Two University of Oklahoma students were killed in a five-vehicle collision involving a semi-truck on I-40 in Shawnee. According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 5:45 p.m. on Friday as traffic slowed in a construction zone that had reduced the roadway to a single lane. Investigators say a semi-truck failed to slow down and struck multiple vehicles, including a Kia Forte carrying 22-year-old Aiden Martin and 21-year-old Emmaleigh Arnold, who were both pronounced dead at the scene. Three other people, including the Forte's driver, were injured. Authorities are still working to determine what caused the truck to fail to stop.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this, especially one in a construction zone, I think about whether the truck driver was distracted, fatigued, or failed to recognize the lane reduction. In my experience, these investigations often reveal factors that aren’t immediately apparent, but are crucial in understanding the full scope of the crash.
Was the Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
A common concern in rear-end crashes involving large trucks is whether the driver was paying attention or was impaired by fatigue. Construction zones require heightened awareness, and any lapse in attention can have deadly consequences. Investigators should closely examine the driver’s logs to determine how long they’d been on the road, whether rest breaks were taken as required by law, and whether cell phone or other in-cab distractions were present at the time of the crash.
Could Mechanical Issues Be Involved?
Another possibility is a mechanical failure that prevented the truck from stopping in time. Investigators should inspect the vehicle’s braking system, tire condition, and engine components. If the truck wasn’t properly maintained or had worn-down brake pads, it could have significantly reduced the driver’s ability to avoid a collision.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To understand what led to the crash, investigators should review data from the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM), which can show speed, braking behavior, and throttle use in the moments leading up to impact. Dashcam footage, GPS tracking, driver logs, maintenance records, and phone usage history will also be essential in painting a clear picture of what happened.
Why a Thorough Investigation Is Important
Crashes involving large trucks in construction zones often involve a chain of failures, not just by a driver, but potentially by a motor carrier that failed to enforce safety protocols. A full investigation is the only way to answer the many questions still surrounding this crash and to ensure accountability. In my experience as a truck accident attorney, these cases are rarely as straightforward as they first appear, and a deep dive often uncovers overlooked details that are key to understanding what happened and why.