Written by the FleetEasy Team
Providing fleet services in Maple Valley and all of Washington State.

Earlier this spring, FleetEasy responded to a serious recovery on Highway 18 near 231st in Maple Valley, Washington. A Peterbilt 389 tractor-trailer had veered off the highway and over an embankment, leaving the tractor partially buried in the soft earth. The front bumper was lodged in the dirt, the passenger-side wheel assembly was badly damaged, and the fuel tank had been compromised in the impact.

This recovery required expertise, coordination, and specialized heavy-duty equipment. We dispatched Pro-Tow by FleetEasy to handle this heavy truck recovery. Here’s what went down:

Strategy and Patience to Dislodge a Tractor-Trailer

Team Pro-Tow arrived with two heavy-duty rotator crane-style wreckers, which provided the control and reach needed to maneuver the tractor safely. Operators first stabilized the scene, ensuring it was safe to begin recovery work near the damaged fuel tanks. Then, using precise rigging, the rotator gently lifted and repositioned the tractor, clearing it of the dirt and facing it toward the roadway again.

Once the tractor was secure, attention turned to the loaded trailer, which remained wedged in the embankment. We used both rotator wreckers, one positioned at the rear and one at the front, to carefully lift and guide the trailer out. Because of the angle and limited space, the crew worked in stages: move the tractor slightly, reposition, then move the trailer, repeating the process until both were safely back on solid ground.

This type of complex heavy-duty recovery needs careful calculation, constant communication, and steady control. With experienced operators and advanced rotator technology, Pro-Tow ensured the recovery was completed without further damage or secondary incidents.

Once the site was stabilized, Pro-Tow transported both the tractor and trailer to a secure yard in Maple Valley for inspection. The customer was informed, and the next step for them was to decide what to do with the cargo in the trailer.

Pro-Enviro Gets to Work on Spill Cleanup

With the vehicle recovered, Pro-Enviro by FleetEasy got to work assessing the environmental impact. A small amount of diesel had leaked from the compromised fuel tanks, seeping into the roadside ditch.

Using a Bobcat, Pro-Enviro removed the contaminated soil and vegetation, ensuring no lingering fuel would reach the storm system or any nearby waterways. Once the affected area was excavated, it was backfilled and restored as closely as possible to its natural condition. Pro-Enviro always ensures compliant spill cleanup that meets all of Washington State’s regulations.

Coordinated Fleet Support from the Company of Family

This incident demonstrates what makes FleetEasy’s Company of Family unique. Together, Pro-Tow and Pro-Enviro provided a complete fleet solution that included heavy-duty recovery and towing, environmental cleanup and spill response.

If required, Motorplex by FleetEasy could have stepped in to offer fleet repairs, including repairs to the tractor and trailer. Motorplex offers emergency roadside repairs, on-site repairs and complete fleet services in our shops in Auburn and Spokane. In this instance, the customer decided to take care of the repairs themselves.

From emergency recovery to long-term fleet care, FleetEasy’s integrated team ensures that businesses and drivers have one dependable partner for every challenge. You can count on us and our trusted network of fleet services providers for fast, professional service backed by decades of experience.

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