Grain Truck Driver Killed at Train Crossing

On a clear fall Wednesday afternoon, at 3:45 p.m., a 69 year-old driver of a semi-trailer loaded with soybeans was killed when he turned off a two lane state highway and into a farm driveway, directly into the path of an oncoming freight train. The train and truck were both travelling west on parallel pathways; the truck driver was struck on the blind spot of his cab’s passenger side by the train. The truck driver was not wearing his seatbelt and was ejected from the cab. The train finally came to a stop at the next intersection, approximately a half a mile down the tracks. To prevent future occurrences of similar incidents, the following recommendations have been made: Recommendation No. 1: When approaching train tracks, truck drivers and farmers should obey all traffic guidelines and regulations pertaining to railroad track crossings. Recommendation No. 2: Drivers should always wear seat belts while operating any vehicle. Recommendation No. 3: Crossings should be marked and guard arms installed at all crossings. Recommendation No. 4: Truck drivers and farmers should consider attending an “Operation Lifesaver” education program in communities where railroad traffic is present