Semi-trailer crashes over side of Floodway bridge near Winnipeg

Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash of a semi-trailer, which went over the side of the Red River Floodway bridge and trapped the driver, RCMP say.

It happened around 1:30 a.m. Wednesday on Highway 59, just south of Winnipeg.

The semi, which was not hauling any cargo, went through the guard rail and down the embankment.

Emergency crews rescued the driver — a 59-year-old man from the town of Ste. Anne — who was unable to get out of the truck cab on his own.

He was transported to hospital and is listed in stable condition, RCMP said.

There is no word on any charges.

A crane was brought in to lift the damaged truck back onto the bridge to be hauled away.

One of the northbound lanes of Highway 59 remained closed for several hours, into the morning rush hour, as crews worked to clear the scene.

Traffic at one point was backed up for half of a kilometre.