A fatal crash in Gaines County on Wednesday morning claimed the life of 35-year-old Mindy Sue Moreno after a semi-truck allegedly failed to yield at an intersection. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash happened around 8:49 a.m. at the intersection of U.S. Highway 385 and County Road 124. The report notes that foggy conditions were present at the time of the collision.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this, I think about the investigative steps needed to determine whether the semi-truck driver followed proper safety precautions. Intersections can be especially dangerous when visibility is reduced, and it’s critical to understand whether the truck driver exercised appropriate caution before entering the roadway.
Was the Truck Driver Operating Safely for the Conditions?
The preliminary report states that the Kenworth semi-truck stopped at the intersection before proceeding, but it’s unclear whether the driver had adequate visibility or misjudged the distance of the oncoming Bronco. Fog can reduce reaction time, but drivers—especially those operating large commercial vehicles—have a responsibility to adjust their driving accordingly. Investigators should assess whether the truck driver’s speed, positioning, and decision-making aligned with safe driving practices given the conditions.
Types of Evidence That Should Be Collected
A full investigation should include reviewing the semi-truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data to determine its speed and braking activity before impact. Investigators should also examine whether the truck was properly maintained and whether any mechanical defects could have played a role. Additionally, dashcam footage from nearby vehicles or surveillance cameras at the intersection could provide clarity on how the crash occurred. They may even want to examine the driver’s cell phone data to see if potential distraction played a role in the accident.
Why a Thorough Investigation Is Important
With a life lost in this collision, it’s critical to ensure that all questions about the crash are answered. In my experience, accidents with large commercial vehicles often involve multiple factors that need to be carefully examined to understand what happened and ensure accountability where appropriate.