Two people were hospitalized Saturday morning following a crash involving two semi-trucks on Interstate 64 in Kanawha County, West Virginia.
According to officials, the collision occurred just before 6 a.m. near mile marker 45.5, shortly past the Cross Lanes area. Both directions of the interstate were closed for a time as emergency crews responded. One of the truck cabs caught fire following the crash. Nitro Fire Department personnel confirmed that two individuals were transported to the hospital, though the extent of their injuries has not been released. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash.
Whenever I see a crash involving two commercial trucks, I immediately have questions about the condition of both trucks and the actions of the drivers. In my experience, determining what happened in crashes like this requires a careful investigation of both driver behavior and vehicle performance.
Could Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
At 6 a.m., commercial drivers may be nearing the end of an overnight haul or just beginning a new shift. One of the first things investigators should look into is whether either truck driver was operating while fatigued or distracted. Driver logs, rest schedules, and any in-cab video systems should be reviewed to evaluate alertness and reaction time leading up to the crash.
Could a Mechanical Failure Have Contributed to the Collision?
Another critical factor in collisions involving semi-trucks is the mechanical condition of the vehicles. Investigators should inspect both trucks’ braking systems, tires, and steering mechanisms to determine whether either experienced a failure that may have contributed to the crash.
The weight of the loads being hauled and how they were secured could also impact the outcome. A shifting or improperly balanced load can affect stopping distance and stability, especially if a sudden maneuver was attempted.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To fully understand what led to the crash, investigators should review the Engine Control Module (ECM) data from both trucks. This information can reveal speed, braking patterns, and throttle inputs in the seconds before the collision. In addition, scene documentation—such as skid marks, vehicle positions, and damage patterns—can help reconstruct the sequence of events.
If dash cam or traffic camera footage is available, it may offer additional information on the vehicles’ movements.
Why a Full Investigation Is Necessary
Crashes between two commercial trucks are complex and raise several questions. From my experience with truck accident cases, the only way to uncover what caused the crash is through a detailed, methodical investigation. That process is critical to providing answers for those involved and ensuring accountability wherever it's due.