Early Thursday morning, a tractor-trailer collided with two stationary sedans on I-95 North in Prince George, Virginia. Virginia State Police say the crash happened around 4:15 a.m. One sedan was parked on the right shoulder, the other in the right lane, when the semi reportedly struck both vehicles. The drivers of the sedans were taken to the hospital with serious injuries but are expected to recover. Authorities say the crash is still under investigation, and charges are pending.
When a commercial truck strikes parked vehicles, there are serious questions that need to be answered to determine what caused the crash.
Could Driver Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
Crashes involving parked vehicles often raise concerns about whether the truck driver was alert and attentive at the time of the impact. Investigators will likely review whether the driver was fatigued, using a phone, or otherwise distracted. Logbooks, dash cameras, and nearby traffic cameras could all help clarify whether the driver took appropriate action—or had the time to do so—before hitting the sedans.
Are There Mechanical Issues That Need to Be Examined?
It's also possible that mechanical issues with the semi-truck contributed to the crash. Problems with brakes, steering, or lighting systems can significantly affect a driver’s ability to react to hazards on the road. Reviewing the truck’s maintenance history and onboard Engine Control Module (ECM) data will be important to rule out any equipment failure.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To fully understand what happened, investigators should examine the truck's ECM data, which can provide information about the vehicle’s speed, braking, and throttle usage before the crash. Dash camera footage could also show road conditions and the driver's actions. Additionally, statements from both the truck driver and witnesses, along with any surveillance video from nearby traffic cameras, may help clarify the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Why a Full Investigation Is Critical
Whenever a large truck collides with stopped vehicles, it's important to fully understand what went wrong. A detailed investigation can reveal whether the collision was caused by inattention, mechanical problems, or something else entirely.