A fatal crash took place Monday morning in a Highway 17 construction zone in Texas County, Missouri. Authorities say a 2014 Dodge Journey was stopped in a construction zone when it was allegedly rear-ended by a southbound 2021 International box truck. The impact killed the 80-year-old driver of the Dodge at the scene and seriously injured a 79-year-old passenger, who was airlifted to Cox South Hospital. The driver of the box truck sustained minor injuries. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.
When a commercial vehicle crashes into a stopped vehicle in a work zone, it's critical to examine whether the truck was being operated with proper attention and care. In this case, investigators will need to look at potential fatigue, distraction, mechanical failures, and other factors.
Was the Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
Rear-end collisions involving large commercial vehicles often suggest inattention or fatigue. Work zones typically involve slower speeds and frequent stops, and commercial drivers are required to remain especially alert in these areas. If the box truck driver failed to respond to clear visual cues like brake lights, signage, or slowed traffic, it could point to distracted driving, drowsiness, or a failure to properly manage stopping distance.
Could a Mechanical Problem Have Prevented the Driver From Stopping?
Another possibility investigators should consider is whether the truck experienced a mechanical failure. Brake problems, steering issues, or other defects in the vehicle’s systems can prevent a driver from reacting appropriately, even if they’re alert. Inspecting the truck’s maintenance history and checking whether it was recently serviced or reported for mechanical issues could help determine if the vehicle itself played a role in the crash. In some cases, faulty parts or poor fleet maintenance practices can contribute to or cause catastrophic failures on the road.
What Evidence Should Be Collected?
Investigators should examine the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data to determine speed, braking behavior, and throttle input prior to the collision. Dash cam footage could also show whether the driver was distracted. In addition, logbooks, cell phone records, and the driver’s hours-of-service compliance should be reviewed. Skid marks, lane positions, and the work zone’s signage setup may also play a role in understanding how the crash unfolded.
Why Full Investigations Into Commercial Crashes Matter
In my experience handling similar cases, crashes involving box trucks and other commercial vehicles in work zones often involve preventable mistakes. Commercial drivers have a heightened duty of care because their vehicles can cause so much damage in a collision. A thorough investigation is essential to uncover whether driver error, fatigue, poor vehicle maintenance, or other failures contributed to this incident. Ultimately, it is the best way to provide clear answers to those affected.