North Little Rock, AR — December 1, 2024, Craig Sailor was killed following a car accident that occurred at around 6:10 A.M. on I-40.

An investigation is underway following a car accident that led to the death of a pedestrian during the morning hours of December 1st. According to official reports, Craig Sailor attempted to cross the highway on foot near mile marker 146 when he was struck by a pickup truck travelling in the eastbound lanes.
When first responders arrived on the scene they found that Sailor had sustained critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. At this stage of the investigation there are still many details that have yet to be released by authorities, however the accident remains an open investigation and more details may be released in the future.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When incidents like the one on I-40, that resulted in a fatality, I think about the need to understand how such a tragedy occurred. While the basic facts are clear—a pedestrian struck by a vehicle—there are often deeper questions that require thorough investigation. To uncover the full truth, every such case must address three critical questions.
First, did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? Pedestrian accidents on highways are complex and often involve unique challenges in determining the full scope of contributing factors. Were there barriers or other safety features designed to prevent pedestrian access to the interstate? Investigators must also consider environmental factors, such as lighting, visibility, and weather conditions at the time of the collision, as well as whether the driver of the pickup truck had sufficient time to react. These details are critical to understanding the broader circumstances of the incident.
Second, has anyone looked into the possibility that a vehicle defect contributed to the crash? While pedestrian crashes may seem unrelated to vehicle performance, it’s still important to examine whether any mechanical issues in the pickup truck played a role. For instance, a problem with the truck’s braking or steering systems could have affected the driver’s ability to avoid the collision. Preserving the vehicle for inspection and conducting a forensic analysis ensures that this possibility is not overlooked.
Third, has all electronic data relating to the crash been collected? The pickup truck’s electronic control module (ECM) could provide key information, such as the speed of the vehicle, braking inputs, and steering adjustments in the moments before the crash. This data might help clarify whether the driver took evasive action. Additionally, any nearby traffic cameras or surveillance footage could provide visual evidence of the crash or its lead-up. Cell phone records from the driver may also be relevant to determine whether distractions played a role. Securing and analyzing this data promptly is essential to obtaining a complete understanding of the event.
These questions are crucial for finding answers and making sense of this loss. While no investigation can undo what has happened, thoroughly examining every aspect of the crash ensures that no detail is overlooked. Beyond providing closure for those affected, such investigations can help identify ways to improve safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.