Complex Recovery Operation After Truck Accident on B18: Ten Tons of Food Transferred

Sat 21st Feb, 2026

A significant traffic incident occurred in Kaumberg on Friday morning when a heavy goods vehicle overturned on the B18, causing major disruptions and initiating a complex recovery operation. The accident unfolded in the context of an existing closure of the A21 motorway, which increased traffic volume on the B18 as drivers sought alternative routes.

Due to the closure of the A21, authorities were unable to immediately clear the accident site. Maintaining traffic flow on the B18 was essential, as the road was serving as a crucial detour for vehicles that would otherwise have used the motorway. As a result, the recovery of the overturned truck was delayed, requiring additional planning and coordination from emergency services and recovery teams on site.

After the initial assessment, it became clear that the truck was transporting a substantial load of food products. In order to enable a safe and efficient removal of the damaged vehicle, approximately ten tons of food items had to be transferred from the affected truck to another replacement vehicle. This process was managed with care to prevent further loss or contamination of the goods, and to ensure that the recovery operation could proceed without additional hazards on the roadway.

The recovery effort involved the deployment of specialized cranes, provided by a professional recovery company. These cranes were essential for lifting and removing the damaged truck and its trailer from the road once the cargo had been safely offloaded. The operation required precise coordination between the crane operators, road authorities, and emergency response personnel to ensure that the site was cleared as quickly and safely as possible.

The local fire brigade from Kaumberg played a critical role throughout the incident. Their responsibilities included assisting the crane teams during the recovery, managing traffic to minimize congestion, and securing the scene to protect both the emergency workers and the general public. The fire brigade remained on site until the operation was completed.

The entire recovery operation extended into the evening hours, with the road only being fully cleared after all cargo had been transferred and the damaged vehicle removed. The collaborative efforts of all involved agencies allowed for the safe restoration of traffic on the B18, minimizing the wider impact on regional transportation networks.

This incident highlights the importance of coordinated emergency response measures, particularly when infrastructure disruptions force significant changes in traffic patterns. It also underscores the logistical challenges faced when dealing with accidents involving large commercial vehicles carrying perishable goods. No injuries were reported as a result of the accident, and the recovery operation concluded without further incident.


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