A semi-truck driver was killed Sunday evening after another commercial vehicle allegedly made an illegal maneuver on I-70 near Crescent Junction. According to authorities, the crash happened just after 8 p.m. when the driver of a 2024 Freightliner, hauling blueberries, exited at a scenic overlook and reportedly attempted to rejoin the highway by cutting across the gore area, a restricted part of the roadway between the highway and the off-ramp. While reentering eastbound I-70, the truck was rear-ended by a 2015 Freightliner. The driver of that 2015 Freightliner was killed in the collision.
I’ve seen how just one improper decision on the road can have fatal consequences. When large commercial vehicles make sudden or illegal moves, the margin for error disappears fast.
Why Risky Maneuvers Need Scrutiny
The decision to cut across the gore area is particularly concerning. That section of roadway is clearly marked as off-limits for a reason: it’s not designed for vehicle travel, let alone for semi-trucks pulling full trailers. Investigators will need to determine why the driver chose to reenter the highway in this manner rather than using a designated on-ramp. If this was a shortcut intended to save time, it may reflect a lapse in judgment or a disregard for safety protocols.
Could Fatigue or Inattention Have Played a Role?
Investigators may want to consider whether fatigue, distraction, or pressure to meet delivery schedules contributed to the 2024 Freightliner driver’s decision to reenter the highway through a restricted gore area. In my experience, these types of prohibited maneuvers often stem from poor judgment influenced by stress or inattention.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To fully understand how and why this crash occurred, investigators should review any available dash camera footage from both vehicles, which could help clarify how the illegal maneuver unfolded. They should also analyze data from the Engine Control Modules (ECMs), including speed, braking, and throttle input in the moments leading up to the collision.
Finally, the driving history and logbooks of the 2024 Freightliner operator should be evaluated to determine whether they were in violation of hours-of-service regulations or operating under fatigue.
Why Thorough Investigation Is Critical
A crash like this raises important questions about whether commercial drivers are following basic safety protocols. When a maneuver directly contradicts roadway markings and leads to a fatal accident, it’s essential to investigate every contributing factor. A full investigation will be crucial in understanding exactly why this crash happened.