At approximately 08.30hrs on Monday 24^th of April 2017 a crash occurred on Bass Highway at Wynyard.  The crash involved an un-laden B-double which collided with a semi-trailer carting potatoes.

Initial investigations indicate that the B-double lost control while negotiating a right hand curve in very wet and slippery conditions.  The B-double crossed onto the incorrect side of the road, blocking the entire road.  The Semi-trailer took evasive action but was unable to avoid colliding with one of the B-double trailers.

The impact caused significant damage to the semi-trailers cabin and the 73 year old male driver from Boat Harbour was trapped for approximately one hour before being extricated by rescue personnel from Tasmania Fire Service and Tasmania Ambulance Service.  He was conveyed to the North West Regional Hospital at Burnie where he was admitted in a critical condition.

The driver of the B-double, a 38 year old male from West Ulverstone, suffered minor injuries and he was also conveyed to the NWRH Burnie for treatment.

The road was completely blocked as a result of the crash and the extent of entanglement between the two trucks and trailers.  Traffic diversions were put in place.  The road remained blocked and subsequently closed for a period of approximately seven hours while the heavy vehicles were removed and the potatoes were cleared from the road surface.

Initial investigations indicate that weather conditions and road conditions at the time were major contributing factors.

Police would like to speak to any witnesses who may have observed either vehicle prior to the crash.  All witnesses are asked to contact 1/C Constable Adam LLOYD at Western District Crash Investigation by calling 131444 or alternatively information can be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au