A deeply tragic incident has shaken the trucking fraternity after a truck driver lost his life while trying to assist another driver during a reversing manoeuvre.
According to information received, the fatal incident was captured on CCTV and has since circulated among drivers. The footage shows a tanker truck reversing in a tight yard with several other trucks parked behind it.
In an effort to prevent damage and keep things safe, another driver stepped in to guide the reversing tanker, directing the driver so he would not knock into the trucks standing behind him.
As the tanker continued reversing, it approached a Volvo truck. To make himself clearly visible and ensure the tanker driver could judge the distance properly, the guide positioned himself in front of the Volvo, signalling for the driver to slow down and stop.
Tragically, the tanker driver misjudged the remaining distance.
The truck continued reversing and struck the man, pinning him between the tanker trailer and the stationary Volvo truck.
Moments later, realising something had gone terribly wrong, the tanker driver moved forward. But by then, it was already too late.
Emergency assistance was attempted, but the injuries sustained were fatal.
This heartbreaking incident highlights the everyday risks truck drivers face, even off the public road and while trying to help one another.
Read | Reversing truck knocks down man leaving him critically injured
Guiding a reversing truck is something drivers do daily in yards, depots, truck stops and loading bays across the country. It is often done out of brotherhood and teamwork, yet it carries serious danger when visibility, space and judgement fail for even a second.
The trucking community mourns another fallen driver who was simply trying to help a fellow trucker get the job done safely.
Watch the video below:
Truck Yard Safety Tragedy After Reversing Manoeuvre Goes Wrong https://t.co/B1Z8A6Xi8h pic.twitter.com/blNUFKUFx4
— SA Trucker (@rsa_trucker) February 4, 2026
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