Deputy Injured In Tanker Truck Crash

Tanker trucks are heavy vehicles that weigh tens of thousands of pounds. Getting involved in an accident with one of them can be a dangerous or even deadly situation.

A Pinellas County deputy suffered serious injuries after a crash with a tanker truck in Pasco County. Fortunately, he is expected to be OK.

The accident occurred on the morning of October 1 in Shady Hills. An AmeriGas Propane tanker truck was backing into a driveway off Hudson Avenue when it hit the deputy’s marked patrol vehicle, a Chevy Tahoe SUV. The Tahoe traveled under the trailer portion of the tanker truck.

Emergency crews responded and were able to get the deputy, a 32-year-old man, out of the vehicle and to the hospital. The deputy suffered serious head injuries but is in stable condition.

The driver of the tanker truck was not injured in the crash.

The deputy’s current condition is unknown. He has been with the sheriff’s office since 2019. He was on his way to his assigned shift when the accident occurred.

Crashes Involving Tanker Trucks

Crashes involving tanker trucks are particularly dangerous due to the unique nature of these vehicles and their cargo. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Cargo hazards. Tanker trucks often carry volatile or hazardous materials. When a crash occurs, spills can result in toxic exposure, explosions, or severe fires.
• Rollover risks. Due to the high center of gravity, tanker trucks are more prone to rollovers. This can happen during sharp turns or when the vehicle is overloaded.
• Explosion and fire. The potential for fires and explosions is significantly higher when tanker trucks carrying flammable materials are involved in accidents. Even small leaks can lead to devastating outcomes if sparks are present.
• Environmental damage. Spilled chemicals or fuels from tanker trucks can result in significant environmental hazards, including soil contamination, water pollution, and harm to wildlife.
• Road closures. Accidents involving tanker trucks can lead to extensive road closures, as authorities may need to secure the area for hazardous material cleanups or to prevent fires.
• Driver fatigue. Like other commercial vehicles, tanker trucks require skilled drivers. Fatigue or driver error can lead to accidents, particularly given the vehicle’s weight, length, and complex handling.
• Weather conditions. Poor weather, such as rain, snow, or fog, can make controlling a tanker truck more difficult. Slick roads increase the risk of losing control, especially with liquid cargo that can shift unpredictably inside the tank.

Seek Help for Your Personal Injury Case

Truck accidents should not be taken lightly. Even a seemingly minor crash can lead to serious injuries.

In a crash? Get the help you need from the Dade City & Zephyrhills truck accident attorneys from Madonna Law. Truck accidents can be tricky, but we have the resources and experience to aggressively pursue your claim for maximum compensation. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (800) 557-0411.

Source:

fox13news.com/news/pinellas-county-deputy-seriously-injured-crash-involving-tanker-truck-pasco-county-road