Dump Truck Driver Dies on Kentucky Interstate in Single Vehicle Collision, Kentucky
Kentucky Case Report: 19KY045
Release Date: December 11, 2019
The following report is the product of our Cooperative State partner and is presented here in its original unedited form from the state. The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the individual Cooperative State partner and do not necessarily reflect the views or policy of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
SUMMARY
On Tuesday, August 20, 2019, a 63-year-old male dump truck driver (the victim) was traveling from an out-of-state location on a major, four-lane interstate to his Kentucky based business. While en route, the drivers-side (front) steer tire failed and disintegrated. As a result, the driver lost control of the vehicle, entered the median, crossed the opposing lanes of travel, and crashed into an earth embankment.
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
Key contributing factors identified in this investigation include:
- Equipment failure
- Failure to wear seat belt
- Lack of median barrier
RECOMMENDATIONS
Kentucky FACE investigator concluded that, to help prevent similar occurrences, employers should:
- Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators should utilize seat belts when driving commercial vehicles.
- CMV operators should complete driver vehicle inspection reports on all equipment prior to operating commercial vehicles.
- CMV operators should participate in a defensive driving course.
- The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet should install cable median barriers on interstates.
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