Fayetteville, NC — September 4, 2024, one person was killed following a single-truck accident sometime in the evening along I.H. 95.
According to authorities, an 18-wheeler was traveling in the right-hand northbound lane of Interstate Highway 95 in the vicinity of the exit for Godwin when the accident took place.

As the truck attempted to merge into the left lane, officials indicate that it allegedly experienced a tire blowout. Loose debris from the tire reportedly led to the saddle tank catching fire and exploding. Following that, the truck veered further to the left where it collided with the concrete barrier dividing the north and southbound lanes of the interstate.
The person who had been behind the wheel of the truck suffered reportedly fatal injuries as a result of the wreck and was declared deceased at the scene. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identity of the victim—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When accidents like this happen, it’s easy to assume they are just a result of bad timing or driver error. However, based on my experience, crashes involving large trucks often have more complex causes that require deeper investigation. In this case, while it might appear that a tire blowout was the primary cause, other factors, including maintenance and the mechanical integrity of the vehicle, should be examined closely.
One notable aspect of this accident is the explosion of the truck’s saddle tank. The saddle tank is where trucks store fuel, and while blowouts are a risk all truckers face, it’s less common for them to lead to a fire or explosion unless there are aggravating factors. Investigating whether the truck was properly maintained, including regular tire checks and the condition of the fuel system, could help explain why this situation escalated. Fires caused by fuel tanks in these accidents can result in devastating consequences, not just for the trucker but for surrounding vehicles and road conditions.
Additionally, if the truck involved was operating under a commercial trucking company, the company could bear some responsibility. Companies are required to ensure that their vehicles are maintained properly, especially when it comes to critical components like tires and fuel tanks. Any failure in these areas may suggest that the company shares accountability for what happened.
Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the crash. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain vital evidence, it is crucial to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the crash receive the clarity and closure they deserve.