Truck driver 'resuscitated' after semi crash in Breckinridge Co.

Victim airlifted to higher care after vehicle flips off highway

Mar. 20, 2026 at 5:51pm

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A 71-year-old truck driver was 'resuscitated' by emergency responders after his semi-truck flipped over in Breckinridge County, Kentucky. The driver, Michael Schafer, was extracted from the overturned vehicle and transported to a local hospital before being airlifted to receive further medical care.

Why it matters

Semi-truck crashes on rural highways can be particularly dangerous due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. This incident highlights the importance of highway safety and the quick response of emergency services in potentially life-threatening situations.

The details

According to Breckinridge County Emergency Management, the crash occurred on Thursday morning when Schafer's semi-truck, traveling northbound on Highway 1401, had a rear wheel on the trailer dip off the roadway, causing the vehicle to flip over. Schafer was extracted from the overturned truck and 'resuscitated at the scene' by emergency medical personnel before being transported to a local hospital and then airlifted to receive higher-level care.

  • The crash happened on Thursday morning in the 1000 block of Hwy 1401.

The players

Michael Schafer

A 71-year-old truck driver whose semi-truck flipped over on Highway 1401 in Breckinridge County, Kentucky.

Breckinridge County Emergency Management (BCEM)

The local emergency management agency that responded to and reported on the semi-truck crash.

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What’s next

It's unclear where Schafer is receiving further treatment after being airlifted from the local hospital.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the risks and dangers associated with semi-truck crashes on rural highways, and the critical role of emergency responders in providing life-saving care in such situations.