Hot Springs, SD — December 27, 2024, Joseph Myers was killed in a truck accident at about 7:45 a.m. on U.S. Route 18.
Authorities said a 2003 Honda Accord lost control while trying to pass another eastbound vehicle west of Hot Springs, crashing into an ongoing semi-truck.
Honda driver Joseph Daniel Myers, 26, died in the Fall River County crash, according to authorities. The 59-year-old truck driver was not injured.
Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash near mile marker 25.
The accident is still under investigation.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When I hear about a crash involving a vehicle losing control during a passing maneuver and colliding with a semi-truck, my first question is whether the conditions for passing were safe and whether the maneuver was executed properly. Passing on two-lane highways always carries a degree of risk, particularly in areas where visibility or road conditions may be limited.
One key issue in this crash is why the Honda Accord lost control. Was the driver traveling at an excessive speed, or did road conditions, such as ice or debris, contribute to the loss of control? Investigators should look at weather reports and examine the road surface for any hazards that may have made it difficult for the vehicle to maintain traction during the pass.
Another important factor is the location of the crash. Was this section of U.S. Route 18 marked as a legal passing zone, and was there adequate visibility for the Honda driver to judge the distance and speed of oncoming traffic? Poor visibility due to curves, hills or obstructions can make passing more dangerous, even when the road is technically marked for it.
The actions of the semi-truck driver also deserve attention, although their vehicle was the one struck. Did the truck driver have enough time to react to the Honda losing control and entering their path? While it may not have been possible to avoid the collision, data from the truck’s black box, such as speed and braking activity, could help clarify the timeline of events.
Lastly, it’s worth considering whether the Honda’s condition played a role in the crash. Investigators should review whether the vehicle’s tires and braking systems were in proper working order, as issues in either could have contributed to the loss of control.
This crash highlights the dangers of passing maneuvers on rural highways, particularly when conditions are less than ideal. Understanding what caused the Honda to lose control will be essential to identifying any steps that could help reduce the likelihood of similar crashes in the future, whether through roadway improvements, driver education or stricter maintenance standards.
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