RUTLAND — A collision between a tractor-trailer and a Vermont Agency of Transportation (AOT) plow truck occurred late Thursday night, resulting in damage to both vehicles but no injuries.
The accident happened on US Route 4W at mile marker 16.2 around 11:35 p.m., as sleet and rain created hazardous driving conditions with wet snow covering the road.
Fabian Robinson, 31, from Rhinebeck, NY, was operating a 2022 International LT625 tractor-trailer when he attempted to pass a 2020 International HV513 plow truck driven by David Hogenauer, 53, of Clarendon, VT.
According to the state troopers’ report, Robinson’s unsafe passing maneuver led to contact with the plow truck, causing Hogenauer’s vehicle to veer off the traveled portion of the highway.
The trailer of Robinson’s vehicle sustained damage, as did the plow and passenger side wing arm of Hogenauer’s truck.
Both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the incident, and neither was injured.
Emergency response teams, including Earle’s Truck Repair, Regional Ambulance Service, and Rutland Town Fire Department, provided assistance at the scene.
State troopers are investigating the crash and remind drivers to exercise caution during inclement weather and to respect snow plowing operations by maintaining a safe distance.
