APPLETON — An empty logging trailer being towed by an International truck tractor took out a pole on Route 131 in Appleton early Monday morning, knocking out power to Appleton Village School, among others in the neighborhood.

Knox County Sheriff's Deputy Matt Elwell responded to the scene and determined that Brian Soiett was driving a 2001 International big rig towing a 48-foot-long log trailer north on Route 131 around 6:20 a.m. when the accident occurred.

Soiett said he was descending the hill just past the Route 105 intersection when the steering malfunctioned, causing the trailer to swing away from the truck to the right. The trailer ultimately struck a utility pole and a guardrail before Soiett was able to bring the truck to a safe stop.

Soiett was uninjured, though he was reportedly "shook up" and checked out by Union EMS. Appleton Fire Department responded for traffic control, due to downed wires blocking the road.

Those downed wires knocked out power to the school until around noon, causing cancellation for students.

Central Maine Power was called to replace the pole and the truck and trailer, after being inspected by Commercial Motor Carrier Inspector Dan Russell, was towed by All Directions.

Editorial Director Holly S. Edwards can be reached by email at hollyedwards@penbaypilot.com or by calling 207-706-6655.