Trucks Collide and Catch Fire on U.S. 220

Two trucks collided on U.S. 220 in Franklin County on Monday night and caught fire north of Dudley’s truck stop, according to The Franklin News Post.

Kenneth Hancock, 32 ,of Rocky Mount was driving a Kenworth and pulling a flatbed trailer loaded with logs north on U.S. 220 when he observed a truck driven by Benny Oakley, 57, of Kentucky  attempting to make a U-turn at a crossover.  Hancock swerved but was unable to avoid the collision and his truck rolled over with logs spilling out and blocking both lanes of U.S. 220 north.
 
Both trucks caught fire following the impact and the roadway was closed for almost five hours.  Cars were detoured to Iron Ridge Road.  Oakley’s truck was carrying batteries and a minor leak was discovered and contained, according to the Franklin County fire marshall.
 
A hazardous material cleanup company completed the cleanup of fuel, oil and antifreeze on Tuesday morning.  No contamination was found in the nearby Blackwater River.

Oakley was driving for L.J. Trucking Company out of Ohio, and was charged with improper/unsafe lane change.  Hancock is employed by Cundiff Trucking in Wirtz.
 
Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported in this truck accident, but the highways of southern and southwestern Virginia can be dangerous places.  If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or truck accident through no fault of your own, you need a caring and competent attorney to protect your rights and see that you receive the compensation you deserve.  Don’t be a victim twice.  Contact Will Davis of the Davis Law Firm at (540) 483-5221 and schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.  

Helping Seriously Injured People Since 1891.