A truck driver who was injured after being hit in the face by a piece of lumber this morning has been treated in hospital.

He was hurt at about 11.20am after the wood fell off another truck and crashed through his windshield as he drove along St John’s Road, Pembroke near the junction with Marsh Folly Road.

A police spokesman said the vehicles had been travelling in opposite directions when the lumber fell off the eastbound truck, also damaging the truck’s side window.

It was said to be part of a larger load secured to the other truck.

The driver, a 26-year-old Smith’s man, has since been discharged from hospital.

The incident is being investigated and witnesses are asked to contact the main police telephone number, 295-0011.

Chief Inspector Robert Cardwell issued a reminder regarding the unlawful carriage of loads — adding that he was not speaking specifically of today’s incident.

Mr Cardwell said: “In light of recent incidents on Bermuda roads involving the unlawful carriage of loads on vehicles, the Bermuda Police Service believes it is timely to remind the motoring public of the restrictions and requirements in law that are designed to ensure safety.

• A load may not project laterally beyond the side of a four-wheeled vehicle; the load may not project laterally more than two feet from the side of any two wheeled vehicle.

• A load may not project more than two feet to the front or rear of a private motor car or taxi; not more than ten feet to the front or rear of any truck; not more than four feet to the front or rear of a two wheeled vehicle.

• The highest point of any load may not be more than 13 feet above the ground and any load with height may not be carried in such a way that danger is caused.

• Where any load projects more than three feet to the rear of any vehicle, a red cloth (12in by 18in) or a red lamp must be affixed to the end of the load.

• The minister may issue a permit allowing other types of loads.

• A tarpaulin must cover any loose load such as sand, rubble or shrubbery.

Mr Cardwell added: “A fixed penalty fine can be issued by a police officer to any motorist committing an unlawful load carrying offence.”