A three-vehicle collision on State Highway 27 near Erickson Road in the Town of Christiana was reported at 10:45 a.m. on Sunday, September 28. According to officials, 61-year-old Terry Erickson was stopped in the southbound lane waiting to turn left with his signal on. Behind him, 54-year-old Suzanne Bassette was traveling south and noticed a semi-truck allegedly approaching at high speed and steered to the right shoulder to avoid being hit. The semi-truck, operated by a 17-year-old driver, jackknifed, allegedly striking the utility trailer Erickson was towing and also colliding with a car driven by 68-year-old John Sharp.
The semi-truck driver sustained serious injuries and was flown to the hospital for treatment. John Sharp was also injured and taken to the hospital. Erickson and Bassette were uninjured.
When crashes involve a semi-truck allegedly losing control, investigators have to consider a number of potential contributing factors beyond driver error. With a vehicle this size, the combination of speed, stopping distance, and trailer stability can quickly escalate a developing situation into a multi-vehicle collision.
Possible Role of Fatigue or Distraction
One question investigators will need to consider is whether distraction or fatigue played a role in the truck driver’s delayed reaction. Commercial vehicle operators must remain alert at all times, and even a momentary lapse can limit their ability to respond to slowing or stopped traffic ahead. Fatigue is particularly dangerous because it often develops gradually and can impair judgment long before the driver recognizes it.
Mechanical and Equipment Considerations
Jackknifing can sometimes be a sign of mechanical or equipment-related problems, such as issues with braking systems, improper trailer loading, or tire condition. Investigators will need to review whether the semi-truck was properly maintained and whether equipment performance contributed to the loss of control.
Evidence That Should Be Reviewed
To understand what led to this crash, authorities will likely examine several key pieces of evidence. The Engine Control Module (ECM) from the semi could show speed, braking, and throttle use leading up to the jackknife. Physical marks on the road, such as skid or yaw marks, can reveal when braking began and how effective it was. Investigators will also interview all drivers and review witness accounts to establish how each vehicle was positioned prior to impact.
Why Getting Clear Answers Matters
Questions remain about what caused the semi-truck to lose control. A thorough investigation is the only way to determine whether distraction, fatigue, mechanical issues, or other factors played the primary role in this collision. These answers are essential for those directly affected by the crash.
call us 
Email Us 
Text us 
AI-SEARCH