Ivago worker injured in Ghent accident

On September 6, 2024, a worker from Ivago was critically injured in Drongen, Ghent, after being struck by a vehicle while performing his duties. The incident occurred around 12:45 PM on Gaverlandstraat in the Baarle neighborhood. Emergency services responded promptly, providing first aid before transporting the victim to the hospital, where he is currently in intensive care. The police confirmed that the driver involved in the accident tested negative for alcohol, indicating that intoxication was not a factor in the incident. Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident, focusing on the driver's behavior and the road conditions at the time. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of waste collection workers who operate in busy traffic areas, highlighting the risks they face daily. Local officials have expressed the need for improved safety measures to protect these workers. In response to the accident, traffic detours were established to manage the disruption caused by the street closure. Gaverlandstraat was closed for several hours to allow emergency responders to work safely and conduct their investigation. The public transport company De Lijn was notified of the situation, enabling them to adjust their bus schedules and inform passengers of potential delays. By 3 PM, the street was reopened, allowing all traffic, including buses, to resume normal operations. The swift response from emergency services and local authorities helped to mitigate the impact of the accident on the surrounding community, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by workers in the field.