Lonoke County, AR — January 31, 2025, Sherry Meadows was killed in a truck accident at about 4:50 a.m. on eastbound Interstate 40.
Authorities said a 2014 Toyota Camry was trying to steer around a Kenworth semi-truck that was stopped near mile marker 165 when both vehicles were hit by another Kenworth semi-truck. The parked truck was on the right shoulder, but it was partially blocked the right lane as well.
Toyota driver Sherry Meadows, 51, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash near Lonoke, according to authorities.
No other injuries were reported.
Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash at this time. The accident is still under investigation.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When I hear about a crash where a vehicle is struck while trying to maneuver around a semi-truck that is partially blocking a lane, my first question is, “Why was the truck positioned in a way that created a hazard for other drivers?” Many people assume that highway crashes are simply the result of driver error, but in my experience, a stopped semi-truck in or near a traffic lane is often a major contributing factor.
One of the first things investigators should determine is why the first Kenworth was parked in a way that extended into the right lane. Was it experiencing mechanical failure, or did the driver stop for another reason? If the truck was disabled, investigators should examine whether the driver activated hazard lights, deployed warning triangles and followed federal safety regulations for stopping on a highway. Too often, truck drivers fail to take these necessary precautions, leaving other motorists with little time to react.
Another key factor is visibility. This crash happened before dawn, when low-light conditions make it harder for drivers to recognize stationary hazards ahead. Investigators should examine whether the stopped truck had proper lighting and reflective markings visible to approaching traffic. Reviewing available dashcam footage or traffic camera recordings could help determine whether the Toyota driver had enough time to react or if the parked truck was difficult to see until it was too late.
The role of the second semi-truck that struck both vehicles also deserves attention. Was the driver paying attention and traveling at a speed appropriate for conditions? ECM (black box) data from this truck could help determine whether the driver had enough time to see the situation developing ahead and take evasive action. If the trucker was following too closely or not scanning the road ahead properly, that could have contributed to the severity of the crash.
At this stage, too little is known to say exactly what led to this wreck, but that’s why a thorough investigation is necessary. Looking at why the first truck was stopped, how visible it was and whether the second truck had time to react will be key in understanding whether this crash was truly unavoidable or if failures in judgment or safety precautions contributed to the outcome.
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