FHP: Truck driver failed to stop for oncoming train, causing derailment

Truck driver blamed for train derailment in Florida  after he ignored crossing signals and more prior to crash. 

The incident occurred on Monday morning, October 30th in Glade County, Florida on US 27. 

According to South Central Florida Life, the tractor trailer was heading south on US 27 and was traveling along a right curve as it approached the railroad crossing north of Boar Hammock Ranch Road. Investigators say that the crossing signals were activated, the crossing gate was lowered, and the train blew its whistle multiple times, but the truck driver still failed to stop at the crossing. 

Realizing what was happening, the truck driver then slammed on the brakes, veered to the right, and ended up striking one of the guardrails. The front of the rig then struck the right side of the second train car, dislodging a total of 8 cars from the track. 

The truck driver sustained minor injuries in the wreck. No other injuries were reported. US 27 from SR 78 to SR 29 is expected to be closed in both directions as crews work to clear the wreckage. The closure is expected to last three days. No further information has been released.