An Illinois truck driver was injured early Thursday evening when, according to the Highway Patrol, his large truck ran off U.S. 36 in southern DeKalb County, struck three highway signs and a culvert, and overturned onto its side.

The Patrol said 60-year old Lee Davito of Bloomington, Illinois sustained MODERATE injuries and was taken by ambulance to Heartland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. The accident occurred on westbound Highway 36 just east of Osborn.

The State Patrol noted the tractor-trailer was loaded with boxes of soybeans, most of which remained IN the truck. The driving lane of U.S. 36 was closed for several hours on Thursday night for cleanup and removal of the truck. The big rig was demolished. The driver was wearing a seat belt.