Two semi-trucks collided Tuesday afternoon near the intersection of 175th Street and Highway 81 South, sending one driver to the hospital. According to reports from Watertown Fire Rescue, one truck ended up in the ditch with heavy front-end damage, while the other came to rest across Highway 81, also significantly damaged. The South Dakota Highway Patrol is currently investigating what led to the collision.
Whenever two large commercial vehicles collide, I always want to know what factors might have caused one or both drivers to lose control. In my experience, the root cause often goes beyond just surface-level mistakes.
Was One of the Semi-Trucks Following Too Closely or Unable to Stop in Time?
It’s not uncommon for rear-end or head-on collisions involving 18-wheelers to stem from issues like following too closely, failing to maintain a lane, or not adjusting speed for the conditions. Investigators will likely examine brake marks (or the lack thereof), witness statements, and Engine Control Module (ECM) data to determine whether one of the trucks failed to stop in time or made an unsafe maneuver.
Could Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
Distraction and driver fatigue are persistent concerns in the trucking industry. Even a few seconds of inattention or nodding off behind the wheel can have devastating consequences. Investigators may look into logbooks, hours-of-service records, and cell phone data to determine whether one of the drivers was distracted or had been on the road too long without rest.
What About the Condition of the Vehicles Themselves?
Mechanical issues—like brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering problems—can contribute to major truck accidents. A full inspection of both semi-trucks should be conducted to identify any potential defects or maintenance failures that might have played a role in this crash.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To understand exactly what happened, investigators should collect ECM data from both trucks, examine crash damage patterns, interview both drivers, and gather any available dash cam or surveillance footage. These sources can offer crucial insight into the timing and sequence of events.
Why Ask These Questions?
When two semis crash, the consequences can be severe. A complete investigation will help determine what went wrong and provide answers to those affected by the accident. In my experience, these investigations often reveal critical details that are easy to miss at first glance.