Semi-tractor trailer rig overturned

A semi tractor-trailer rig loaded with powdered concrete overturned Thursday morning on Spooner Summit, injuring the driver and closing the eastbound lanes of Highway 50 for most of the day.

The truck driver, Pearl Espinoza Salazar, 31, was taken to Washoe Medical Center by Care Flight with head injuries, said Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Patrick McGill. No other injuries were reported.

Salazar, of Sacramento, Calif., was treated and released Friday afternoon, said Washoe Medical Center spokeswoman Corrinne Cassell.

About 8:45 a.m., Espinoza lost control of the 1999 Kenworth tractor, which was pulling two tank trailers filled with 50,000 pounds of powered concrete.

The truck jackknifed and overturned onto its left side, blocking both east bound travel lanes. Traffic behind the truck initially was diverted around the wreck on the eastbound shoulder, but eventually troopers routed traffic to Carson City over Kingsbury Grade. Traffic from Lake Tahoe to Reno was routed over the Mount Rose Highway.

The truck had to be emptied of the concrete powder before it could be turned upright.

Nevada Department of Transportation officials reopened the eastbound lanes of Highway 50 at 5:45 p.m. Thursday.

McGill said an investigation is ongoing on whether mechanical failure or driver error caused the crash.