A fatal multi-vehicle accident occurred Wednesday evening on I-75 South near the GA-92 exit in Bartow County. According to the Georgia State Patrol, the crash began when a gray Mazda 3 reportedly struck an aluminum trailer ramp lying in the roadway near mile marker 278. A blue Peterbilt semi-truck then also hit the ramp, prompting the driver to pull over to the shoulder due to a resulting fuel leak. While the semi was stopped, a black Ford Taurus SUV veered off the road and crashed into the back of its trailer. The SUV driver died at the scene. Authorities continue to investigate the sequence of events.
When a semi-truck is involved in a fatal crash, especially when it’s pulled over on the shoulder, investigators need to look closely at how and why the collision occurred.
Was the Semi Positioned Safely and Properly Lit?
Even if the truck was stopped due to roadway debris, investigators should assess whether it was pulled over as far as safely possible, had appropriate lighting or hazard signals active, and whether its placement complied with commercial vehicle safety standards.
What Types of Evidence Should Be Reviewed?
A thorough review should include ECM data from the semi-truck, photos of the trailer's rear lighting and reflective tape, and footage from any nearby traffic or dash cameras. Investigators may also want to track down where the trailer ramp originated and why it was left in the roadway in the first place.
Why a Full Investigation Is So Important
When a collision results in a death, it’s critical to understand not only the immediate cause, but also all contributing factors. That includes the truck’s positioning, the location of roadway hazards, and the actions of all drivers involved. A complete investigation helps ensure accountability is assigned appropriately and provides those affected with answers.