Unaware Driver Damages Dozen Overpasses on NY Thruway

Key points

• On March 18, 2026, a tractor-trailer carrying an excavator on a flatbed struck multiple overpasses between Exits 30 and 36 on the New York State Thruway.
• The driver, Oleksander Tarakanovskyi, allegedly did not realize the load had hit the bridges until police stopped him at the Mattydale tandem lot in Salina.
• Tarakanovskyi was charged with second-degree reckless endangerment and issued more than 20 traffic tickets, including violations of federal commercial motor vehicle safety regulations.
• The Thruway Authority’s executive director, Frank G. Hoare, stated that the driver’s lack of awareness regarding the damage was 'beyond comprehension.'
• State Police Major Brian T. Ferrone described the incident as 'reckless, egregious behavior' that will not be tolerated.
• Tarakanovskyi was released with an appearance ticket for Salina Town Court on April 8, 2026.

Background

Bridge strikes are a recurring issue in road transport, often stemming from failures in pre-trip height measurements and route planning. A 2013 study by the City College of New York noted that New York bridges experienced approximately 200 strikes annually, with many concentrated on specific structures. In the US, there is no single federal vehicle-height limit, but state limits for standard commercial vehicles typically range from 13 feet 6 inches to 14 feet. On the New York State Thruway, loads 13 feet 7 inches or higher require a special hauling permit. Recent incidents, such as an excavator strike on I-65 in Alabama in August 2026, underscore the ongoing risks associated with oversize loads and infrastructure damage.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the critical importance of pre-trip height checks, approved routes, and permit compliance for oversize loads. The 60-mile trail of damage before detection exposes vulnerabilities in current oversight mechanisms and the potential for significant infrastructure damage when safeguards fail. It underscores the need for consistent enforcement of height regulations and the use of detection systems to prevent repetitive bridge strikes.

What to watch

Tarakanovskyi is scheduled to appear in Salina Town Court on April 8, 2026. Authorities may review the specific circumstances of the incident to determine if additional penalties or regulatory changes are necessary. The Thruway Authority and State Police will likely assess the extent of the damage to the overpasses and coordinate with contractors for repairs.