A major highway in Pamlico County is open to traffic once again after an overturned tanker truck shut it down for most of the morning.

The accident happened east of Olympia Road near Reelsboro. The truck from Eastern Propane of Bayboro was 80% full. A second tanker had to be brought in to transfer the propane before the truck could be uprighted and towed away.

The highway reopened around 1:30 p.m.

The driver, 40 year old James Simmons of New Bern, was transported to CarolinaEast Medical Center and later released. Troopers say the driver has been charged with an unsafe movement violation.

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An overturned fuel truck has closed down Highway 55 in Pamlico County and nearby homes are being evacuated.

The accident happened east of Olympia Road near Reelsboro, with both lanes closed down. The DOT says they expect the highway to reopen this afternoon.

Troopers say the tanker is from Eastern Propane of Bayboro. They say the propane is not leaking, but homes within a half-mile are being evacuated as a safety precaution.

The Highway Patrol says the tanker must be emptied before they're able to put it back upright.

A detour has been set up. For those traveling east they should turn onto Olympia Road to Walker Road into Beaufort County to Highway 306. Drivers should then take Highway 306 south back into Pamlico County. Those westbound should take Highway 306, then Walker Road to Olympia Road.

The driver, 40 year old James Simons of New Bern, was transported to CarolinaEast Medical Center. Troopers say charges are pending in the accident.