A fiery rollover crash involving a tractor trailer rig hauling cars Thursday blocked both directions of travel on the Ohio Turnpike, authorities said.

Smoke from the fire impaired visibility in both directions and debris covered the roadway, according to Turnpike Headquarters in Berea, Ohio.

The eastbound lanes reopened by 9 a.m.; one westbound lane reopened by mid-morning.

The crash happened at 6:49 a.m. in the westbound lanes between State Route 2 and U.S. 20 when the semi rolled over, losing its load and catching on fire, the Turnpike reported.

The driver escaped the wreckage with only minor injuries, authorities said.

The Turnpike is closed between exit 52 at Airport Highway and exit 59 in Maumee; motorists are advised to use alternate routes.

The crash is under investigation.

First Published October 27, 2011, 12:11 p.m.