Authorities in San Antonio are investigating a crash involving two semi-trucks and an SUV that left two people critically injured Thursday morning.
The incident occurred around 11:45 a.m. on Interstate 35 South near Cassin Road. According to officers at the scene, an 18-wheeler traveling southbound failed to notice stopped traffic ahead. The driver reportedly attempted to brake, but the truck allegedly veered into the median, jackknifed, and struck an SUV driven by a 75-year-old woman. She and the truck driver, a 69-year-old man, were both transported to the hospital with critical injuries. A second semi-truck was also involved but was only clipped in the collision.
Whenever I hear about crashes involving semi-trucks failing to stop for traffic, I think about how essential it is to investigate what caused the delayed reaction. In my experience, these types of crashes often come down to a mix of driver awareness and the truck’s ability to stop or maneuver in an emergency.
Could Fatigue or Distraction Have Delayed the Driver’s Reaction?
When a truck driver fails to notice stopped traffic on a major highway like I-35, investigators should immediately consider whether the driver was alert and focused on the road. Commercial drivers can experience fatigue after long hours behind the wheel or become distracted by navigation systems, in-cab controls, or phones.
Even a brief lapse in concentration is enough to prevent a driver from seeing and reacting to traffic in time. Reviewing electronic logging device (ELD) data, phone records, and in-cab video could help determine whether distraction or fatigue contributed to the crash.
Did the Truck’s Mechanical Condition Affect Its Ability to Stop?
Beyond driver behavior, another question investigators should ask is whether the semi-truck was capable of stopping in time once the driver applied the brakes. Brake wear, suspension problems, or trailer instability can all make it harder to control or stop a fully loaded truck.
A thorough inspection of the braking system and maintenance records should be conducted to determine whether the vehicle was roadworthy and whether any mechanical issues contributed to the jackknife or the loss of control.
What Evidence Should Be Examined to Understand the Crash?
To accurately reconstruct this crash, investigators will need to analyze Engine Control Module (ECM) data from the semi-truck to determine speed, braking effort, and throttle input prior to the crash. Skid marks, tire tracks through the median, and final vehicle positions will also help clarify how the truck moved through the scene. Eyewitness statements, dash cam footage, and any nearby traffic camera video could further support the timeline and show whether evasive action was attempted or possible.
Why Thorough Investigation Matters When Semis Fail to Stop for Traffic
In my experience, crashes where a semi fails to stop in time are rarely the result of a single factor. They often involve other issues like inattention, fatigue, or poorly maintained equipment. Only a thorough investigation can help answer exactly how this crash happened and why.