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Controversy Surrounds California Trucking Company After Truck Driver’s Fatal Accident

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Authorities suspect that the death of truck driver Ewell Levy in Pittsburg, California would have been avoided if proper maintenance had been performed by the company that owned the truck, Roby Trucking.

Brake Failure Causes Fatal Accident

The accident, which happened Monday (March 16th), happened when the driver lost control and slammed into a restaurant. The truck struck at least three cars before plowing into a vacant strip mall restaurant and exploding. The driver was pronounced dead on the scene. No other injuries were reported.

Witnesses report that the brakes failed, a claim backed up by investigators. The California Highway Patrol says that there were numerous violations which lead them to believe that the tragic accident was preventable. Witnesses also noted that it looked as is Levy did everything he could to make sure no one else was hurt.

Trucking Company Has Long History Of Violations

Roby Trucking has a dubious safety history record. The CHP reports that they have been cited for brake and steering issues, other mechanical issues, and one incident where a truck was overloaded by 16,000 pounds.

A current Roby Trucking employee who wished to remain anonymous said that he’s seen numerous problems during his employment. “Tires, brakes, drums, air lines, oil lines, water lines,” he said.

A former office manager claimed that at Roby Trucking, “it was all about money. It was never about safety.”

Father of Six Loved 18-Wheelers

According to Levy’s mother, the driver always loved trucks and talked about becoming a trucker when he was young. The father of six was also an avid sports fan and performed in an R & B tribute band.


Source:
ABC 7 News
Contra Costa Times

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