A multi-vehicle crash on US 20 in LaGrange County sent two people to the hospital Thursday after a semi-truck allegedly failed to notice stopped traffic. According to the LaGrange County Sheriff’s Office, the semi rear-ended a pickup truck, which was then pushed into a Ford Mustang. The Mustang was forced underneath a box truck, which in turn rear-ended another semi. Emergency crews transported a passenger from the pickup truck to a nearby hospital, while firefighters had to extract the driver of the Mustang, who was then airlifted to a hospital in Fort Wayne. The extent of their injuries remains unknown.
Whenever I hear about a semi-truck failing to stop for slowed traffic, I immediately wonder whether the driver was distracted, fatigued, or following too closely. Large commercial vehicles require significantly more stopping distance than passenger cars, making it critical for truck drivers to remain alert and adjust their speed accordingly.
Was the Semi-Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
Investigators should examine whether the semi driver was paying full attention to the road leading up to the crash. Distraction, such as cell phone use, adjusting in-cab controls, or simply not scanning the road ahead, could explain why the truck didn’t stop in time. Fatigue is another potential factor, as drowsy driving can impair reaction times. Reviewing driver logs, phone records, and any available dashcam footage could provide insight into what was happening inside the cab before impact.
Was the Truck Following Too Closely for Conditions?
Commercial truck drivers are trained to maintain a safe following distance, but in heavy traffic or sudden slowdowns, stopping in time can become difficult if proper distance isn’t maintained. Investigators should look at skid marks, ECM (Engine Control Module) data, and witness statements to determine whether the truck was following too closely and whether the driver had enough time to react.
Why Thorough Investigations Matter
Investigating crashes like this is crucial for those who are affected by it. In my experience, thorough investigations often reveal preventable factors that can help bring accountability and a clearer understanding of what happened. In this case, it may help clarify why the semi-truck crashed into stopped traffic in the first place.