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The two pieces of equipment were travelling in opposite directions and the impact resulted in a fire that engulfed the fuel truck, according to the US Mine Safety and Health Administration.
This is the third fatality reported so far in calendar year 2011 in the US coal mining industry and the second fatality classified as a machinery accident.
Two coal mine fatalities, but no machinery accidents, occurred within the same period in 2010.
MSHA recommends that operators inform others when driving a vehicle into a work area and traffic rules are optimised to maximise safe road travel.
It also recommends obeying established traffic rules and signage that apply to the area and following established communication procedures.
Signage should be in place and easily observed and equipment should be controlled at all times. Mines should also ensure all safety systems are maintained, including brakes and steering.
