A crash involving a tractor-trailer and a Ford Expedition shut down Route 13 in Exmore on Friday morning. According to Virginia State Police, the driver of the Western Star Conventional tractor-trailer failed to slow down in time and rear-ended the Ford Expedition. The driver of the Expedition suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities charged the truck driver with following too closely.
Whenever I hear about a rear-end crash involving a semi-truck, I think about whether the driver was distracted or driving too fast for conditions. Semi-trucks require significantly more stopping distance than passenger vehicles, and when they don’t have enough space, these crashes become unavoidable.
Was the Semi-Truck Driver Distracted?
A key question in this case is whether distraction played a role. Rear-end collisions involving large trucks often occur when the driver isn’t fully focused on the road ahead. Investigators should review cell phone records, in-cab camera footage, and witness statements to determine if the truck driver was using a phone, adjusting equipment, or otherwise not paying attention in the moments leading up to the crash.
Did the Driver Fail to Adjust Speed for Conditions?
Even when a vehicle ahead slows down unexpectedly, a professional truck driver should have enough space to react safely. Investigators should determine whether the semi-truck was traveling too fast for conditions or if the driver was following the Ford Expedition too closely. Reviewing Engine Control Module (ECM) data can reveal the truck’s speed and braking patterns leading up to the crash, helping to clarify whether the driver attempted to slow down in time.
Why It’s Essential to Ask These Questions
Rear-end crashes involving semi-trucks are often severe due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Determining whether distraction, speeding, or mechanical issues contributed to this crash is critical. In my experience, these investigations often uncover factors that aren’t immediately apparent but are crucial in understanding the full scope of the incident.