Big Rig Driver 'in a Hurry' Slams into TX Apparatus

Feb. 13, 2020
An 18-wheeler slammed into a Schertz Fire Department platform aerial that was protecting first responders at a crash scene early Wednesday morning.

The Schertz Fire Department is reminding drivers of the dangers first responders face when responding to scenes after a tractor-trailer struck one of the department's platform fire trucks at the scene of an accident Wednesday.

The firefighters were responding to the scene near Interstate 35 and FM 1103 at 3 a.m., when the incident occurred. The department's official Facebook page said the truck was being used to block the scene and protect first responders when a tractor-trailer hit the front of the vehicle.

Photos posted of the accident show the truck's cab exposed and torn apart by the wreck. No injuries were reported, according to the post.

"This is a good reminder of the dangers all of our First Responders face out on the highways," the Schertz fire department said.

Last October, San Antonio firefighter Gregory Garza died after he tripped from a fire truck while responding to a scene downtown and was hit by an oncoming vehicle. At the time, SAFD released a statement urging residents to slow down and to be mindful of first responders.

The Schertz police department also reminded drivers of Texas law which requires motorists to move out of the lane closest to the scene or reduce speed to 20 mph below the posted limit when passing emergency vehicles, Texas Department of Transportation vehicles or tow trucks.

The Schertz Police Department confirmed the driver of the 18-wheeler was issued two citations: unsafe speed/too fast for conditions and passing authorized emergency vehicles. According to Texas Transportation Code, violation of the law resulting in property damage is punishable by a fine of $500.

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