A head-on collision between a semi-truck and a FedEx truck on the Jasper-Barton County line left both drivers dead Friday morning. According to investigators, the crash occurred just before 10:30 a.m., and both trucks caught fire upon impact. Authorities are still working to determine what caused the collision.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this involving two commercial vehicles, I think about what led to the vehicles crossing into each other's path. Head-on collisions involving large trucks are unusual, so it's critical to examine whether driver error, mechanical failure, or road conditions contributed to the crash.
Did Fatigue or Distraction Play a Role?
Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, which slows reaction times and increases the likelihood of errors. Distraction is another key concern, as even a momentary lapse in attention can be catastrophic when operating a large commercial vehicle. Investigators should review driver logs, in-cab camera footage, and cell phone records to determine if fatigue or distraction contributed to the crash.
Was a Mechanical Issue a Factor?
When large trucks lose control or drift into oncoming traffic, mechanical failure is always a possibility. Investigators should inspect the steering, braking systems, and tire conditions of both vehicles to determine whether a failure caused either driver to lose control. The Engine Control Module (ECM) data from the semi-truck could provide insight into braking and steering inputs in the moments leading up to the collision.
Why These Questions Matter
Crashes involving commercial vehicles require thorough investigations to determine liability and whether safety violations contributed to the collision. Understanding whether driver fatigue, distraction, or mechanical failure played a role is essential. In my experience, these investigations often reveal details that aren’t immediately apparent but are crucial in understanding the full scope of the crash.