A crash on Highway 200 near Perma, Montana, Wednesday afternoon left one person dead and another injured. According to the Montana Highway Patrol, the collision occurred when a Ford Focus traveling westbound collided with a Kenworth semi-truck making a left turn onto Secondary Highway 382.
The Ford Focus hit the semi head-on while the truck was in the westbound lane. The 67-year-old driver of the Ford was taken to St. Patrick’s Hospital with injuries, while the passenger, a 67-year-old woman, was transported to Clark Valley Hospital but later died. The semi-truck driver was uninjured. Troopers do not currently suspect speed, drugs, or alcohol played a role in the crash, and all parties involved were wearing seatbelts.
When I read about a crash like this, I think about the questions investigators need to answer to determine whether the semi-truck’s turn was safe and if anything could have been done differently.
Did the Semi-Truck Make an Allegedly Unsafe Turn?
One key question is whether the truck driver’s decision to turn left was safe given the traffic conditions. Did the driver have enough time to complete the turn, or was it a miscalculation? Investigators should examine whether visibility was clear and whether the driver was distracted.
Left turns are especially tricky for large vehicles like semi-trucks because of their size and turning radius. A turn that blocks oncoming traffic, even momentarily, can have devastating consequences.
Were There Mechanical Issues?
Another factor to consider is whether the Kenworth truck had any mechanical issues that affected the driver’s ability to safely execute the turn. Investigators should review the truck’s maintenance records to ensure that the brakes, steering, and other critical systems were functioning properly.
What Evidence Should Be Collected?
To get a full picture of what happened, investigators will need to collect key evidence. The truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) could provide data about speed, braking, and steering leading up to the collision.
Traffic camera footage, if available, might show whether the truck had enough time to complete the turn. Witness statements from other drivers on the road could also provide critical perspectives.
Why a Thorough Investigation Matters
This crash resulted in a loss of life and left another person injured, so it’s important that the investigation is detailed and thorough. In my experience, getting to the bottom of these questions is the only way to ensure accountability and provide clarity for those affected by this accident.