A crash involving a semi-truck and a sedan in Goodyear sent one person to the hospital Friday morning. The collision happened at the intersection of 151st Avenue and Van Buren Street around 7:15 a.m. Fire crews extricated a person trapped inside the sedan, who was then transported for evaluation. Another individual declined medical treatment at the scene. Authorities have not yet released information about what caused the crash, and Goodyear Police are continuing to investigate.
When a crash involves a commercial vehicle, it raises important questions about how the truck was being operated and whether the truck was in an operable condition.
Could Mechanical Issues Have Played a Role?
Large commercial trucks require frequent inspection and maintenance to stay safe on the road. If the truck involved in this crash had any mechanical defects—like worn brakes, tire blowouts, or steering system problems—they may have limited the driver’s ability to avoid a collision. Investigators will likely want to review the vehicle’s maintenance logs and check whether the truck had any outstanding issues that weren’t addressed before it was put on the road.
Could Fatigue or Distraction Have Played a Role?
Driver fatigue and distraction are among the most common causes of commercial vehicle collisions. Even with strict hours-of-service regulations in place, enforcement can be inconsistent, and drivers may feel pressure to meet delivery deadlines. Investigators should examine logbooks, GPS records, and cell phone usage to determine if the driver was overly fatigued or distracted in the moments before the crash.
What Kinds of Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To understand how this crash occurred, investigators should review dashcam footage and statements from witnesses or nearby drivers. The semi-truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) can provide critical details, such as the truck’s speed, braking activity, and steering input prior to the crash. Reviewing maintenance records could also help determine if any mechanical issues contributed to the collision.
The Importance of a Full Investigation
When a crash involves a semi-truck, it’s essential to figure out why the accident happened in the first place. In my experience, key details—like how well the vehicle was maintained or whether the driver was inattentive—are often overlooked in early reports. But these are the very details that explain how and why the crash happened. A complete investigation is the only way to ensure accountability and provide answers for those affected.