A semi-truck crash near the intersection of State Highway 183 and State Highway 360 in Fort Worth left two people critically injured on Monday. According to emergency responders, the semi became lodged under a bridge, and crews were called to the scene shortly after noon. Fort Worth police confirmed that the crash involved a semi-truck and another vehicle, but further details are still under investigation.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this involving a semi-truck, I think about whether the driver misjudged clearance, lost control, or was traveling too fast for the roadway conditions. Semi-trucks require precise maneuvering, especially in areas with low bridges or complex highway interchanges.
Did the Driver Misjudge the Bridge Clearance?
One of the most immediate questions investigators should consider is whether the semi-truck exceeded the height restrictions for the bridge. Low-clearance bridges are well-marked, but if the trucker was unfamiliar with the area or missed signage, they may have miscalculated the truck’s clearance. Investigators should review road signage, GPS navigation data, and route planning records to determine whether the driver was aware of the height restrictions before the crash.
Did Speed or Distraction Play a Role?
If the truck became lodged under the bridge after colliding with another vehicle, investigators should examine whether the driver was traveling too fast or was distracted at the time of the crash. Reviewing cell phone records, dashcam footage, and Engine Control Module (ECM) data can help determine if distraction, fatigue, or excessive speed played a role in the collision.
Was There a Mechanical Issue?
If the truck driver lost control before impact, investigators should look into potential mechanical failures such as braking issues, steering malfunctions, or a blown tire. Reviewing maintenance records and conducting a full mechanical inspection of the semi-truck can help determine whether a failure contributed to the crash.
Why Even Ask These Questions?
Crashes involving semi-trucks and bridge collisions can be particularly severe. Understanding whether driver error, distraction, or mechanical failure played a role in this crash is crucial in piecing together what happened. In my experience, investigations like these often reveal key details that weren’t immediately obvious but are critical for accountability.