Putnam County, WV — November 13, 2024, Zachary Fisher was killed following a single-vehicle truck accident at around 9:00 a.m. along U.S. Highway 35.

According to authorities, a man from Jackson, Ohio—35-year-old Zachary Fisher—was traveling in a log truck with no load on U.S. 35 in the vicinity of Hurricane Creek when the accident took place.

Zachary Fisher Killed in Truck Accident on U.S. 35 in Putnam County, WV

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, the truck failed to safely maintain its lane of travel. It reportedly veered off of the roadway, crashing through a guardrail and overturning. Fisher suffered fatal injuries as a result of the wreck, according to reports, and was declared deceased at the scene. Additional details pertaining to this incident are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

Single-vehicle truck accidents, like this one involving a log truck, often raise critical questions about what went wrong and whether the crash could have been prevented. From my experience, incidents like these frequently involve factors such as driver behavior, mechanical failures, or operational practices that require careful examination to determine responsibility.

One area of focus is the actions of the driver leading up to the crash. Failing to maintain a lane can result from a variety of issues, including distraction, fatigue, or medical emergencies. Investigators should examine the driver’s history, logs, and any event recorder data to determine whether they were fully alert and complying with regulations designed to reduce the risks of fatigue or impairment.

Mechanical issues may also play a role in accidents like this. Braking systems, steering components, and tire integrity are critical for maintaining control, especially in larger vehicles like log trucks. Investigators should review the truck’s maintenance and inspection records to identify whether a mechanical failure contributed to the crash. If lapses in maintenance or faulty components are discovered, responsibility may extend to the trucking company or third-party maintenance providers.

The role of the trucking company is another important element. Companies have a duty to ensure their drivers are adequately trained and their vehicles are properly maintained and inspected. If the investigation reveals gaps in oversight or operational pressures that may have encouraged unsafe driving, the company could share responsibility for what occurred.

Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by this crash. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain critical evidence, it’s essential to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the accident receive the clarity and closure they deserve.

Explore cases we take