A video circulating on social media on February 22nd captured a harrowing traffic accident involving a truck and a pickup truck on a mountain road curve in Son La. The clip clearly shows the truck losing control, swaying erratically before colliding head-on with the pickup truck traveling in the opposite direction. The violent collision sent shivers down viewers’ spines, especially upon hearing the desperate cries of children from inside the damaged pickup truck.
The video immediately garnered significant attention from the online community, raising alarms about the risk of pickup trucks losing control and road safety on hazardous mountain roads.
Scene of the truck losing control and crashing into a pickup truck in Son La, image taken from the video of the incident.
According to information from authorities, the tragic accident occurred at approximately 8:30 PM on February 21st on National Highway 37, passing through Bac Yen district, Son La province, at km419. At that time, the truck with license plate 30Y-00XX, driven by Mr. L.V.T (46 years old, residing in Bac Kan), carrying Ms. N.T.B.H (46 years old), was traveling in the direction of Bac Yen – Son La. Upon reaching the location, the truck collided with a pickup truck with license plate 26C-086.XX, driven by Mr. D.V.H (40 years old, residing in Phu Yen, Son La), carrying his 7-year-old daughter, traveling in the opposite direction.
The accident injured both Mr. D.V.H and his daughter, requiring them to be hospitalized for emergency treatment. Both vehicles were severely damaged, especially the pickup truck, which was completely deformed after the strong impact.
Pickup Truck Losing Control on Mountain Roads: Warning from the Son La Accident
The accident on National Highway 37 once again raises alarms about the risk of pickup trucks losing control, especially on mountain roads. Although the initial cause in this incident is believed to be the truck losing control, it cannot be denied that pickup trucks also pose similar risks of losing control if not operated correctly and safely.
Xe Tai My Dinh would like to point out some factors that can lead to pickup trucks losing control on mountain roads and preventive measures:
- Inappropriate speed: Going too fast when entering curves or descending slopes is the leading cause of losing control. Pickup trucks have a high center of gravity, making them prone to tipping over when cornering sharply at high speeds.
- Sudden braking: Braking suddenly on slippery roads or when going downhill can cause the wheels to lock up, leading to loss of control and skidding.
- Overloading: Exceeding the permitted load capacity increases the vehicle’s inertia, making it more difficult to control, especially when cornering or braking.
- Tires: Tires that are too worn, underinflated, or not suitable for road conditions also significantly affect grip and cause loss of control.
- Driving skills: Lack of experience driving on mountain roads and poor handling of situations are also risk factors.
Advice from Xe Tai My Dinh Experts: Safety First
To ensure safety when driving a pickup truck on mountain roads and prevent the risk of pickup trucks losing control, Xe Tai My Dinh recommends:
- Always thoroughly inspect the vehicle before the trip: Pay special attention to the braking system, tires, oil, and coolant.
- Reduce speed when cornering and descending slopes: Drive slowly, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
- Use engine braking when descending slopes: Limit the continuous use of the foot brake to avoid overheating and loss of braking efficiency.
- Do not overload: Adhere to the vehicle’s permitted load capacity.
- Improve driving skills: Participate in off-road driving and safe driving training courses.
The accident in Son La is a valuable lesson in road safety. Always be careful and drive safely to protect yourself and those around you. Xe Tai My Dinh is always with you on every road.