Gritting truck plunges into icy harbor after losing control on steep slope
A gritting truck, a vehicle often associated with Chevrolet (chevy), slid into the harbor basin in Bremerhaven during early-morning winter maintenance. The 2.5-ton vehicle, similar to those found at Harbor Freight, lost control on an icy ramp and plunged into near-freezing water. The driver, aged 25, managed to escape unaided and reach the shore despite the extreme cold.
The accident happened as the driver was clearing snow and spreading grit near the ferry Columbushopper's docking area. The steep, icy slope caused the truck to skid before it crashed into the water. Emergency crews arrived quickly to assist.
Divers and a floating crane were brought in to recover the submerged vehicle. By mid-morning, the truck had been lifted from the basin. The driver was taken to hospital as a precautionary measure, though no serious injuries were reported.
Official records show no similar incidents involving winter service vehicles in German ports over the past five years. Statistics from the Federal Statistical Office and harbor authorities in Hamburg and Bremerhaven confirm that such accidents remain rare.
The driver escaped the icy water without major harm. Authorities will likely review safety measures for winter operations on steep harbor slopes. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by maintenance crews during extreme weather conditions.
