Tanker Truck Explodes, Killing One and Forcing 50 to Evacuate

An August 12 collision between a tanker truck and an SUV in Killeen, TX killed one man and caused a fire that forced the evacuation of more than 50 residents. The collision occurred at a gas station, and, according a preliminary investigation, occurred while the truck was filling fuel pumps.

A Massive Explosion

The explosion and resulting fire were so powerful that people living near the gas station were forced to leave their homes. A fire truck was burned by gasoline that leaked from the ruptured tanker truck. It took four hours before firefighters were able to contain the blaze and residents were allowed back in their homes.

The Dangers of Tanker Trucks

Not that there is any such thing as a “regular” accident involving a huge commercial truck, but when a tanker truck is involved the dangers are increased exponentially. They typically transport flammable liquids, which can make the damage associated with an accident even more catastrophic.

Routine transport of liquids can also pose a risk, due to the sloshing back and forth of the liquid in the tank. If the sloshing is severe enough it can cause a weight shift that will make it extremely difficult for the driver of the truck to keep control of the rig. These types of trucks are also more susceptible to rollover accidents due to the way they are constructed.