Two semi-trucks and two passenger vehicles were involved in a serious crash on Interstate 44 at mile marker 143.2 in Laclede County on the afternoon of August 6. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the driver of a 2024 Freightliner allegedly hydroplaned and struck a bridge, allegedly leading to a chain reaction involving a 2009 Mitsubishi Galant, a 2024 Peterbilt semi-truck, and a 2024 Toyota Sequoia. The Peterbilt driver sustained serious injuries and was taken to Mercy Springfield. The driver of the Mitsubishi suffered moderate injuries and was transported to Mercy Lebanon. The other drivers were not hurt.
When I read that two semi-trucks were involved in a crash, I immediately think about how quickly road conditions can challenge even experienced commercial drivers. It raises questions about how those vehicles were being driven in those conditions.
Could Driver Distraction or Fatigue Have Contributed?
Hydroplaning is often blamed entirely on road conditions, but driver decisions play a major role in avoiding or minimizing the effects. If the driver was fatigued, it could have reduced their ability to respond quickly when the truck began to lose traction. Distraction can have a similar effect, preventing a driver from making the steering and braking adjustments needed to recover control. Investigators will likely want to determine how long each truck driver had been on the road, whether they were operating within hours-of-service limits, and if any distractions inside or outside the cab could have interfered with their ability to react.
Could a Mechanical Issue Have Played a Role?
While weather is a factor in many hydroplaning incidents, the condition of the semi-truck’s tires, brakes, and suspension can significantly affect how a vehicle handles in wet conditions. If the Freightliner’s tires lacked sufficient tread depth or were unevenly worn, it could have made hydroplaning more likely. Similarly, if braking or stability control systems were not functioning properly, that might have made it harder for the driver to regain control. Given that the Freightliner struck a bridge before the chain reaction occurred, it will be important for investigators to consider whether the truck had any mechanical or equipment defects that contributed to the loss of control.
Evidence That Should Be Examined
To understand the sequence of events, investigators should review the Engine Control Module of both trucks to see vehicle speed, brake application, and throttle position before the collision. A close inspection of the tires and braking systems could help determine if wear or defects were a factor. Maintenance and inspection records will be important in identifying whether any safety issues had been noted but not addressed. If dash camera or roadside camera footage is available, it may also provide clarity on how quickly the first truck lost control and whether evasive action was taken.
Why Getting the Full Picture Matters
When a semi-truck loses control and sets off a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles, it’s essential to identify every contributing factor. In this case, two people were hurt and significant damage occurred. A thorough investigation will help determine exactly what happened and why.