Police and emergency services attend serious truck rollover on the Lyell Highway at Lawitta
UPDATED: A man working just metres from the scene of a fatal truck rollover at Lawitta was one of several nearby residents who tried in vain to the save the driver.
Tasmania
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UPDATED: A MAN working just metres from the scene of a fatal truck rollover at Lawitta was one of several nearby residents who tried in vain to the save the driver.
Emergency services were called to reports of a single truck rollover on the Lyell Highway, just past Oakdale Road, about 1pm today.
Sergeant Chris Hey said the 150-tonne white Mitsubishi horse transport truck had been travelling in an easterly direction when it veered off the road and continued a short distance along an embankment.
“Given the steepness of the embankment, it has tipped onto the driver’s side,” he said.
“Assistance from nearby residents was very quick and the driver and sole occupant of the truck, a 55-year-old male from the North of the state, was treated by Ambulance Tasmania, however died at the scene.
“There was actually a resident working just on the other side of the embankment when the impact occurred and he was one of the first who assisted.
“It must be said that he was extremely lucky. He wasn’t injured but it obviously would have given him a fair fright.”
A horse, which was travelling in the truck at the time of the crash, was tonight being checked over by a vet but appeared to have escaped with only minor scratches.
The Lyell Highway remained closed between Oakdale Road and Lawitta Road until about 6.20pm. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still being investigated.
Sergeant Hey said it was not believed speed, alcohol or drugs were a factor.
“Witnesses have indicated that the vehicle was travelling very slowly just prior to the accident,” Sergeant Hey said.
“One of the other things that no doubt will be looked at is the potential of a medical episode prior to the accident.”
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Anyone who saw the vehicle before the crash should contact Tasmania Police on 131 444
EARLIER: A MAN has died after a truck rollover on the Lyell Highway at Lawitta.
Emergency services were first called to the Derwent Valley crash scene just after 1pm.
The highway is expected to remain closed for at least 90 minutes between Oakdale Rd and Lawitta Rd while investigations continue.
Motorists in the area are asked to divert along Lawitta Road until the scene is cleared.
EARLIER:
PART of the Lyell Highway has been closed as police investigate a serious truck rollover at Lawitta.
Tasmanian Police earlier said one person reportedly remained in the truck but no further update could be provided on their condition.
The highway is closed between Oakdale Road and Lawitta Road.
Motorists in the area are asked to divert along Lawitta Road until the scene is cleared.
More to come …
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