This week, a commercial semi-truck travelling northbound through the Grapevine made use of the Runaway Truck Escape Ramp, preventing an accident, officials said.

The runaway ramps used are located on the east and west sides of the Northbound 5 Freeway where it descends into Kern County in the event a large vehicle loses its brakes, according to California Highway Patrol, (CHP) officials. 

“It is unknown at this time what caused the truck driver to need to use the ramp, but this commercial vehicle was travelling at such a high rate of speed prior to entering the ramp it almost travelled to the end of the ramp,” CHP officials said. 

The northbound lanes of the 5 Freeway contain a 35 mph commercial zone which is strictly enforced to ensure the safety of all motorists. 

The northbound grade contains two Runaway Truck Escape ramps, one east of the freeway and one ramp to the west. 

CHP Tejon Area Officers are using this incident as a reminder to commercial drivers that performing the pre-trip inspection prior to travel is of the utmost importance. 

Drivers are reminded not to rush the inspection and to make sure the equipment is in good working order and the load is secure before hitting the road. 

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