A crash involving two tractor-trailers early Sunday morning, May 19, shut down the southbound lanes of Interstate 95 near Exit 145 to NC Highway 4 in Nash County. The collision occurred around 2:30 a.m., when a southbound Volvo semi-truck allegedly rear-ended a Mack truck, causing the Volvo to jackknife and separate from its trailer. The impact left both trucks blocking the entire roadway. Emergency responders transported the Volvo driver to UNC Nash with injuries that were not life-threatening. The Mack truck was occupied by Artinus Shands, his wife, and their 3-year-old child, all of whom were taken to the hospital for evaluation as a precaution.
Whenever I hear about a crash involving two tractor-trailers like this, I’m reminded of how essential it is to examine every contributing factor. These kinds of highway collisions can often be traced back to just a few seconds of inattention or a mechanical failure, and the only way to find out what really happened is through a detailed, fact-driven investigation.
Could Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
Since the collision happened around 2:30 a.m., it's fair to ask whether driver fatigue may have contributed. It's well documented that the early morning hours are a high-risk time for long-haul truckers. Even a few seconds of drowsiness or distraction can prevent a driver from slowing down in time. Investigators should examine hours-of-service logs, electronic logging device (ELD) data, and in-cab video systems to determine whether the driver was alert and operating within mandated limits.
Key Evidence That Should Be Reviewed
Understanding how this crash occurred requires a careful review of physical and electronic evidence. The Engine Control Modules (ECMs) from both semis can offer critical data on speed, braking, throttle input, and more. Investigators should also look at dash cam footage, highway surveillance video, skid mark analysis, and any eyewitness accounts. That combination of data will help determine the sequence of events.
Why These Investigations Are So Important
In my experience, serious crashes between commercial vehicles are rarely the result of a single mistake. Often, they involve a mix of human error, fatigue, speed, and even potential mechanical issues. A thorough investigation is the best way to determine exactly what happened and why.