Illegal Use Of Maine I-95 Crossover Leads To Multi-Car Crash

If you have spent more than a mile or two on an interstate highway, you have seen those "crossovers" between lanes.  Basically, they are meant to allow police and other first responder vehicles the opportunity to quickly travel back and forth on the highway.

They are not meant to be used by the public.  In fact, it is illegal for civilians to use these crossovers.

What happened earlier today is a good reminder of what that is.

According to a press release from the Maine Department of Public Safety, at around 11:45 AM this morning (July 3rd), 75 year old Larry DiPietro, of Augusta, was going northbound when he attempted to slow his 2005 Hyundai so he could illegally enter one of those crossovers.

His slowing down caused three vehicles, all attempting to avoid him, to crash.  While DiPietro was not injured, several other people had to be taken to the hospital.  Fortunately, as we understand it, their injuries were only minor.

DiPietro was charged with driving to endanger.

The incident happened at mile marker 146, near Pittsfield.

The press release goes on to say:

The Maine State Police would like to remind drivers that using crossovers is not permitted for any reason whatsoever. It is illegal and highly dangerous to everyone driving on the interstate. We ask that people drive responsibly for the safety of all motorists.

If you are hitting the road for the 4th of July holiday, please be safe and please drive like you are friends with everyone else on the road.