A woman was hospitalized after a collision between a semi-truck and a sedan on Highway 95 in Fort Mohave. The crash, which occurred around 2:45 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 95 and Lipan Boulevard, resulted in the sedan striking both a signal pole and a power pole. Fire crews had to extricate the woman from the heavily damaged vehicle before she was transported to Valley View Medical Center with unspecified injuries. The truck driver declined further medical treatment. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash.
Whenever I hear about a crash between a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle, I consider whether the truck driver was paying full attention to traffic conditions. Semi-trucks have large blind spots and require significant stopping distances, so even a moment of inattention can have severe consequences.
Was the Semi-Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
Given that the crash occurred at an intersection, investigators should consider whether the truck driver failed to see the sedan or react in time. Distraction, fatigue, or improper scanning of the roadway could have contributed to the collision. Reviewing dashcam footage, cell phone data, and any available traffic camera recordings could provide insight into whether the trucker was alert and aware of their surroundings before the impact.
Could a Mechanical Issue Have Been a Factor?
Another possibility is that a mechanical failure in the semi-truck, such as brake failure or steering issues, played a role in the crash. Investigators should inspect the truck’s braking system and tires to determine if any maintenance issues contributed to the incident. Reviewing the truck’s maintenance logs and ECM (Engine Control Module) data will help clarify whether mechanical problems impaired the truck’s ability to stop or maneuver safely.
Why Investigating These Crashes Matters
Collisions involving semi-trucks can be serious, and understanding the full scope of what happened is crucial. In my experience, these investigations often uncover details that aren’t immediately apparent but are essential in determining whether driver error, mechanical failure, or other factors played a role in the crash.