Caltrans to add new signs to Bay Bridge

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- There have been more than 40 crashes on a new S-curve on the Bay Bridge over San Francisco Bay where a truck plunged over the edge this week, officials say.

The curved area opened in September, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Officials said 43 crashes have been reported, but Monday's was the first fatality.

While investigators blame the Monday crash on speeding and a shifting load, Caltrans plans to add new signs warning drivers of the curve and of the 40 mph speed limit. Bart Ney, a spokesman for the agency, told reporters Monday there will also be reflective stripes and radar boards that tell drivers what speed they are doing.

The truck went over a concrete railing and fell to Yerba Buena Island, disintegrating when it hit the ground.

Sgt. Trent Cross of the California Highway Patrol said the driver was doing about 50 mph.

"We don't believe it's a design flaw," he said. "There's nothing tricky or complicated about the curve. I can stand here with confidence and say that if you drive the posted speed limit, you will make it through the curve safely, just as thousands of drivers do every day."