Early Monday morning, a pedestrian was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer and multiple other vehicles on Route 101 in Keene. According to police, the crash occurred around 5:15 a.m. near Swanzey Factory Road when a tractor-trailer hit 58-year-old Wallace Clark in the westbound lane. At least two additional vehicles also made contact with Clark after the initial impact. The investigation is ongoing, but authorities have stated that speed and impairment do not appear to be factors.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this, I think about the investigative steps needed to understand what happened. Commercial truck drivers operate large, heavy vehicles that require constant awareness and attention. In cases like this, investigators should consider whether the driver was distracted or if mechanical issues played a role.
Was the Truck Driver Distracted?
Given the early morning hour of the crash, one critical question is whether the truck driver was paying full attention to the road. Commercial drivers are required to follow strict safety guidelines, including maintaining focus on the roadway and avoiding distractions such as mobile devices or in-cab electronics. Investigators will need to review cell phone records, dashcam footage, and witness statements to determine whether distraction contributed to the crash.
Was the Truck Functioning Properly?
Mechanical issues with a truck, whether with lights or other parts, can lead to severe accidents. Investigators should examine whether the truck’s headlights were properly illuminating the roadway and whether all necessary lighting, such as fog lights and side markers, was operational. Additionally, authorities should examine whether the brakes and steering mechanisms are in working order.
Evidence That Should Be Examined
A thorough investigation should include a review of the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) to determine if there were potential mechanical issues. Dashcam footage could provide crucial insight into the driver’s behavior before the impact. Investigators should also check nearby traffic or surveillance cameras for additional context, as well as the driver’s cell phone data to see if distraction was a potential factor in the crash.
The Importance of a Full Investigation
When a pedestrian is struck by a commercial vehicle, it’s essential to examine every possible contributing factor. In my experience, crashes like this often have multiple causes, and only a thorough investigation can uncover the full story. Ensuring that all relevant questions are answered will help those affected understand what happened.