A crash between two semi-trucks on the 60 Freeway near the 57 Freeway in Diamond Bar resulted in one fatality and another person being hospitalized early Thursday morning. According to the California Highway Patrol, both trucks ended up on their sides following the collision, which occurred just after 4:10 a.m.
Whenever I hear about crashes like this, I think about whether speed, distraction, or mechanical failures played a role. Semi-truck collisions can be particularly dangerous due to their size and weight, and even minor miscalculations can have devastating consequences.
What Led to the Collision?
One critical question is how the crash unfolded—whether one truck lost control, changed lanes improperly, or was stopped when it was hit. Given that both trucks overturned, it suggests a significant impact that may have involved excessive speed, sudden braking, or an evasive maneuver that didn’t work in time. Investigators will likely review data from each truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) to determine speed, braking, and steering inputs leading up to the crash.
Were There Mechanical Issues?
With commercial trucks, mechanical failures like brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering issues can contribute to severe crashes. If either truck experienced a mechanical failure before the collision, it could explain why the vehicles lost control and overturned. Investigators will examine maintenance records and inspect both vehicles to rule out mechanical defects.
What Evidence Should Be Examined?
To understand what happened, investigators should look at multiple sources of evidence. The ECM data from both trucks can reveal actions taken by the drivers before the collision. Surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras may also provide further insight into how the trucks collided. Additionally, checking driver logs for signs of fatigue, reviewing phone records for possible distractions, and inspecting maintenance history will likely be important.
The Importance of a Full Investigation
For those affected by this crash, understanding exactly what happened is critical. Reviewing vehicle data, witness statements, and road conditions will be key in determining how and why this crash occurred. In my experience, incidents like this involve factors that aren’t immediately obvious following the accident.