| Tipped Tanker Driver Has Prior Driver Record Violations |
|
The Wasilla driver that overturned a tanker carrying 9,000 gallons of refrigerated methane, had previously been cited for three driving violations, all of them involving commercial vehicles. The driver and was taken by ambulance to a regional center. Court records show the 63 year-old driver was cited for speeding in 2005 and 2006, and for failing to avoid a collision last year, all in tractor-trailers, and all along the same route where the crash occurred. None of the traffic infractions were serious enough to disqualify his commercial license, although commercial drivers with two serious violations in three years face a 60-day license disqualification; drivers with three in that time face a 120-day disqualification. Serious violations include speeding more than 15 mph over the limit or improper passing. No one was seriously injured, although the cargo tank was carrying hazardous materials. While it posed a serious threat for explosion, the safety equipment worked and diffused a very, very dangerous situation.
|
