Aberdeen, NC — December 17, 2024, one person was killed in a truck accident at about noon at the intersection of U.S. 15-501 and Pee Dee Road.
Authorities said the crash involved a car and a flatbed truck, but further details have not been released at this time.
The crash reportedly left the truck, which was hauling lumber, blocking both lanes of the highway, with the car stuck underneath it.
The woman who had been driving the car was pronounced dead at the scene, authorities said. She has not been identified at this point.
The accident is still under investigation.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
This accident raises serious concerns about both the flatbed truck’s role and the circumstances surrounding the collision. The flatbed truck was hauling lumber, and its involvement likely contributed to the severity of the crash. Investigators must determine whether the truck’s cargo was properly secured and whether its weight or positioning affected the truck’s maneuverability or braking ability. Additionally, flatbed trucks often have a higher risk of cargo shifting during sudden stops or turns. If improperly secured, this could have exacerbated the crash’s consequences.
Flatbed truck drivers must adhere to strict safety protocols due to the size and weight of their vehicles. Investigators should assess the truck driver’s actions, including speed leading up to the crash., observance of traffic controls and adherence to federal hours-of-service regulations to rule out fatigue.
The report indicates the car ended up beneath the flatbed truck, which suggests an underride collision. These types of crashes are often catastrophic and raise questions about the presence and effectiveness of underride guards on the truck. Federal safety regulations require these guards, but their maintenance and design vary.
Critical evidence, such as ECM (black box) data from the truck, dashcam footage and witness statements, must be collected promptly. This evidence can provide insights into vehicle speed, braking patterns and other factors at the time of the collision.
Investigators also should consider if the crash was influenced by environmental factors such as weather, lighting or road surface conditions.
This crash highlights the severe risks posed by flatbed trucks at intersections and underscores the importance of thorough investigations into both vehicle and driver-related factors. A detailed inquiry is essential to identify liability and ensure accountability after this fatal accident.
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