One-car accident blocks traffic at major Cape intersection

A one-car accident downed a utility pole at a busy Cape Girardeau intersection Wednesday afternoon.

The accident happened at Siemers Drive and William Street just before 1:30 p.m. and blocked traffic.

An officer at the scene said the driver was having medical problems while driving and drifted from the left-turn lane and struck a light pole near the Interstate 55 off-ramp.

The driver told officers and the ambulance on scene that she has a history of blackouts.

"She doesn't remember anything that happened," the police officer said.

The driver and her passenger were being examined by emergency personnel on scene and were later transported away from accident by an ambulance.

The Missouri Department of Transportation and a roadside assistance crew had the light pole moved from the off-ramp just before 2 p.m.

A second two-vehicle accident at the location, which occurred due to congested traffic, resulted in no injuries and minimal vehicle damage.

Another accident occurred at 12:05 p.m. Wednesday at the intersection of Independence Street and North Kingshighway and caused the southbound lanes of Kingshighway to close.

ehevern@semissourian.com

A two vehicle accident at the intersection of Kingshighway and Independence Street in Cape Girardeau caused the southbound lanes of Kinghighway to close Wednesday, February 3, 2010. (Laura Simon)

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