Fatal Boom Lift Unloading Incident in Clifton, New Jersey
30 Second Takeaway
A truck driver died after a JLG telescopic boom lift slipped off the side of a tilt-back trailer during unloading in Clifton, New Jersey. Vincent “Vinnie” Trotter, 34, was on the lift’s platform when the machine fell onto the sidewalk beside a school construction site on Main Avenue. The incident occurred on Monday, April 13. The lift’s model and the circumstances that led to it slipping from the trailer have not been provided.
Incident Overview
Main Avenue, Clifton, New Jersey, United States
A truck driver died while unloading a JLG telescopic boom lift from a tilt-back trailer alongside a school construction site in Clifton. The lift, reported to be from the Redmount Aerials rental fleet, came off the side of the trailer and fell onto the sidewalk.
The worker was identified as Vincent “Vinnie” Trotter, 34, a father of four. The main contractor for the school project was reported to be Regency Developments.
What Happened
Based on information available at the time of publication:
A truck driver was unloading a JLG telescopic boom lift from a tilt-back trailer.
The lift came off the side of the trailer and fell onto the sidewalk.
Trotter was on the lift’s platform when it fell.
The truck was parked on Main Avenue beside a school construction site.
The incident occurred on Monday, April 13.
Trotter died at the scene.
The lift was reported to be from the Redmount Aerials rental fleet.
What Is Known
Equipment involved: JLG telescopic boom lift and tilt-back trailer
Equipment owner: Reported to be from the Redmount Aerials rental fleet
Incident type: Fatal incident during equipment unloading
Location: Main Avenue, Clifton, New Jersey
Worksite: School construction project
Worker: Vincent “Vinnie” Trotter, 34
Injuries: One fatality
Lift model: Not provided
Cause: Not established in the information available
Early Observations
The boom lift came off the side of the trailer during unloading, but the details of how it happened have not been confirmed. The available information does not establish the trailer’s position, the lift’s configuration, the unloading method or whether any mechanical issue contributed.
Trotter was on the platform when the lift fell. No further information about the task he was performing or the site’s unloading arrangements has been provided.
Why This Incident Was Possible
The cause of the incident has not been determined. Unloading a boom lift involves movement between the trailer and the ground, and can expose workers to tip-over, fall and crush hazards if the machine or trailer becomes unstable.
Investigators may examine the trailer setup, unloading surface, lift position, equipment condition and work procedures. These are general areas for review and are not confirmed contributing factors in this incident.
Industry Reminder
Equipment unloading should follow the lift and trailer manufacturers’ instructions, with the trailer positioned on suitable ground and secured for the procedure. Workers should remain clear of potential fall and crush zones, and the unloading method should account for the machine’s configuration and stability throughout the transition to the ground.
Editorial Note
Crane Hub Global reports on crane, access equipment and transport incidents to support industry awareness and learning.
This article is based on information available at the time of publication. The exact circumstances that led to the boom lift falling from the trailer have not been confirmed.
How Boom Lift Unloading Incidents Can Be Prevented
Follow the Manufacturer’s Unloading Procedure
Use the instructions for both the boom lift and trailer, including any requirements for the machine’s position and movement during unloading.
Prepare the Unloading Area
Position the trailer on stable, suitable ground and account for the space needed to unload the machine safely.
Keep Workers Clear of Fall Zones
Identify where the lift could move or fall during unloading, and keep workers outside those areas whenever possible.
Confirm Equipment Condition
Check the trailer, loading ramps and lift for visible damage or issues that could affect stability before beginning the procedure.
Stop if the Machine Becomes Unstable
Pause unloading if the lift shifts unexpectedly or the trailer or surface appears unstable. Reassess the setup before continuing.
