A multi-vehicle crash involving two commercial trucks shut down eastbound I-84 near the Poverty Flats Road exit in Umatilla County, Oregon, for approximately four hours on Tuesday. According to a report from Oregon State Police, a green Peterbilt truck was towing a yellow Freightliner box truck at a slow speed with its hazard lights activated. As it traveled eastbound, a white Freightliner truck approached from behind. For unknown reasons, the Freightliner was unable to slow down in time and attempted an evasive maneuver, but ultimately collided with the Peterbilt. The driver of the white Freightliner was airlifted to St. Mary’s Hospital in Walla Walla with serious injuries. The driver of the Peterbilt was evaluated at the scene and declined transport.
When a commercial vehicle rear-ends another, it’s natural to assume the trailing driver is at fault, but in a situation like this, there are more questions that need to be answered. Was the lead truck moving slowly in an appropriate location? Were its hazard lights clearly visible and functioning properly? Did the following vehicle have a mechanical issue that prevented the truck from slowing down?
Could Mechanical Issues Have Played a Role?
One angle worth examining is whether the white Freightliner experienced a mechanical failure that contributed to the crash. Braking issues, faulty cruise control systems, or problems with onboard sensors could have delayed the driver's response or prevented effective maneuvering. Investigators will likely inspect the vehicle’s braking system, steering components, and any driver-assist technologies to determine if a malfunction prevented the truck from slowing down or avoiding the slower-moving Peterbilt. Maintenance records and the truck’s ECM data will also be key in evaluating whether the vehicle was in proper working condition at the time of the collision.
Was the Slower-Moving Truck Operating Safely?
While the Peterbilt was reportedly using hazard lights, investigators should examine whether those lights were fully functional and visible from a sufficient distance. The speed and positioning of the truck, especially while towing another vehicle, are also critical. If it was traveling too slowly in a high-speed lane or had come to an unsafe stop, that could have made it more difficult for the following vehicle to avoid a collision.
What Evidence Should Be Collected?
To get a clearer picture of what happened, both trucks’ Engine Control Modules (ECMs) should be examined to determine their speeds and braking activity prior to the crash. Investigators should also review dash cam footage and inspect the condition and functionality of the hazard lights on the Peterbilt. Statements from any witnesses and the commercial drivers themselves will be important, as will an assessment of the lead truck’s towing setup and whether it complied with commercial vehicle safety standards.
Why a Full Investigation Is Critical
When two commercial trucks collide and one driver is seriously hurt, it’s crucial that the full picture be developed through a careful investigation. Even small details, like the angle of a trailer or the timing of brake application, can make a significant difference in understanding why this accident happened.