A crash on the 91 Freeway resulted in the deaths of three people after a semi-truck collided with a disabled pickup truck in the eastbound lanes near Valley View Street. Reports indicate that the pickup truck was involved in a single-vehicle crash before it was struck by the big rig. Three adults in the pickup truck were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the big rig was uninjured.
With a crash like this, I have many questions about how the truck driver didn’t notice the disabled vehicle. There are a lot of factors that need to be considered to understand why this accident happened.
Was the Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
One important question I have is whether the semi-truck driver was fully alert at the time of the crash. Long-haul drivers often work grueling hours, making fatigue a serious concern. Given that this crash happened at 4 a.m., it should be considered a possibility. Investigators may want to examine the driver’s work logs, cell phone records, and available dashcam footage to determine if distraction or exhaustion played a role.
Did the Truck Adjust Its Speed for Road Conditions?
With reports of wet road conditions, investigators should also consider whether the truck driver reduced their speed accordingly. Driving too fast for the conditions can make it harder to stop in time to avoid hazards, especially for large commercial vehicles. Reviewing ECM data from the semi-truck could help determine whether speed was a factor.
Were Mechanical Failures a Factor?
Another key issue is whether the semi-truck experienced any mechanical failures that prevented the driver from stopping in time. Investigators should examine brake functionality, tire condition, and overall maintenance records to rule out any preventable mechanical defects.
Why These Questions Matter
Crashes like this raise important questions about whether truck drivers are operating safely and making necessary adjustments for road conditions. In my experience, a full investigation is the only way to uncover all the factors that contributed to the collision and provide answers for those affected.