Authorities have confirmed that 56-year-old Brett Wagner of Avon, Indiana, was killed in a multi-vehicle crash involving three semi-trucks and an SUV on I-74 Wednesday evening. Investigators say slowed traffic from a previous crash may have contributed, but it appears one of the semi-truck drivers allegedly failed to reduce speed, triggering a chain reaction. Wagner, who was driving the SUV rear-ended by that semi, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this—especially one involving multiple semis and stopped traffic—I think about the investigative steps that need to be taken immediately. Collisions involving multiple semi-trucks can be quite complex and often involve a lot more factors than what’s initially reported.
Could Driver Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
In rear-end crashes involving commercial trucks, driver fatigue or distraction is often a factor that must be carefully examined. Long hours on the road can dull reaction times, and something as simple as glancing at a phone or GPS system for a few seconds can lead to a serious crash. If the trucker who initiated the crash failed to notice stopped traffic in time, investigators will need to determine if that lapse was due to distraction, drowsiness, or some other form of inattention.
Were Mechanical Failures a Factor?
Another critical area to examine is the mechanical condition of the semi-truck. Braking systems, tire wear, and overall maintenance can dramatically affect a truck’s ability to stop in time. If the vehicle had faulty brakes or was overdue for service, that could have contributed to the failure to avoid the stopped traffic. Reviewing maintenance logs and inspecting the truck’s components will help clarify whether a mechanical failure played a part.
What Types of Evidence Should Be Collected?
To fully understand what happened, investigators will need to pull data from the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM), which can reveal the truck’s speed, braking activity, and throttle position before the crash. Dash camera footage or cell phone data may provide direct evidence of distraction or fatigue. Investigators should also gather the driver’s logbooks, maintenance records, and statements from other drivers or witnesses.
Why It’s Important to Ask Questions
In crashes where multiple commercial vehicles are involved, a surface-level review isn’t enough. A full investigation helps identify whether other factors—like fatigue, distraction, or mechanical issues—played a role. In my experience, thoroughly investigating these types of accidents often reveals details that would otherwise go unnoticed, providing answers to those who have been affected by them.