A fatal crash involving a semi-truck and a motorcycle took place Monday afternoon just outside Coffeyville, Kansas. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2012 Freightliner semi was heading southbound on County Road 4300 when it reportedly attempted to make a left turn into a driveway. During the turn, it allegedly collided with a northbound 1998 Honda motorcycle. The motorcyclist, 22-year-old Wyatt T. Johnson of Coffeyville, was transported to Coffeyville Regional Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. The truck driver was uninjured. The crash remains under investigation.
When a semi-truck and a motorcycle collide during a left-hand turn, the consequences are often severe. Questions need to be answered about whether the turn was made safely.
Was the Left Turn Performed Safely?
Investigators will need to determine whether the semi-truck driver had enough time and distance to safely execute the left turn. If the driver failed to yield or misjudged the motorcyclist’s speed and distance, it may point to driver error. Left turns across traffic are especially risky for large commercial vehicles due to their slower acceleration and limited visibility, and trucking companies are expected to ensure their drivers are trained to account for these risks.
What Evidence Should Be Examined?
To understand what happened, investigators should gather surveillance footage, ECM data from the semi, and measurements from the crash scene. Skid marks, vehicle positioning, and witness statements will be important in evaluating timing and right-of-way. A review of the truck driver’s hours-of-service log may also shed light on whether fatigue was a factor.
Why a Full Investigation Is So Important
Whenever a crash leads to a fatality, it's essential to get a complete picture of what caused it. In my experience, seemingly simple collisions can involve complex factors like delayed reaction times, insufficient driver training, or inattention. A detailed investigation helps ensure that all relevant questions are answered and that everyone affected by the crash receives clear answers on what happened and why.