Semi Runs Down Embankment Into Little Wabash River

A trucker escaped serious injury after a wild ride this morning south of Effingham.

The trucker, 36-year-old Shawn Manion of Danville, was southbound on I-57 near the Watson-Mason interchange about 5:30am when his rig ran off the road and down a steep embankment, taking out 150 feet of guardrail in the process.  The cab of the truck ended up in the Little Wabash River.

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Manion jumped out of the window of the cab into the water and was able to swim to shore. Manion then climbed up the embankment where he was picked up by a passing motorist who notified police. Manion was walking along the shoulder of the interstate wearing only an orange T-shirt and shorts. He was taken to St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham where he was treated for hypothermia and complaints of pain.  

Manion was cited for driving while ill or fatigued and for improper lane usage.

Workers from Tri-Power estimated it would take a couple of hours or more to pull the truck and trailer from the icy waters.