The driver apparently escaped the flames and was rushed to Nassau University Medical Center with third-degree burns.
The expressway was closed in both directions between exits 43 and 44 for about two hours. Eastbound lanes were closed from the time of the accident until just before 5:30 p.m.
The tractor-trailer appeared to be hauling garbage, and trash was strewn across the eastbound lanes.
NEW YORK AND TRI-STATE AREA NEWS
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