A crash on State Highway 62 in Orange, Texas claimed the life of a driver Thursday morning. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the collision occurred around 9:55 a.m. when a Peterbilt semi-truck was traveling south on SH 62 and struck a Buick Enclave that pulled out from Waterwood Drive. The impact was on the driver's side of the Buick. The driver of the semi was uninjured, while the driver of the Buick was pronounced dead at the scene.
When I hear about a fatal crash involving a semi-truck and a smaller vehicle, I often have questions about the factors that might be involved. In crashes like this, even a slight miscalculation can have severe consequences when a commercial vehicle is involved.
Was the Semi Traveling at a Safe Speed for the Area?
One factor investigators will likely examine is whether the semi-truck was driving at a speed that allowed it to stop in time if a vehicle entered the roadway. Highway 62 may have a posted speed limit, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s always safe to drive at that limit—especially near intersections. The size and weight of a loaded semi mean that stopping distance is much longer, and that can become a critical issue when other vehicles are merging or crossing.
Could Mechanical Issues Have Contributed?
Another important factor is whether the truck had any mechanical problems that could have affected its ability to slow down or maneuver. Brake failures, steering issues, or worn tires can all play a role in a semi-truck’s response time. Investigators should inspect the truck’s maintenance records and onboard diagnostic systems to rule out potential defects or poor maintenance.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To fully understand what happened, investigators should examine the semi-truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data, which can reveal the truck’s speed, braking activity, and acceleration just before the crash. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses, physical skid marks on the road, and witness statements may also help clarify the sequence of events. Reviewing the truck’s maintenance history and driver’s logbook could also identify any prior mechanical issues or signs of driver fatigue.
Why Ask These Questions?
Crashes involving 18-wheelers are rarely straightforward. In my experience, thorough investigations frequently uncover overlooked details—such as speed or mechanical issues—that are essential to understanding why the crash happened in the first place. They also help provide answers to those affected by the accident.