A 48-year-old pedestrian was struck and killed by two semi-trucks while walking on Interstate 84 near Snowville on Thursday night. According to the Department of Public Safety, the man had spoken to an officer earlier in the evening after his vehicle broke down. The officer advised him to return to his car and wait, but instead, he walked several miles down the highway before being struck. According to reports, the first semi swerved to avoid him, but hit him with the sideview mirror. Another semi behind the first then struck the pedestrian.
Whenever I hear about crashes like this, I often have questions about how the semis didn’t see the pedestrian. While seeing someone walking along a highway is rare, headlights and other visibility equipment should help spot them before an accident can occur. In this case, I wonder what caused the pedestrian to go unseen until the last possible moment.
What Factors Should Be Investigated?
Investigators should examine whether either of the truck drivers may have been distracted or fatigued at the time of the crash. The first semi-truck driver only noticed the pedestrian at the last second, raising the question of whether they were fully attentive to the roadway ahead. Given the long hours truckers often drive, fatigue can impair reaction time and awareness, making it critical to review the drivers’ logs, schedules, and cell phone data leading up to the incident.
Examining Potential Mechanical Issues
Since the second semi-truck was reportedly unable to stop before hitting the pedestrian, investigators should determine whether the truck’s braking system was functioning properly. The Engine Control Module (ECM) can provide valuable data on speed, braking, and acceleration, helping to clarify whether mechanical issues played a role. Additionally, reviewing the trucks’ headlights and overall visibility equipment is important to assess whether they were functioning correctly and providing adequate light.
Why This Investigation Matters
Understanding how and why this crash occurred is critical, not only for accountability, but also for providing answers to those affected. In my experience, these investigations often reveal factors that aren’t immediately obvious but are crucial in understanding the full scope of the crash.