A multi-vehicle crash on southbound I-75 near Sashabaw Road resulted in one fatality and another person injured. According to Michigan State Police, a charter bus allegedly failed to stop in time, initiating a chain-reaction crash that involved a red pickup truck, an SUV, a utility truck, and a semi-truck parked on the right shoulder. The driver of the red pickup truck died at the scene, while the driver of the SUV was hospitalized with injuries.
With a bus involved, I wonder what roles driver attentiveness and mechanical issues played in the crash. Much like other commercial vehicles, buses need to be operated with caution and require regular maintenance to be safe for the road.
Could a Mechanical Issue Have Prevented the Bus from Stopping in Time?
Since the bus driver was reportedly unable to stop before triggering the crash, investigators should examine whether mechanical failures contributed to the collision. Brake system failures, worn-out tires, or transmission issues could have made it harder for the driver to slow down in time. Reviewing the bus’s maintenance records and inspection history will be key to determining whether the vehicle was in proper working order.
Was the Charter Bus Driver Distracted or Following Too Closely?
Investigators should also assess whether distraction or following too closely played a role. Large commercial vehicles require greater stopping distances, especially when traffic is already at a standstill. Reviewing dashcam footage, driver records, and phone activity logs could help determine whether inattentiveness contributed to the initial collision.
Evidence That Should Be Considered
To fully understand the sequence of events, investigators should analyze traffic camera footage, witness statements, and data from the Engine Control Module (ECM) of the bus to determine its actions before the crash. Specifically, the braking data from the charter bus should be examined to determine whether the driver attempted to slow down before the crash.
The Importance of a Detailed Investigation
Pileups involving commercial vehicles often highlight the importance of safe following distances and awareness in heavy traffic. In my experience, these investigations often reveal details that aren’t immediately obvious at the scene but are crucial for understanding the full scope of the crash. Determining liability is key in providing answers for those affected.