A semi-truck and two vehicles were involved in a crash Friday morning near Visalia, shutting down a local roadway. The accident happened near Avenue 328 and Road 100. According to photos from the Tulare County Fire Department, the semi-truck, which was hauling a tractor, veered off the road into an orchard, suffering significant front-end damage. Three people were injured in the crash, including one individual who had to be extricated.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this, I think about the key questions investigators should answer to understand what led to the collision. In this incident, there isn’t a lot of information about a potential cause.
What Led to the Semi-Truck Leaving the Roadway?
One of the biggest questions I have in this case is why the semi-truck veered off the road. Investigators will need to determine whether the truck lost control or if mechanical issues played a role. Given the truck was hauling a heavy load, investigators should examine whether cargo weight distribution or trailer stability contributed to the crash.
Were There Mechanical Issues?
Semi-trucks require regular inspections to ensure brakes, steering, and suspension systems are working properly. If the truck experienced a brake failure, steering issue, or tire blowout, that could explain why it veered into the orchard. Reviewing maintenance records and ECM data will be critical in determining whether a preventable mechanical failure played a role.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
A thorough investigation should include ECM data from the semi-truck, surveillance footage if available, and witness statements to determine the events leading up to the crash. Authorities should also see if speed or other factors contributed to the accident. This could include examining the truck driver’s cell phone data to see if distraction is a potential factor.
Why Understanding the Full Picture Is Important
Collisions involving semi-trucks and multiple passenger vehicles demand a detailed investigation. Whether the issue was driver error, mechanical failure, or some other factor, uncovering the full picture is essential for accountability. In my experience, these cases often reveal critical details that aren’t immediately apparent, which is why investigators need to explore every potential cause.