A crash on US 60 in Meade County left one person dead and two others with life-threatening injuries on August 21. According to the Kentucky State Police, the collision happened at around 10:32 a.m. when an eastbound semi-truck allegedly crossed the center line and collided with a Ford F-150. A passenger in the pickup, 80-year-old Jerry Ricketts, was pronounced dead at the scene. Both the semi-truck driver and the pickup driver were transported to UofL Hospital in critical condition. The investigation is ongoing.
When I read about a crash where a semi allegedly crosses into oncoming traffic, I immediately think about what might have caused such a serious departure from the lane. Investigators will need to determine if this was the result of fatigue, distraction, or a possible vehicle issue.
Was Fatigue or Distraction Involved?
Semi-truck drivers often spend long stretches on the road, and fatigue is a well-known hazard that can lead to devastating crashes. Investigators may review the driver’s hours-of-service records and recent rest history to see if he was driving beyond federal limits. Cell phone records, GPS logs, or in-cab camera footage could also show whether the driver was distracted just before the truck veered across the center line. Witness statements may provide further insight into how the semi was moving in the moments before the collision.
Could a Mechanical Problem Have Caused the Truck to Drift?
Crossing the center line could also result from a sudden loss of control due to mechanical failure. Investigators should inspect the truck’s steering, brakes, and tires for evidence of malfunction. A blowout, steering failure, or braking problem could all explain why the driver left his lane. Maintenance records and inspection reports will be important in determining whether the truck was safe to be on the road.
What Evidence Should Investigators Review?
The Engine Control Module (ECM) may provide crucial data about speed, throttle, and braking inputs leading up to the crash. Physical scene evidence, such as skid marks, gouge patterns, and debris fields, will help reconstruct the truck’s path. Video from nearby traffic cameras or dashcams could also confirm whether the truck drifted gradually or made a sudden movement, which can point to either driver impairment or a mechanical failure.
Why a Full Investigation Is Needed
When a crash leaves multiple people dead and injured, the cause has to be fully understood. A detailed investigation into driver condition, vehicle integrity, and the physical evidence will be essential to establishing accountability and providing answers to the families affected.
call us 
Email Us 
Text us 
AI-SEARCH