Authorities are searching for an 18-wheeler involved in a fatal hit-and-run that occurred early Wednesday morning on Interstate 35 at South Alamo. Police say a man was found lying in the main lanes of I-35 after being struck and killed by a semi-truck that did not stop at the scene. Investigators recovered the truck’s license plate, which may help locate the driver.
Whenever I hear about a crash like this involving a commercial truck, I think about the factors that could have contributed to the driver not seeing the pedestrian.
Was the Truck Properly Equipped for Nighttime Visibility?
One of the most important questions in this case is whether the truck’s lights were functioning properly. Commercial trucks are required to have working headlights, brake lights, and side marker lights to improve visibility, especially in low-light conditions. If any of these were malfunctioning, it could have made it more difficult for the driver to notice the pedestrian.
Additionally, when authorities find the vehicle, they should examine whether the truck’s mirrors and blind spot detection systems were in working order. Modern commercial vehicles often have blind-spot monitoring technology, which can alert drivers to objects or pedestrians in their path. If this system was not operational or not used properly, it could be a contributing factor.
Could the Driver Have Been Distracted or Fatigued?
Given that this crash happened at 3:30 a.m., it’s important to investigate whether the driver was fatigued or distracted. Long-haul truckers often drive through the night, and fatigue can impair reaction time and awareness. Investigators should review logbooks and ECM data to determine how long the driver had been on the road before the crash.
Distraction is another possible factor. If the trucker was on their phone, adjusting the radio, or engaged in another task, they may not have noticed the pedestrian in time to react. Reviewing cell phone records, dashcam footage, and surveillance video could provide insight into the trucker’s level of attention before the crash.
Why It’s Important to Ask These Questions
A hit-and-run involving a commercial truck raises serious concerns about accountability. Determining whether the driver truly didn’t see the pedestrian, was distracted, or was driving without properly functioning visibility equipment is crucial. In my experience, these types of investigations often uncover important details that aren’t immediately obvious but are essential for understanding what happened and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.