On Tuesday night, emergency crews responded to a serious crash at the intersection of North Carolina Highway 87 and Sandy Hill Road in the Gray’s Creek area of Cumberland County. The collision occurred shortly after 10 p.m. when a tractor-trailer hauling turkeys allegedly struck a pickup truck that was turning left onto Highway 87. Troopers say both vehicles reportedly had red lights at the time of the crash. The driver of the pickup was seriously injured, while the semi-truck driver and the truck’s poultry cargo were reportedly unharmed.
In past cases I’ve handled, intersections involving commercial trucks often come down to timing, visibility, and whether drivers were paying close enough attention as traffic patterns changed.
Could Driver Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
While details about the semi-truck driver’s actions remain limited, it’s common for investigators to consider whether distraction or fatigue could have contributed, especially during late-night hours when alertness tends to decrease. If the truck driver failed to notice the traffic signal or misjudged the pickup’s movement, it could suggest that fatigue or inattention played a part. Reviewing driver logs, dispatch records, and the number of hours worked leading up to the crash will be important for identifying any violations of federal hours-of-service regulations.
Was the Semi-Truck in Safe Mechanical Condition?
Even when driver behavior is a concern, it's still essential to confirm the truck itself was operating properly. Investigators will likely examine whether the brakes, lights, and signal systems on the semi were all functioning correctly. A mechanical failure, especially in a loaded vehicle, can drastically reduce a driver’s ability to react in time. The weight of a full trailer, particularly one transporting live animals, makes timely braking even more critical.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
Investigators will need to collect traffic signal timing data, review video surveillance from nearby intersections, and inspect both vehicles for mechanical integrity. Electronic data from the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) may show the vehicle’s speed and brake usage before the crash. Witness statements and dash cam footage could also help clarify who entered the intersection first and whether either driver ran the red light.
How a Thorough Investigation Can Provide Answers
When serious injuries result from a crash involving a commercial truck, it’s important to determine exactly how the events unfolded and what role the semi-truck’s operation may have played. Investigating mechanical condition, driver alertness, and traffic signal data can help provide clarity and ensure accountability where appropriate.