Authorities reported that two semi-trucks collided around noon Tuesday on Highway 75 near Webster Boulevard in Plattsmouth. The crash shut down both directions of the highway for over an hour as emergency crews responded. Dispatchers said one of the drivers was trapped inside his cab and appeared to be experiencing seizures. First responders freed the driver around 12:15 p.m. and he was airlifted from the scene for further medical treatment. The cause of the collision remains under investigation.
Crashes involving multiple semi-trucks can stem from a range of factors, including driver reaction, vehicle spacing, and mechanical performance. At this stage, it is not yet clear whether the driver’s reported medical distress occurred before or after the crash, and investigators will need to carefully review the available evidence to determine the sequence of events.
What Investigators Will Work to Determine
Investigators will begin by reconstructing how the two trucks came into contact. They will review the positions and movements of both vehicles prior to impact to understand whether one truck slowed or changed lanes unexpectedly. The investigation will also include a review of each driver’s hours-of-service compliance, dispatch history, and communication records to assess whether distraction or fatigue could have been contributing factors.
Authorities will likely examine whether the driver’s medical condition developed as a result of the collision or if it began beforehand. It’s standard practice for investigators to review a commercial driver’s medical certification and driving record to ensure all required qualifications were current.
Inspecting Equipment and Maintenance Records
Both trucks will undergo mechanical inspection to rule out failures in braking, steering, or other critical systems. Investigators will also review maintenance and inspection logs to confirm the vehicles were properly maintained and in compliance with federal safety standards. The Engine Control Module (ECM) from each truck will provide key data on speed, braking, and throttle input before impact, helping establish whether either driver attempted evasive action.
If either vehicle was hauling a heavy or unbalanced load, investigators may also consider how cargo weight or shifting could have affected stability and control at the time of the crash.
Evidence That Can Identify the Sequence of Events
In addition to ECM data, investigators will examine physical evidence such as skid marks, debris patterns, and the final positions of the trucks to reconstruct the crash. Eyewitness accounts and any available dash camera or traffic footage may further clarify how quickly the events happened and what prompted the collision.
Why a Careful Investigation Is Needed
When two semi-trucks collide, determining the chain of events requires precise reconstruction and a full review of all possible factors. It’s important that investigators avoid assumptions until evidence confirms whether medical distress, driver behavior, or mechanical issues played a role. A thorough and unbiased investigation will help provide a clear understanding of what happened and accountability where necessary.
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