Tractor-trailer dangles from I-75 overpass in Manatee County

A tractor-trailer dangled for hours from the northbound bridge of Interstate 75 at exit 224 this morning, snarling morning traffic. The driver received minor injuries, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. 

According to an incident report from the FHP, driver Troy Betts of Sarasota was northbound on the bridge over the Manatee River when a white car changed lanes in front of his 2006 Peterbilt tractor-trailer rig. 

In the rain and with wet pavement, Betts tried to avoid the car, but the truck jacknifed on the slick roadway of the bridge. hitting the inside retaining wall and climbing over part of it. The cab hung over the water, first secured by first responders, then ultimately removed. 

Traffic was backed up for four miles as rescuers brought Betts to safety, then cleared the wreckage. 

The incident was reported at 7:18 a.m., and troopers reported traffic was flowing again by 9:10 a.m.

The crash remains under investigation.