1 Killed, 1 Injured in Truck Accident on U.S. Route 19 near Morgantown, WV

Morgantown, WV — January 14, 2025, one person was killed and one was injured in a truck crash at about 5:30 a.m. on U.S. Route 19/Blue Horizon Road.

Authorities said a Toyota SUV was headed north when it crashed head-on with a coal truck.

The Toyota driver died at the scene of the Monongalia County crash, according to authorities, while the truck driver was hospitalized with minor injuries. Their names have not been made public at this time.

No additional details about the crash have been released at this point.

The accident is still being investigated.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

This head-on collision on U.S. Route 19 raises important questions about how and why the two vehicles ended up in each other’s paths. Crashes involving commercial trucks and smaller passenger vehicles often have devastating outcomes, making it essential to examine the circumstances surrounding this incident.

One key question is whether either vehicle crossed into the opposing lane. Evidence such as tire marks, vehicle positions and witness statements will help clarify how the crash unfolded.

The actions of the coal truck driver also warrant scrutiny. Was the truck traveling at an appropriate speed for the road, particularly at the early hour when visibility may have been limited? Commercial truck drivers are expected to maintain a heightened level of caution due to the size and weight of their vehicles. Investigators will likely review the truck’s engine control module (ECM) data and any available dashcam footage to determine if the driver had time to react and whether evasive actions were taken.

The design and condition of U.S. Route 19 are also relevant. Was the road adequately marked and maintained, with clear dividing lines and sufficient lighting? Rural roads and highways can pose challenges for drivers, particularly in areas with narrow lanes or limited sightlines. If the road played a role, improvements such as better signage or road widening may be needed to enhance safety.

For the family of the Toyota driver, understanding how this crash occurred is essential to finding closure and accountability. A thorough investigation will help determine whether driver behavior, vehicle conditions or road design were contributing factors and may identify ways to reduce the risk of similar collisions in the future.