Early Thursday morning, two tractor-trailers collided on I-65 near the Highway 52 exit between Portland and White House, Tennessee. The crash occurred at approximately 4:23 a.m., when one semi-truck pulled over to the shoulder due to a flat tire and was subsequently struck from behind by another tractor-trailer. The rear-ending semi caught fire upon impact, and the driver and her dog were pronounced dead at the scene. First responders from multiple agencies, including the Tennessee Highway Patrol, continue to investigate the cause of the collision.
When I see that a semi-truck driver struck a stopped vehicle on the shoulder, I want to understand whether a mechanical defect or equipment failure played a role in the crash.
Could a Vehicle Defect Have Contributed to the Crash?
Although fatigue and inattention are common causes of rear-end collisions, the possibility of product failure must also be considered, especially in a crash like this. Investigators should examine whether the rear-ending truck experienced brake failure, steering system issues, or loss of vehicle control due to a mechanical problem. Post-collision inspection of the braking system and tire integrity could help determine whether the truck was physically capable of stopping in time or veering out of the way.
What Evidence Should Be Examined?
To fully understand what caused this crash, investigators will need to examine the semi-truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) for pre-impact data such as speed, brake application, and throttle use. The truck’s maintenance records should also be reviewed to identify whether known mechanical issues had gone unaddressed. Physical inspection of the braking system, tires, and steering components may reveal signs of failure. Additionally, dash cam footage could offer insight into how the driver responded in the moments leading up to the crash.
Why a Thorough Investigation Matters
When a commercial vehicle strikes another at highway speeds with no evidence of avoidance, questions about equipment performance and product safety naturally arise. A detailed investigation that includes mechanical inspections and a review of maintenance records is essential to identifying whether a defect or failure contributed to the collision.