A crash on I-29 in Sioux Falls claimed the life of a 59-year-old man after a semi-truck trailer tipped over and crushed his vehicle. The incident occurred shortly after 11:30 a.m. on June 17 near mile marker 79, in a construction zone along the northbound lanes. According to the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the semi, operated by a 57-year-old driver from Iowa, was pulling two trailers when one of them reportedly struck a concrete barrier, flipped, and landed on a nearby Lexus sedan. The driver of the Lexus was pronounced dead at the scene, while the truck driver was uninjured.
When I read about a crash like this, I immediately think about the safety procedures that should be in place when large trucks travel through construction zones. There are likely several factors that investigators will need to examine to determine what caused the initial collision with the barrier.
Was the Trailer Operating Safely in the Work Zone?
Driving a semi-truck through a narrow or confined space like a construction zone requires heightened awareness and caution. Investigators will likely look at whether the driver maintained proper lane control and whether speed was appropriate for the conditions. Another critical question is whether the double-trailer configuration was suitable for that stretch of road. Large trucks can become unstable if not properly loaded or if the trailer configuration isn’t suited to tight maneuvers.
Could Mechanical Issues Have Played a Role?
The stability of a trailer, especially in a double-trailer setup, depends on properly functioning brakes, suspension, and load distribution. If something like a hitch malfunction, suspension issue, or improperly secured cargo caused the trailer to swing or tip after grazing the barrier, investigators need to determine whether those problems stemmed from inadequate maintenance or a manufacturing defect. Reviewing inspection records and maintenance logs will be essential to rule out negligence in upkeep.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To fully understand what caused the trailer to strike the barrier, investigators should examine the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) for data on speed, braking, and steering leading up to the crash. Dashcam footage, if available, and traffic camera recordings could help clarify how the trailer came into contact with the concrete barrier.
Why a Thorough Investigation Matters
A fatal crash like this raises serious concerns about how commercial trucks are operated and maintained. A complete investigation can uncover contributing factors and help ensure accountability is assigned where necessary. For those of us who regularly handle commercial vehicle crash cases, we know that a single misstep, whether by the driver, their employer, or a maintenance provider, can lead to serious consequences.