Snowplough Hits Pedestrian with Snow Shovelful on Obac Road

Drivers from the COEX snow-clearing service and their supervisors have apologised to a young man who was hit by a shovelful of snow while standing on the roadside along the Obac road early on Monday morning.

The incident occurred as the man, on his way to work at a nearby hotel, stopped to film the heavy machinery. He was struck in the face by snow flung from a snowplough's blade, suffering a strong blow that caused minor but painful injuries consistent with the impact and his subsequent fall. Fortunately, his injuries were not severe—he could have tumbled down the steep embankment—and he has since received medical attention.

The drivers of three snowploughs and the salt-spreading vehicle met with the victim a few days later to express their regret, alongside COEX managers. Sources say the young man accepted their apologies. The department's insurer will cover all related costs, including healthcare visits and significant damage to his mobile phone, which captured footage of the moment he was hit.

The man filed a police complaint on Tuesday morning against an unidentified COEX driver. It remains unclear how this will proceed following the explanations provided, though the claim may need to be maintained for insurance purposes.

Operators explained that the three snowploughs typically lead, followed by the salt truck. On this occasion, one plough fell behind and, after checking traffic, overtook the salt vehicle on the left near a curve. Without noticing the pedestrian, it swung back to the right at speed, its blade still angled outward, sending the entire load of snow towards him.

Initially, the victim declined medical help to start his shift, as the pain seemed manageable at the time. He later sought emergency care. The episode has left him shaken but ends on a positive note: he will receive a new phone.