Williamsburg, KY — December 10, 2024, Addison Bailey was killed and Michael Waits was injured in a truck accident about 3:15 p.m. on Interstate 75.
Authorities said a Ford F-150 collided with a semi-truck while both were southbound near mile marker 15 north of Williamsburg, where the interstate meets the Cumberland Falls Highway.
Addison Bailey, 24, was a passenger in the Ford, according to authorities. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Driver Michael Waits, 23, was treated and released after being transported to an area hospital, authorities said.
There is no indication at this time that the semi driver was injured in the Whitley County crash.
Authorities have not released any additional details about the crash, which is still under investigation.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
This accident raises several questions that can only be answered through a thorough investigation that goes well beyond the crash scene. While it’s tempting to assume fault based on initial reports, experience has shown me that these cases are rarely as straightforward as they seem. Let’s break down some key aspects that demand scrutiny.
From the limited information available, we know the crash involved two vehicles traveling the same direction. But how did the collision occur? Were both vehicles maintaining proper speed and lane discipline? Did one driver engage in sudden, unexpected maneuvers? These are crucial questions that require answers before assigning blame.
For the semi-truck, it’s important to investigate whether the driver was distracted, fatigued or poorly trained. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are adequately trained and rested, as well as following all safety protocols. Was the driver pressured to meet unrealistic deadlines, leading to risky behavior? A deep dive into the driver’s logs, training records and company policies might reveal whether systemic issues contributed to the crash.
Mechanical failures or environmental conditions, such as glare, road surface issues, or even weather, could also play a role. Trucks often carry event data recorders (“black boxes”) that could provide critical details about the vehicle’s condition at the time of the crash, such as speed, braking and steering inputs. Were these systems functioning correctly, or did a defect contribute to the collision? Investigators should analyze this data along with any available dashcam footage.
Trucking accidents are rarely caused by a single factor. Often, multiple parties—including the trucking company, vehicle maintenance providers, and even cargo loaders—bear some responsibility. For instance, if the semi-truck’s condition played a role, the investigation should evaluate whether it was properly maintained.
What strikes me most is the tendency for official crash investigations to stop at the scene. Gathering witness statements and filing a police report is only the beginning. Independent investigations often uncover vital details missed by initial reports. This can include obtaining cell phone records, interviewing witnesses more thoroughly and inspecting both vehicles in a controlled setting.
Without an in-depth inquiry, it’s impossible to know the full story behind this crash. I hope investigators take the necessary steps to ensure all potential factors are examined. The victim’s family deserves a complete picture of what happened in this case.
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