North Carolina Truck Driver Charged After Striking Dozens of Overpasses on Fresh York Thruway

SALINA, N.Y. — A North Carolina truck driver faces reckless endangerment charges and numerous traffic tickets after his tractor-trailer struck more than a dozen overpasses along a 60-mile stretch of the New York State Thruway. The incidents occurred on March 18, 2026, between Exits 30 and 36.

Details of the Incident

Oleksander Tarakanovskyi, 38, of North Carolina, was identified as the driver. He was operating a 2019 Freightliner hauling an over-height excavator on a flatbed trailer when the strikes occurred according to reports. Troopers located the vehicle at a tandem lot in Salina, near Syracuse, and took Tarakanovskyi into custody. New York State Police confirmed the driver struck more than a dozen overpasses.

Damage and Safety Assessment

Inspectors found mild to moderate damage to the affected overpasses. Crews are examining all impacted structures for potential structural issues. Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare stated that all bridges remain safe, but repair work will proceed as needed. No injuries were reported, and traffic was not significantly impacted.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Tarakanovskyi has been charged with second-degree reckless endangerment and issued more than 20 tickets, including violations of federal commercial motor vehicle safety regulations. Trucknews.com reports that he was released on an appearance notice and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Salina Court on April 8.

Official Statements

“Reckless and ignorant driver behavior has serious consequences,” said Hoare. “How a tractor trailer driver could be unaware that his load hit more than a dozen bridges is beyond comprehension.” New York State Police Troop T Commander Major Brian T. Ferrone added that reckless behavior would not be tolerated.