The driver whose trailer overturned in Marsa yesterday, has apologised to motorists for the huge traffic jams which the accident caused. A statement was also issued by the owners of the trailer, Express Trailers.
The trailer overturned in Aldo Moro Road, opposite the former Malta Shipbuilding yard, and came to rest on the pavement. But the road was closed by the police as a crane was put on the road to lift the trailer and its fully-loaded container.
The driver, Peter Paul Barbara, 44 of Pieta' was brought out of the truck by Civil Protection Rescuers and spent the night in hospital. He suffered numerous injuries when the glass of his cabin shattered.
Writing on behalf of her husband, Mrs Louise Barbara said she wished to thank all the people who wished him a speedy recovery. She said he is better now, but still in hospital for observation.
Mrs Barbara told timesofmalta.com that her husband - a very experienced trailer driver who also drives abroad - had not been speeding and he was very worried by the fact that he did not know how the accident could have happened.
"We thank God that no other victims were involved and we are deeply sorry for the chaos caused.
"He is also deeply sorry for the truck as it is his life.
"We also wish to thank the people who rescued him and the police and all the people that helped, and a thank you goes also to all the friends and relatives who called, and a special thank you for the emergency staff of Mater Dei," Mrs Barbara said.
COMPANY STATEMENT
Express Group also apologised for the inconvenience caused to all commuters who were somehow affected by this accident.
It thanked all those involved in the salvage operation and the rescue of the driver.
"The company is also aware and very thankful to all those members from the public who are showing their consideration and understanding and are wishing its employee a speedy recovery."
The group said its fleet of trailers undergoes regular technical procedures and that all trailers and transport vehicles are certified to the highest levels of safety in line with national and international certifications. An internal inquiry is currently in progress to determine the circumstances that led to this accident.