A commercial truck accident resulted in a significant diesel spill on the Queen Elizabeth Highway (QEW) in Burlington on Thursday afternoon, causing major disruptions for Fort Erie-bound traffic. The incident occurred on January 8, 2026, and was confirmed by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
Details of the QEW Truck Accident
According to police reports, a large truck lost control while traveling on the QEW. The vehicle veered off the roadway and became wedged on a cement guardrail. The crash caused the truck's fuel tanks to rupture, spilling a substantial amount of diesel fuel across the highway lanes. The collision was reported in the late afternoon, around 4:48 PM EST.
Emergency Response and Cleanup Efforts
The OPP, along with Halton Region emergency services, responded swiftly to the scene. The primary focus was on securing the area and initiating environmental containment procedures for the fuel spill. Crews worked to prevent the diesel from entering nearby storm drains or waterways.
The Fort Erie-bound lanes of the QEW were closed to facilitate the cleanup and recovery operation. Traffic was heavily impacted, with motorists advised to seek alternate routes. There was no immediate information released regarding potential injuries to the driver.
Ongoing Investigation and Traffic Impact
The OPP's Highway Safety Division is investigating the cause of the crash. Factors such as road conditions, vehicle speed, and driver error will be examined. The cleanup process is expected to be lengthy due to the hazardous nature of the spill, and lane closures may persist into the evening hours.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for hazardous material spills on major transportation corridors. It underscores the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices, especially for commercial carriers. Commuters are urged to check local traffic reports from the OPP or Ministry of Transportation for the latest updates on lane reopenings.
