Woman Struck and Killed By Tractor Trailer in Westmoreland County

A woman was fatally struck by a tractor-trailer on the Pennsylvania Turnpike on November 20. According to the Westmoreland County coroner, the incident occurred around 11:30 p.m. near mile marker 91 by the Donegal interchange. Police reports indicate the woman was walking on the westbound side when she attempted to cross the highway. The truck driver tried to stop but was unable to avoid hitting the pedestrian.

Our thoughts are with the family of the victim.

Pedestrian vs. Truck Accidents

Collisions between pedestrians and large commercial trucks are among the most dangerous types of traffic accidents, with pedestrians being especially vulnerable due to the massive size and weight disparity. These accidents mostly occur on highways or major thoroughfares where pedestrians are usually prohibited, often during low-light conditions that make it difficult for truck drivers to spot people on foot in time to stop their vehicles safely.

The stopping distance required for a fully-loaded tractor-trailer traveling at highway speeds can exceed 500 feet, making it virtually impossible for drivers to avoid sudden obstacles. Additionally, trucks have significant blind spots that can obscure pedestrians from view.

It is also important to note that it is illegal of pedestrians to walk on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The turnpike is designated as a limited-access highway and walking on the turnpike is not only considered dangerous, but a violation of the law. This tragedy highlights the critical importance of following pedestrian restrictions on limited-access highways and using proper crossing points and pedestrian bridges where available.

Note: Our team of writers uses secondary sources to produce this post, including local and state media and news sources, regional and state police incident reports, social media platforms, and eyewitness accounts about serious accidents that take place in Pennsylvania. For that reason, if you find any information that is not correct, be sure to contact Munley Law as soon as possible so that we can update the post with the most exact information available. A post will be removed upon request. All information in this post is informational and not intended to be considered legal or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business.