Fatal PA Tanker Truck Collision Highlights Vehicle Dangers

A tanker truck and a car collided in Pennsylvania in the early morning hours of Monday, August 29, 2011 resulting in the tragic death of the driver of the car. The collision occurred on the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike between the Lansdale and Quakertown exists in Montgomery County. From the photos released of the collision, it appears that the tanker truck barreled into the rear of the mid-size car causing almost of half the vehicle to be obliterated despite the cab of the tanker truck remaining largely intact. The photos depict a violent collision that may have been caused as a result of the tanker truck’s inability to stop in a short enough distance to avoid colliding the car.

This collision highlights the dangers associated with tanker trucks on the roadways. Tanker trucks are vehicles designed to carry liquefied loads. They can be extremely difficult to drive due to their high center of gravity. Additionally, their stopping distances may vary depending on the volume of liquid in their large tank. As a result, tanker drivers must be cognizant to maintain adequate distance to permit for stopping when following other vehicles on the roadway. If adequate distance is not maintained, rear end accidents can result. And, as is evidenced by the recent accident in Pennsylvania, there is no such thing as a fender bender or small accident when it comes to trucks of this size and weight.