Authorities in Bullitt County are investigating a chain of collisions Monday night that ended with a semi-truck striking a bridge on South Preston Highway. According to reports, the semi allegedly hit two separate vehicles before continuing north and reportedly crashing into the bridge near Collings Hill Road around 9:42 p.m. The truck driver and several others involved were taken to area hospitals with injuries, all expected to survive. The driver was later charged with leaving the scene of an accident and failure to render aid.
When I hear about a semi-truck reportedly hitting multiple vehicles and a bridge in quick succession, I immediately think about what could have gone wrong in terms of driver behavior or mechanical failure.
Could Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
Operating a semi-truck demands constant attention, and even a momentary lapse in focus can have serious consequences. If the truck driver in this case failed to notice traffic or obstacles ahead, it may raise questions about whether fatigue, distraction, or another impairment contributed to the series of crashes. Investigators will likely review the driver’s hours of service, rest schedule, and potential use of mobile devices to determine if federal trucking safety regulations were violated.
Mechanical Issues Could Also Be a Factor
Another possibility that needs to be examined is whether the truck experienced a mechanical failure, such as brake failure or steering problems, that prevented the driver from stopping in time or controlling the vehicle. Commercial trucks are required by law to undergo regular inspections and maintenance, but in practice, some companies cut corners. Investigators should inspect maintenance logs and vehicle systems to rule out defective parts or neglected repairs.
What Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
To get a clear picture of what happened, authorities should obtain and analyze the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data, which could show speed, braking, and steering input leading up to each impact. Additionally, dashcam footage, witness statements, and surveillance footage from the area could help clarify the sequence of events. The driver’s logbooks, dispatch records, and cell phone data may also provide insight into whether distraction, fatigue, or improper training played a role.
Why Getting to the Bottom of It Matters
Crashes involving large trucks can result in serious injuries, and it's not enough to focus solely on the driver’s actions at the moment of impact. A thorough investigation can reveal whether deeper issues, like poor vehicle maintenance or unsafe scheduling practices, contributed to the crash.