LAKELAND, Fla. \u2014 Authorities report that a semi-truck driver died in a crash north of Lakeland after logs from a different truck pierced through his cab.<\/p>\n
The crash happened late Wednesday morning on U.S. 98 North, about 10 miles outside the city. Investigators report that the victim, a 44-year-old man from Winter Park, was driving south behind a truck carrying large timber.<\/p>\n
Officials believe that the lead truck decelerated in preparation for a left turn onto State Road 471. However, for reasons still being investigated, the following driver did not slow down in time and hit the back of the timber truck.<\/p>\n
The impact caused several large logs to extend from the trailer, thrusting into the cab of the trailing semi and fatally injuring the driver on scene.<\/p>\n
Authorities confirmed that the 34-year-old man from Ocala, driver of the timber truck, was unharmed in the crash.<\/p>\n
Emergency crews swiftly arrived, securing the scene and handling a hazardous materials spill resulting from the collision. Several agencies collaborated on the response and clean-up operations.<\/p>\n
Investigators observed that the timber load was securely fastened and complied with safety standards. Currently, authorities do not expect any criminal or civil charges to result from the incident.<\/p>\n
The crash remains under investigation.<\/p>\n
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