Truck driver dies after rollover on the Arthur Highway

UPDATED: Failure to wear a “properly fitted and adjusted” seat belt is believed to be a contributing factor in the death of a truck driver on the Arthur Highway.

Fatal truck accident on the Arthur Highway Eaglehawk Neck. Picture: 7 TASMANIA

A TRUCK driver who died in a crash on the Arthur Highway was “thrown from the vehicle” after he lost control and left the road near Eaglehawk Neck, police say.

The crash was called in by a passer-by just after 5.30am on Monday.

The 42-year-old man from Sorell was declared dead at the scene by paramedics.

The sole passenger, a 68-year-old man also from Sorell, was flown to the Royal Hobart Hospital in a stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.

Fatal truck accident on the Arthur Highway Eaglehawk Neck. Picture: 7 TASMANIA

Acting Sergeant Adam Hall said the driver, who was travelling north towards Murdunna, lost control of the white 2004 Volvo truck while attempting to negotiate a right-hand curve in the road.

At the time of the crash the truck was towing a loaded tri-axle semi-trailer carrying chickens. No other vehicles were involved in the incident.

“As the driver lost control, the vehicle left the road surface and overturned onto its passenger side,” Acting Sergeant Hall said.

“As a result of the crash the male driver was thrown from the vehicle.

“Tasmania Police express their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.”

Police, Ambulance Tasmania, the fire service and SES all attended the scene.

The crash site was closed until 6pm on Monday while Police Forensic and Crash Investigation Services personnel examined the scene.

MORE NEWS:

JET SKI RIDER CRASHED ON DARK NIGHT

LEAVES SETTLE AFTER WILD WEEKEND WEATHER

VIRTUAL PUB CRAWL SERIES PACKS A PUNCH

Heavy machinery, including two cranes and several trucks, were required to remove the truck and its load from the highway before it could be reopened.

“Initial investigations indicate that the failure to wear a properly fitted and adjusted seat belt is a contributing factor in the man’s death, the use of alcohol or drugs are not suspected,” Acting Sergeant Hall said.

“The reason the truck left the road is still being investigated.”

Police are calling for the driver of a light-coloured small sedan, which was travelling south at the time, to come forward as the occupant/s may have witnessed the truck failing to negotiate the curve in the road. This vehicle is not believed to be involved in the cause of the crash.

Anyone who saw the vehicle prior to the collision is asked to contact Acting Sergeant Adam Hall at Southern Crash Investigation Services on 62302111 or by contacting Crime Stoppers.