A crash involving a tractor-trailer and a smaller truck on I-95 southbound near Exit 19 left at least one person with major injuries, according to local officials. Emergency crews found both vehicles off the highway and down an embankment, with a smaller truck lodged underneath a semi. Firefighters used rope systems to bring the injured person to safety due to the steep terrain. Connecticut State Police are investigating the cause of the crash.
When a semi-truck ends up off-road and another vehicle is pinned underneath, there are usually several layers to what went wrong. In my experience, scenes like this often involve a combination of factors—some obvious, some hidden—that only a thorough investigation can bring to light.
Was the Semi-Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
One of the first things investigators should consider is whether the semi-truck driver was distracted or fatigued. Failing to maintain lane position, missing changes in traffic flow, or reacting too late to surrounding vehicles can all stem from inattention or drowsiness. Reviewing the driver's hours-of-service logs, cell phone records, and cab-facing dash cam footage could shed light on whether the driver was mentally and physically alert at the time of the crash.
Could Mechanical Failure Have Played a Role?
Mechanical issues such as faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or steering problems can all affect a truck’s ability to stay in control. In crashes where a semi runs off the road or fails to slow down, inspecting the truck’s braking system, tire tread, and maintenance history is critical. Sometimes what looks like driver error is actually the result of a preventable equipment failure.
What Evidence Should Investigators Examine?
To understand the full picture, investigators should collect and review the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) data, which can provide insights into speed, braking, and throttle input leading up to the crash. Eyewitness statements and surveillance footage from nearby traffic or businesses may also help reconstruct what happened. Vehicle inspection reports, service records, and photographs of the damage at the scene can provide additional context that may not be immediately apparent.
Why a Full Investigation Is Essential
Crashes involving semi-trucks often look straightforward at first glance, but there’s almost always more going on beneath the surface. In my experience with truck accident cases, I’ve found that a thorough investigation often uncovers factors—like driver fatigue, poor maintenance, or overlooked warning signs—that are critical to understanding why the crash happened. Getting to the bottom of these incidents matters not just for accountability, but also for providing answers to those who are affected.