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The traffic signals at the intersection of Lake and Main streets, Warsaw, are not working today because of a traffic accident Monday afternoon.
A semi truck and trailer hit the pole that holds the traffic signal light on the northeast corner of the intersection at 1:30 p.m. Monday.
The driver of the truck, Dustan R. Mertens, 40, Green Lake, Wis., told police that he got lost in Warsaw and was trying to turn right onto Lake Street as he looked for Ind. 15. According to police reports, Mertens turned sharply to avoid a car in the southbound lane and his trailer struck the signal pole.
The traffic pole was broken at its base, and it leaned over into the intersection, with the signal light resting on the ground.
No other vehicles or people were injured. The damage to the top of Merten's trailer was estimated at less than $750. The damage to the city's sign and post was estimated at $2,500-$5,000.
An employee of the Warsaw street department said a company was called in to replace the signal light and bring a new pole. It is expected that the signals at the intersection will be operating again later today.
The intersection is currently marked with stop signs to make it a four-way stop on Lake and Main streets.
