Ontario County, NY — January 7, 2025, Jeffrey Manard was injured in a truck accident at about 1 p.m. on New York State Route 247.
Authorities said the box truck was moving slowly because of snowy conditions when a wind gust forced it to the side of the road. The driver was unable to prevent the truck from sliding off the road, hitting a utility pole before it overturned.
Driver Jeffrey Manard, 71, suffered leg injuries in the crash, according to authorities. He was taken to an area hospital after being freed from the truck.
Authorities said the truck was empty at the time of the crash.
The accident is still under investigation.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
This crash on New York State Route 247 underscores how quickly adverse weather can create hazards for drivers, particularly those operating larger vehicles. The combination of snow and strong winds is particularly challenging, as it reduces both traction and stability.
One key issue in this incident is the truck’s handling in snowy conditions. Even though the truck was empty, which typically reduces stability, the snowy surface likely made it more difficult for the driver to maintain control when the wind pushed the vehicle. Investigators might examine whether the truck’s tires were appropriate for winter driving and whether they had sufficient tread to provide traction on snowy roads.
The role of the wind is another important factor. Box trucks, with their large, flat sides, are particularly susceptible to being pushed off course by strong gusts. Investigators may look into the specific wind conditions at the time to determine how much they contributed to the truck’s loss of control.
The presence of the utility pole raises questions about roadside safety in this area. Was the pole located close to the roadway, and was there a barrier or buffer to prevent vehicles from colliding with it in situations like this? Reviewing the placement and design of roadside infrastructure can help identify opportunities to reduce the severity of similar crashes in the future.
This crash illustrates the importance of preparing for the unique challenges posed by winter weather, including ensuring vehicles are equipped with the right tires and roadside infrastructure is designed to minimize the impact of off-road incidents. A thorough investigation will help clarify what led to this crash and how similar risks can be mitigated in the future.
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