A pedestrian was struck and killed by a UPS truck in Henderson County, North Carolina, on the night of March 4. According to North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the truck, driven by a 24-year-old UPS employee, was traveling east on Dana Road when it hit a man walking in the roadway. The driver allegedly left the scene, later returning with family members in a personal vehicle. He now faces a felony hit-and-run charge.
Whenever I hear about a fatal collision involving a commercial vehicle, I think about the factors that need to be investigated to determine how and why it happened. Pedestrian crashes involving delivery trucks usually involve serious injuries or fatalities, so they require extra scrutiny.
Was the Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
Delivery drivers operate on tight schedules, often making frequent stops and working long hours. Investigators should review the driver’s work records to determine if fatigue played a role. Additionally, they should examine whether any distractions—such as GPS, phone use, or package scanning devices—may have contributed to the collision.
Was the Truck’s Visibility Equipment Functioning Properly?
Commercial vehicles like UPS trucks have large blind spots, which can make it difficult to spot pedestrians. Investigators should determine whether the truck’s headlights, mirrors, and other visibility-enhancing equipment were working properly. Reviewing dashcam footage, if available, could also help clarify whether the driver used the onboard visibility equipment to check for pedestrians or other hazards.
Why a Thorough Investigation Matters in This Type of Crash
Pedestrian crashes involving delivery trucks highlight the need for accountability in commercial vehicle operations. In my experience, these investigations often reveal critical details about driver behavior, vehicle conditions, and company policies that may not be immediately apparent. Answering these questions is crucial for providing answers to those affected by this crash.