Authorities reported that one person was killed and another seriously injured Monday afternoon after a crash involving a tractor-trailer and a passenger car on Interstate 55 near Hazlehurst. According to officials, the crash occurred around 3:01 p.m. when a northbound 2022 Mack tractor-trailer allegedly struck a 2009 Nissan Altima traveling in the same direction. The Altima’s passenger, identified as 18-year-old Francesca Doss of Fayette, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, 20-year-old X’Zavion Howard of Greenwood, was airlifted to a hospital in Jackson with serious injuries. The tractor-trailer driver was not injured. The incident remains under investigation.
Highway collisions involving commercial trucks frequently lead to catastrophic results due to the weight and force of these vehicles. Understanding what caused the tractor-trailer to collide with a car traveling the same direction will be central to determining why it happened at all.
Factors Investigators May Evaluate
Investigators will likely focus on whether the tractor-trailer driver maintained a safe following distance and whether there were any signs of distraction or fatigue. Even at moderate speeds, a fully loaded truck requires significantly more space to stop compared to smaller vehicles. Reviewing the driver’s hours-of-service records, electronic logging device (ELD) data, and cell phone usage will help determine if fatigue or inattention contributed to the collision.
Authorities will also analyze the timing of braking and the traffic flow leading up to impact. If the truck driver failed to adjust to slowing traffic or lane changes, it could indicate a lapse in attention or improper speed management.
Condition and Performance of the Tractor-Trailer
The mechanical condition of the tractor-trailer will be an important part of the investigation. Faulty or poorly maintained braking systems can significantly reduce stopping ability and increase the severity of collisions. Inspectors will review the vehicle’s maintenance logs, brake adjustments, and tire condition to verify that all systems were functioning properly before the crash.
Evidence That Can Help Determine the Sequence of Events
The truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) will provide crucial data, including the vehicle’s speed, throttle position, and braking activity immediately before impact. Investigators will also examine physical evidence from the scene such as skid marks, impact points, and final vehicle positions to reconstruct the sequence of events. Additional information from dashcams, traffic cameras, or eyewitnesses may help clarify whether the truck attempted to slow or steer away prior to contact.
Why Investigations Like This Are Essential
When a tractor-trailer allegedly hits another vehicle at highway speeds, the consequences are often severe, and determining what caused the loss of control or delayed reaction is critical. Investigators must evaluate both driver behavior and vehicle performance to identify any contributing factors. A comprehensive investigation will provide answers about what happened and ensure accountability is assigned where appropriate.