Fife, WA — December 3, 2024, one person was injured in a morning truck accident on State Route 99/Pacific Highway.
Authorities said a semi-truck was going west on Pacific Highway when another semi-truck turned in front of it while turning from Port of Tacoma Road. The first truck was unable to avoid a collision before it veered across the eastbound lanes of the highway and crashed into a closed hotel.
No other vehicles were involved in the accident.
The driver suffered minor injuries in the crash, according to authorities. The other driver was not injured.
The accident is still under investigation as authorities work to figure out which truck had the right of way at the time of the crash.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
Whenever I read about a crash involving two semi-trucks my first thought is to examine how the vehicles came to be in each other’s paths. Determining which truck had the right of way, as authorities are currently investigating, will be key to understanding how this collision occurred and who may bear responsibility.
One critical question is whether the truck turning from Port of Tacoma Road did so safely. Truck drivers must ensure they have sufficient time and space to complete a turn without obstructing the flow of oncoming traffic. If the turning truck misjudged the distance or speed of the westbound semi-truck, that could explain why the crash occurred.
The actions of the westbound truck also warrant attention. Was it traveling at an appropriate speed and within the posted limits for Pacific Highway? Large trucks take longer to stop than passenger vehicles, and excessive speed or following too closely can reduce a driver’s ability to react to unexpected obstacles, like a truck turning across their path.
Another area of focus should be the road environment. Highway intersections are often busy with commercial traffic, making clear signage, proper lane markings and functioning signals critical. Investigators should evaluate whether these features were present and in good condition, as well as whether visibility was adequate for both drivers to see and react to each other.
Finally, the condition of both trucks should be examined. Factors like malfunctioning brakes, worn tires or mechanical issues could have played a role in either truck’s ability to stop or maneuver effectively to avoid the crash.
This incident also highlights the potential for secondary damage in truck accidents. After the initial collision, the westbound truck veered into an abandoned hotel, which could have resulted in even greater harm if the building had been occupied. This underscores the importance of thorough investigations and driver training to minimize the risks of such incidents.
Ultimately, determining the cause of this crash will require a detailed review of the drivers’ actions, the roadway conditions, and the mechanical state of the trucks. By addressing these factors, investigators can identify steps to improve safety and prevent similar crashes in the future.
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