Utility Worker Dangles Above Road in Bucket After Being Hit by Truck While Fixing Stoplight

Transport Worker Rescued After Truck Collision in Louisiana

In a heart-stopping incident in Louisiana, a transportation worker was struck by a truck while carrying out maintenance work on a stoplight. The dramatic event was captured on camera as the worker found himself hanging above the road after the truck slammed into him.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) employee was working in a bucket fixing a traffic light in Denham Springs, located about 20 miles from Baton Rouge, when a large truck hit the bucket during a left turn. This collision left the worker dangling from his harness, but fortunately, he sustained only minor injuries. An investigation into the incident is currently underway.

The shocking footage of the incident was captured by a dashcam from another driver. As the truck collided with the worker’s bucket, it caused the bucket to collapse, leaving the worker hanging upside down as the crane arm partially broke off. Debris and tools scattered on the street, creating a scene of chaos and uncertainty for onlookers.

Local resident Bill Atkinson, who shared the video on social media, expressed his disbelief at witnessing such a frightening event while waiting at a traffic light. The Denham Springs Police Department (DSPD) responded to the scene promptly, confirming that the worker, employed by DOTD, suffered minor injuries but did not require hospitalization.

Authorities highlighted the safety measures in place for transportation workers, stating that wearing a harness while in a bucket truck is mandatory. While signage and lane closures may not always be present at construction sites, safety precautions remain a top priority for the DOTD to prevent similar accidents in the future.

Following the incident, the DOTD issued a reminder to the public regarding maintenance work on roadways, emphasizing the importance of attentive driving, adherence to traffic laws, and caution around work zones. Safety precautions, such as signage and lane closures, are designed to alert drivers to potential hazards and ensure the well-being of both workers and motorists.

Incidents like these serve as a reminder of the risks that transportation workers face daily while performing essential maintenance tasks. The swift response from emergency services and adherence to safety protocols played a crucial role in ensuring the worker’s well-being despite the perilous circumstances.

As investigations continue into the collision, authorities are focusing on improving safety measures and raising awareness about the importance of vigilance and caution on the roads. The successful rescue of the transportation worker underscores the significance of prioritizing safety in work environments to prevent accidents and protect workers’ lives.