A multi-vehicle crash involving three commercial trucks and a passenger vehicle caused traffic delays near US 20 and Indiana 39 on Friday morning. According to LaPorte County Police, the semi-truck overturned on its side, spilling part of its cargo onto the roadway. At least one person was injured in the crash. The passenger vehicle also sustained heavy damage and was found off the roadway. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the collision.
Whenever I hear about a crash involving multiple commercial vehicles, I think about whether one of the truck drivers was following too closely or failed to adjust their driving for traffic conditions. Semi-trucks require more space to stop safely, and when they don’t have that space, the consequences can be severe.
Did Speed or Following Distance Play a Role?
Large commercial vehicles need longer stopping distances, especially when carrying heavy loads. If traffic slowed or stopped before the crash, investigators should determine whether the semi-truck driver was following too closely to stop. If the truck overturned while attempting to avoid another vehicle, it may indicate that the driver was traveling too fast for conditions or following too closely.
Was the Load Properly Secured?
When a semi-truck carrying aggregate material overturns, it raises questions about whether the cargo was properly secured. If the load shifted unexpectedly, it could have contributed to the truck losing stability. Investigators should examine cargo weight, load distribution, and securement methods to determine if improper loading was a factor.
What Evidence Should Be Examined?
To fully understand what led to the crash, investigators should analyze the Engine Control Module (ECM) data from each commercial vehicle, which can reveal braking actions, speed, and steering inputs leading up to the collision. They should also review dashcam footage, witness statements, and physical evidence from the crash site to determine how the vehicles interacted before the impact.
Why Even Ask These Questions?
Crashes involving multiple commercial vehicles can be complex, with various factors contributing to the outcome. Determining whether driver behavior, improper cargo loading, or mechanical failure played a role is crucial for understanding what happened. In my experience, these investigations often reveal key details that weren’t immediately apparent, but they are essential for getting the full picture of the crash.