According to a recent Indiana State Police bulletin released on November 30, 2021, a 2013 Kenworth traveling southbound on I-65 driven by Walter Sutton, 50 of Lonedell, MO, for an unknown reason, left the roadway, went through the median and concrete barriers near the 179-mile marker. The 2013 Kenworth hit a 2017 Freightliner, traveling northbound on I-65, head on. Unfortunately, the driver of the 2017 Freightliner was pronounced dead at the scene. The name of the deceased was not released in the bulletin, pending notification of the family. The crash is still under investigation by the Indiana State Police and the Tippecanoe County Crash Reconstruction team.
Photo from ISP Bulletin
Reasons Head-On Truck Crashes Occur
We don’t yet know why the 2013 Kenworth left the road and crossed the median striking the other semi but having represented clients and their families for similar incidents over the past 35 plus years there are several possible reasons for incidents like this one. Head-on collisions are often the result of drivers falling asleep, health issues, distracted driving, drugs and/or alcohol or possibly mechanical issues. I am hired every year to handle these types of cases for families and there is another concern that is becoming more and more prevalent. The experience level and quality of semi-drivers currently on our roads and interstates is declining. There are certainly good drivers who focus on staying alert and keeping themselves and others safe, but there certainly seems to be a growing number of bad drivers.
Could Truck Driver Shortage Have Influenced This Accident?
According to a recent October 2021 article by smart-trucking.com the United States has a current shortage of 60,000 truck drivers. There are many reasons for this shortage detailed in the article such as high turnover, long hours, unfair pay by trucking companies etc., but the real concern is that with this shortage comes the concern that big trucking companies will lower their standard for drivers they hire to drive for them simply because they are desperate to get their loads delivered across the country as quickly as they can and it takes drivers to make that happen.
Involved in a Collision with a Semi-Tractor or Trailer?
If you are involved in a crash caused by a tractor-trailer in Indiana, our knowledgeable truck accident lawyers are ready to help. A trucking accident can be devastating if you have suffered serious injuries, or if you have lost a loved one. Please call our talented Indiana truck accident lawyers at the law offices of Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC. We will help you determine the cause of the wreck and hold those responsible accountable. You can reach us online by filling out a contact form, and a representative from our office will get in touch with your shortly.
I would invite you to check out my recently published book Semitruck Wreck: A Guide for Victims and Their Families as well as my “After the Crash Podcast” videos on Youtube where I discuss in detail things that you will find helpful, especially if you’ve been in a recent crash.
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