Morristown, TN (January 18, 2025) – A collision involving a Hamblen County sanitation truck resulted in serious injuries Friday morning on State Route 160, just south of Interstate 81. Emergency crews responded to the scene after a southbound Ford sedan collided with the parked truck.
According to the Morristown Police Department, the sanitation truck was stopped on the side of the road with its warning flashers activated. The truck’s wheels extended slightly into the lane of travel when the Ford sedan, driven by Selvin Diaz, failed to move over and struck the vehicle. The police report indicated that the driver was blinded by the sun at the time of the crash.
The driver of the sedan and the two occupants of the sanitation truck were not seriously injured and did not require transport to medical facilities. However, the sedan’s passenger, Edwin Gutierrez, sustained serious injuries. He was transported to a landing pad and flown by helicopter to a nearby hospital. His current condition has not been disclosed.
Sanitation Supervisor George Lawson commented on the incident, noting that the outcome could have been much worse if another worker had been riding on the back of the truck at the time of the crash. “The driver hit the opposite side of where our county employee was standing,” Lawson said.
Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this challenging time.
Truck Accidents in Tennessee
Collisions involving trucks, such as the sanitation truck in this incident, can lead to severe injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Tennessee roads, particularly busy routes like State Route 160, require heightened caution to avoid accidents. Factors like limited visibility, such as sun glare, can contribute significantly to crashes.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) urges drivers to adhere to the “Move Over Law,” requiring vehicles to change lanes or slow down when approaching stationary emergency or service vehicles with activated lights. Following this law is crucial for protecting workers and drivers alike.
For individuals affected by truck collisions, navigating medical treatments, insurance claims, and potential legal options can be overwhelming. Those injured may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a vehicle accident, Local Accident Reports is here to offer guidance and resources. Contact us today for assistance during this challenging time.