A truck slid into the sea on a beach in Pulk, the driver jumped out of the cab at the last minute, the swimmers threw themselves into the sea.

A truck belonging to Pula’s municipal company Herculanea slid into the sea near the Zlatne Stijene beach on Friday morning, narrowly avoiding disaster as the driver escaped just in time. The incident occurred around 11:15 local time, according to reports from local media. Witnesses described the moment as chaotic, with swimmers jumping into the water to avoid being hit by the vehicle. The driver managed to exit the cab before the truck plunged into the sea, escaping injury. According to statements from the Pula Fire Department and the Istrian Police, no one among the swimmers who were present on the beach was harmed. Emergency services arrived swiftly at the scene, including firefighters and police officers, who assessed the situation and ensured safety. Eyewitness accounts vary slightly but concur on the key elements of the event. One swimmer told Istarski.hr that he jumped into the sea just as the truck passed overhead, fearing it might strike him. Another witness, who was with his child, recounted how they were sunbathing when the truck suddenly rolled over and fell into the water. Both individuals confirmed that the driver had already exited the vehicle before the crash. Firefighters from the Public Fire Service in Pula responded to the call, deploying six personnel using two vehicles to handle the situation. The fire department confirmed that the accident took place in the area of Verudela, which is part of the Zlatne Stijene tourist zone. Local authorities have since begun investigating the cause of the incident, focusing on whether the truck lost control due to road conditions or mechanical failure. The Zlatne Stijene beach, located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, is a popular summer destination known for its scenic views and clear waters. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, making such incidents rare but concerning. The area has previously been the site of other accidents, though none involving heavy vehicles. This latest incident has prompted renewed calls for improved road safety measures along the coastal route leading to the beach. Local officials have expressed concern over the incident and are working with transportation authorities to review the condition of the road. The municipal company Herculanea, responsible for maintaining public infrastructure, has issued a statement acknowledging the occurrence and pledging cooperation with investigators. The company has not yet released further details regarding the truck's condition or the driver’s status beyond confirming that he suffered minor injuries. Emergency responders emphasized that while the situation was alarming, there were no fatalities and all involved were accounted for. The incident highlights the importance of vigilance, especially during peak tourist seasons when large numbers of people gather in close proximity to traffic routes. Authorities are urging drivers to remain alert and adhere strictly to speed limits in areas prone to sudden changes in terrain.