A recent incident highlights the perils of truck driving on icy roads, particularly in Alaska. On September 4, a semi-truck driver found himself in a life-threatening situation when his truck veered off the Seward Highway and plunged into the frigid waters of the northern Gulf of Alaska, as reported by the Anchorage Daily News. Emergency responders discovered the driver still in the truck cab when they arrived at the scene:
Upon arriving, the Girdwood Fire and Rescue teams found the driver trapped inside the cab. Using a rescue throwbag, they successfully brought him to safety onshore, according to a Wednesday update. The responders noted that driving conditions were poor, with strong winds and heavy rain.
The truck went off-course in a section of the highway where the guardrail had been removed because of ongoing construction.
According to a police spokesperson, the driver lost control of the vehicle before it entered the water. Investigations revealed there was no evidence of negligence on the driver’s part that led to the loss of control. The driver, identified as Travis Corgan, sustained only minor injuries and is now recovering at home, as confirmed by his family. On the afternoon of September 5, authorities along with a local towing service returned to retrieve the submerged truck. Girdwood Fire and Rescue Chief Michelle Weston praised Corgan’s driving abilities, stating, “It could have ended very differently,” and expressed astonishment that the truck managed to remain upright throughout the ordeal.
Driving trucks in icy conditions presents serious risks, compounded by the fact that many drivers are on the road earning a low income. Some find themselves struggling with debts they can’t escape until they reimburse their companies for their training expenses.
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