confirmed that the affected area has since reopened, but the crash serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with impaired driving.
DUI Arrests Among Commercial Drivers
DUI incidents involving commercial truck drivers are relatively rare, but when they occur, they carry severe legal and financial consequences. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), commercial drivers are held to stricter blood alcohol limits than regular motorists.
| Regulation | Commercial Drivers | Non-Commercial Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Legal BAC Limit | 0.04% | 0.08% |
| License Suspension | Immediate disqualification | Varies by state |
| Fines & Penalties | Harsher penalties | Standard DUI penalties |
A DUI conviction for a commercial driver can result in loss of their commercial driver’s license (CDL), heavy fines, and even jail time. Industry experts emphasize the importance of ongoing alcohol and substance abuse awareness training to prevent such incidents.
What’s Next for the Investigation?
Authorities will continue their investigation into the circumstances leading up to the crash. Toxicology reports and further assessments will determine Kelly’s exact level of impairment. Meanwhile, both trucking companies involved in the crash may face insurance claims and potential liability issues.
Grand Junction Police urge drivers to report suspected impaired driving and remind all motorists—especially those operating large commercial vehicles—of the dangers of getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.
