On Tuesday evening, emergency crews responded to a serious crash on I-95 near the 60-mile marker in Colleton County, South Carolina. A semi-truck reportedly left the roadway and struck several trees in the median just after 5:00 p.m. The collision caused major damage to the cab and left the driver critically injured. According to first responders, the load in the trailer shifted forward during the crash, crushing the cab from behind and pinning the driver, who had been partially ejected through the windshield.
Crashes like this one raise important questions about how cargo is secured and whether the equipment performed as expected. Malfunctioning or defective parts can make a relatively minor crash much worse.
Could a Product Defect Have Made the Crash Worse?
One aspect that stands out here is the way the cargo shifted inside the trailer. A properly secured load should remain stable, even in a crash scenario. Investigators may need to evaluate whether there was a failure in the trailer’s bulkhead or cargo restraints that allowed the load to break free and collapse the cab from the rear. If the structural components of the trailer failed under conditions they should have withstood, it could point to a manufacturing defect or maintenance issue.
What Evidence Could Help Clarify the Cause?
A close examination of the trailer’s interior, tie-down systems, and any physical signs of structural failure will be important. Investigators should also review the trailer’s design specifications to determine whether it met safety standards for hauling heavy palletized goods. Photos, damage patterns, and witness reports can help piece together the sequence of events. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may also provide data on vehicle speed and braking.
Why Careful Investigation Matters in a Case Like This
When a truck driver is critically injured and the crash appears to involve both a collision and a potential mechanical failure, it's crucial to understand whether that outcome was preventable. Mechanical issues, product design flaws, or improper cargo loading can all turn a survivable crash into a serious one. A thorough investigation will help establish whether those factors were at play and ensure accountability where appropriate.