A chaotic scene unfolded in several intersections across Utah on November 3 when a double-bottom dump truck lost control of its brakes. Unable to stop, the semi truck plowed through an intersection, causing extensive damage to multiple cars before crashing into a Ford/Chrysler dealership where it burst into flames.
According to KSL News, a total of 33 vehicles, including the double-bottom dump truck, were involved in the massive crash in Tooele, Utah. Eleven people sustained injuries, with one individual in critical condition, who had to be airlifted to a hospital in Salt Lake City.
The double-bottom dump truck, consisting of two trailer beds connected together, was fully loaded with gravel, contributing to the significant force and momentum when its brakes malfunctioned.
The truck initially collided with three cars as it careened through the intersection at W Vine St. and S Main St. It then crashed into two additional vehicles as it crossed W 400 N and Main. Finally, the out-of-control truck veered off the road, causing damage to 27 cars at Tooele Ford, a dealership located 1½ miles away from the initial collision. Cars that were stationary were launched into the air like toys, and the truck caught fire, resulting in multiple explosions, as it hurtled towards the dealership.
Video footage shows the semi truck driver making an apparent effort to steer away from the stopped cars at the intersections. The truck even crossed the center median of Main St. at least once to avoid rear-ending a group of stationary vehicles waiting at a traffic signal. Remarkably, the semi truck driver escaped the incident with only minor injuries.
Witnesses who were involved in the crash expressed their helplessness in the face of the impending collision, stating that they could only brace themselves for impact. Sergeant Jeremy Hansen, one of the responding officers, remarked, “I’ve never seen an accident like that.” Police have since confirmed that the truck’s brakes had failed. Considering the extensive wreckage left behind, the outcome of the incident could have been far more devastating.
