Distracted driver flips dump truck
A dump TRUCK rolled over on Airport Road in Plains last week. The driver was charged with distracted driving. (Erin Jusseaume/ Clark Fork Valley Press)
The dump truck slide along the soft edges of the road before it came to a stop (Erin Jusseaume/ Clark Fork Valley Press)
Emergency crews were quick to act when hearing of the single vehicle turnover (Erin Jusseaume/ Clark Fork Valley Press)
A county truck making its way to off-load garbage at the dump last week ended up on its side after the driver reportedly reached for his cellphone.
The fixed double-axle dump truck was approaching the corners of Diehl Ranch Road via Airport Road in Plains when the driver lost control, resulting in the vehicle tipping on its side and sliding off the road.
According to Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Steve Spurr, the male driver had been reaching for his cellphone when he lost control of the truck.
The driver was checked out on scene by the local emergency responders and was cleared of any injury.
“This is another good reminder for motorists to ensure they are driving safe and to not engage in their cellphones,” expressed Spurr.
The driver was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident and will be charged with distracted driving.
Also responding to the accident scene were crews from the Plains-Paradise Rural Fire Department.