An 18-wheeler overturned on the westbound Exit 85 bridge over U.S. 74 Monday afternoon, snarling traffic for about four hours. The driver, Paul Choyce, 62, of Sylva, was hauling a truckload of cardboard to Jackson Paper when he lost control and flipped, according to N.C. Highway Patrol reports, which noted speed may have played a role causing him to overturn and strike the bridge and guardrail, sending the materials spilling out onto the westbound lane of 74 causing significant traffic issues. The truck slid 98 feet after making contact with the guardrail, shearing off the top of the trailer. Choyce was not injured, but he was charged with exceeding the posted speed limit.
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