Train, tractor-trailer collide

By Staff (90000)

Saturday, April 14, 2007
© Copyright 2013 Gwinnett Daily Post

WINDER - A train collided with a tractor-trailer Friday afternoon, tying up rush hour traffic at Winder's busiest intersection. No one was injured in the crash.

The 18-wheel tractor-trailer was stopped on the tracks at North Broad Street near Ga. Highway 8 when the train approached. The truck driver attempted to move his truck off the tracks and rear-ended a Ford Mustang, police said. The train then collided with the empty trailer.

The driver, Robert Sweitzer, 50, of Oak Ridge, Tenn., faces traffic charges.

"This accident certainly could have been much worse. We're lucky that no one was injured and that the biggest problem was the traffic delay," said Winder Police Sgt. Randy Michael. Police responded to the accident at 6:16 p.m.

Train and car accidents have occurred before at this busy intersection. On Jan. 4, a train hit a trailer pulled by a car. No injuries were reported in that crash either, but traffic was tied up for 30 minutes.

"Motorists must be aware of the danger by trains at crossing," Michael said. Drivers should not enter a crossing unless they are sure they can clear the tracks without stopping, police said.

For more information on highway-railway safety, call Operation Lifesaver at 800-537-6224 or log onto www.oli.org/oil

Gwinnett Daily Post