PORTER, TX (04/26/2016) — Paul Mackedanz, a worker for Sewer Services of Texas, was killed after a driver crashed into his pump truck on Tuesday afternoon.
Authorities have identified 23-year-old Paul Mackedanz as the victim of a fatal accident that occurred along the service road of Highway 59 near FM 1314 in Porter, Texas.
Police reported that at around 3:05 p.m., 52-year-old Stanley Vandenberg was traveling in a Chevrolet Cobalt when he disregarded traffic cones and struck Mackedanz as he stood behind his work truck.
“Witnesses stated the sewer worker was behind the pump truck cleaning the lines,” said Erik Burse with the Texas Highway Patrol. “Another vehicle disregarded the cones and struck the victim, pinning him against the pump truck.”
Both men died in the wreckage.
“When you see traffic cones, when you see these signs, decrease your speed,” Burse said. “Pay attention to your surroundings, change lanes safely when you can and keep your speed down until you pass the construction zone or the workers.”
Commentary
As Officer Burse stated, traffic cones, signs and other roadway signals are posted to divert drivers away from road obstructions. All drivers are responsible for stopping or slowing down to provide a safe environment for other drivers, or to individuals who might be working in the area.
To those affected by this tragic accident, we offer our condolences.
