A truck driver was killed when he was caught between the tailgate of a semi-truck trailer and a seed dispenser at a cotton gin.

The man climbed onto the trailer to guide the driver backwards into position under the dispenser. Apparently the victim was concentrating on guiding the trailer back and was looking straight ahead. His back came in contact with the unit. The beam pinched the man, flipping him over the tailgate and into the trailer, where he fell down about eight feet. He died weeks later due to a severe infection resulting from internal injuries.

There are steps you can take to prevent this kind of accident:

• Never climb onto a moving trailer. When guiding a truck back, stay on the ground and visible to the driver.
• Move trucks forward if possible. Driveways could be redesigned to eliminate the need to back in.
• Grooved and lowered tire paths can help drivers know where to back in.
• Photo cell devices can be used to provide oral and visual position warning
• Seasonal workers should be up on the safety standards. Even experienced workers benefit from reviewing routine and non-routine procedures.