Clearfield man identified as victim of fatal truck accident Saturday

GARDEN CITY, Rich County — A Clearfield dump truck driver who was killed after he jumped out of a runaway truck when the brakes failed has been identified.

Utah Highway Patrol troopers believe 35-year-old Andrew J. Benik was heading down Logan Canyon on U.S. 89 Saturday morning when the brakes failed on his truck.

The dump truck driver had been hauling a load of asphault to Kemmerer, Wyo., and jumped out of the vehicle. The driver suffered fatal head injuries from the fall and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The truck continued down the road another 200 yards and came to a stop after striking trees and other vegetation.

Troopers say the truck didn't roll and the driver might have survived had he stayed in the truck.

Based on witness reports, UHP troopers believe the truck was going about 60-70 mph when the accident occurred.

— Lana Groves