A multi-vehicle crash on I-75 in Hillsborough County sent one person to the hospital Monday morning after a tractor-trailer rear-ended a car in heavy traffic, triggering a four-vehicle chain reaction. The Florida Highway Patrol reports that the truck driver, a 55-year-old man, failed to slow down for stopped or slow-moving vehicles near mile marker 262. The semi collided with a Nissan Maxima, which then struck a Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Suzuki Grand Vitara. The 62-year-old driver of the Nissan was seriously injured and transported to a nearby hospital. The crash occurred just before 11:30 a.m.
When I hear about a chain-reaction crash involving a semi-truck, I think about how often these incidents are tied to preventable factors—particularly when the truck doesn’t respond to slowing traffic. In my experience, a thorough investigation is the only way to determine why the truck didn’t stop in time and whether this crash could have been avoided.
Was the Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
When a commercial truck plows into slowed or stopped traffic, one of the first questions I ask is whether the driver was fully alert. Distraction—such as using a phone—or fatigue can significantly reduce reaction times, especially in congested traffic. Investigators will likely review the truck driver's phone records, hours-of-service logs, and dash camera footage to determine if they were alert and focused on the road when the crash occurred.
Could Mechanical Issues Have Played a Role?
Brake failure or other mechanical problems could also explain why the semi didn’t stop in time. Tractor-trailers must be kept in good working order, and even small maintenance issues can lead to catastrophic results. Investigators should review the truck’s maintenance logs and inspect the braking system to rule out mechanical failure as a contributing factor.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To determine what caused the crash, investigators will need to examine dashcam footage, Engine Control Module (ECM) data, and GPS logs from the semi. Skid marks and vehicle damage patterns can help reconstruct the sequence of impacts. Witness statements, especially from other drivers involved, may also shed light on the movement of the truck before impact.
The Importance of Asking These Questions
When a crash involves a commercial vehicle, it’s not enough to assume the cause—it must be proven. A complete investigation helps determine whether the truck was operated safely, whether the driver was alert, and whether the vehicle itself was in proper working condition. In my experience, these investigations often reveal critical details that aren’t immediately obvious but are necessary to understand the full picture and provide answers to those affected.