A serious collision involving two commercial vehicles shut down the southbound lanes of I-95 in Danvers, Massachusetts, on Monday evening. The crash occurred near Centre Street and involved a tractor-trailer and a box truck. Three people sustained non-life-threatening injuries, according to the Danvers Fire Department. One of the drivers had to be extricated from their vehicle.
When two commercial trucks collide with enough force to cause serious damage and injuries, it’s essential to understand what led up to the crash.
Could Driver Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
Collisions between commercial vehicles often happen in high-traffic areas, where attentiveness and proper following distance are critical. In this case, it’s not yet clear which vehicle may have been at fault or how the crash began. However, distraction or fatigue are common contributors to rear-end and lane-change crashes involving large trucks. Investigators will likely review dispatch logs, driver rest records, and cellphone activity to determine if either operator was impaired by inattention or exhaustion at the time of the crash.
Should Mechanical Issues Be Considered?
Given the visible damage to the tractor-trailer, it’s important to examine whether any mechanical failure, such as brake malfunction or steering problems, may have contributed to the crash. Commercial vehicles undergo routine inspections, but equipment failure can still occur, particularly if maintenance has been delayed or overlooked. Investigators will likely inspect both trucks for compliance with inspection and repair requirements.
What Types of Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To understand what led to the crash, investigators will likely examine the Engine Control Module (ECM) from both trucks, any dashcam or onboard video systems, and statements from both drivers. Roadway surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts can also help clarify vehicle positioning and speeds. Reviewing the trucking companies’ maintenance logs and driver qualification files will be key to assessing whether proper protocols were followed.
Why a Thorough Investigation Is Necessary
When two commercial vehicles collide on a major highway, the implications go beyond traffic delays. These crashes can point to underlying safety issues involving driver behavior, vehicle maintenance, or company oversight. That’s why a complete investigation is so important. It can help identify what went wrong and whether steps should have been taken to prevent the crash. In my experience, reviewing every detail is the only way to ensure accountability.