Venancio Motta Santos, a flagman working on West Virginia State Route 214, fatally struck by a passing Chevrolet Silverado
On October 17, a tragic accident unfolded along West Virginia State Route 214 in Yawkey, Lincoln County, claiming the life of 44-year-old Venancio Motta Santos. A resident of Shelbyville, Kentucky, Motta Santos was working as a flagger for a tree company when he was fatally struck by a vehicle while assisting with traffic control during roadside maintenance. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the hazards faced by workers in roadside environments.
According to authorities, the accident occurred when a black Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 47-year-old Jimmy Wilburn from Sumerco, West Virginia, collided with Motta Santos. Reports indicate that Wilburn was unable to stop in time, resulting in the tragic impact. At the time of the accident, Motta Santos was positioned on the right side of the road, performing his duties to help ensure the safety of both motorists and his fellow workers. Although initial reports suggest that Wilburn did not see Motta Santos in time to avoid the collision, the exact circumstances leading to the accident are still under investigation.
Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene, and Motta Santos was quickly transported to CAMC General Hospital in Charleston for urgent medical treatment. Despite the rapid efforts of both paramedics and hospital staff, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the facility. The loss of Motta Santos has left a profound impact on his family and colleagues, who are grappling with the sudden and devastating news.
As investigations into the accident continue, authorities have not yet pinpointed all the contributing factors. Investigators are focused on various elements, including road conditions, visibility, and potential driver error. The West Virginia State Police are leading the inquiry, working diligently to collect evidence and testimonies that might clarify the circumstances of the crash. As of now, no charges have been filed against Wilburn, but the investigation remains active, with updates expected as more information is gathered.
Motta Santos’s death underscores the significant dangers faced by roadside workers, who often operate in high-risk environments while ensuring the safety of others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, traffic incidents are one of the leading causes of fatal work injuries in the United States. In 2021 alone, nearly 40% of work-related fatalities were due to transportation incidents, highlighting the critical need for heightened awareness and protective measures in work zones.
In light of this incident, officials are urging drivers to exercise extreme caution when navigating through construction or maintenance zones. The West Virginia Division of Highways emphasizes the necessity of slowing down, remaining vigilant, and being aware of flaggers and other workers on the road. Public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting safe driving in these areas have been implemented, encouraging motorists to prioritize safety over speed.
The tragic loss of Venancio Motta Santos is a stark reminder of the human cost associated with roadway maintenance and the vital roles these workers play in ensuring public safety. As investigations continue, it is crucial for the community and authorities to reflect on ways to enhance safety measures for those working on the front lines of our highways.
In conclusion, the accident that took Venancio Motta Santos’s life serves as a call to action for both drivers and authorities to foster a safer environment for roadside workers. As the investigation unfolds, it is hoped that lessons learned will contribute to preventing similar tragedies in the future. The grieving family and community remember Motta Santos not only for his work but for his dedication to ensuring the safety of others, a legacy that will resonate with those who knew him.
