The driver of an 18-wheeler was killed instantly of blunt force injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene last week when struck by another 18-wheeler in the southbound lanes of Interstate 85 in Alabama.
The driver of the first 18-wheeler had stopped on the shoulder of the southbound lanes around 3:15 a.m. and was outside his rig when he was stuck by the second tractor-trailer also traveling southbound. The accident remains under investigation.
This accident happened at 3:15 a.m. and one focus of the investigation concerns the hours of service for both truck drivers. Also, questions arise whether the driver of the 18-wheeler on the shoulder had his flashers activated and triangles placed the appropriate distance behind his rig to warn motorists that he was on the shoulder.
Current rules allow truck drivers to drive 11 hours and work 14 hour days. Fatigue and falling asleep results in truck drivers drifting to the shoulder. Never stop your vehicle whether driving an 18-wheeler or a passenger vehicle on the shoulder of the roadway to prevent being struck by an approaching motorist from the rear. Activate your flashers and get to the exit.
Richard J. Arsenault, 2011
