Greene County, TN — January 4, 2025, One person was injured following an 18-wheeler accident that occurred at around 1:15 P.M. on Highway 340.

An investigation is underway following an 18-wheeler accident that sent one person to the hospital during the afternoon hours of January 4th. According to official reports, an 18-wheeler tanker hauling chocolate suffered a rollover accident on Highway 340 in the southbound lanes in Greene County.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that the driver had sustained critical injuries and transported them to the hospital for treatment via helicopter. At this time it remains unknown what causing the tractor-trailer to overturn, as well as the identity and status of the driver, though more details may be released by authorities in the future.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I hear about a crash like this involving an 18-wheeler, it’s clear that uncovering the cause requires a detailed and thorough investigation. To ensure all relevant factors are addressed, it’s essential to ask three key questions: Did the authorities conduct a thorough investigation? Has anyone considered the possibility of a vehicle defect? And has all the electronic data related to the crash been collected?

The first question involves the scope of the authorities’ investigation. Rollovers involving tanker trucks can occur for many reasons, such as shifting cargo, excessive speed, or hazardous road conditions. In this case, investigators should evaluate whether the load of chocolate was properly secured and distributed within the tanker. Improper weight distribution can make a vehicle more prone to instability. Additionally, factors like the design and condition of the roadway, including curves, slopes, and debris, should be examined. Witness accounts and any available footage from traffic or surveillance cameras may also provide valuable context about what led to the rollover.

The second question considers whether a vehicle defect could have contributed to the crash. Tanker trucks are complex machines that rely on numerous systems, such as brakes, steering, suspension, and stability controls, to operate safely. Failures in any of these systems could play a role in a rollover. Similarly, tire blowouts or problems with the tanker itself could worsen the risk of an accident. Investigating these possibilities requires a thorough forensic examination of the truck and its maintenance history. Preserving the vehicle for inspection is crucial to identify potential mechanical or design flaws.

The third question focuses on whether all the electronic data from the vehicle has been collected. Most modern 18-wheelers are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) that store critical information about the vehicle’s performance. This includes data on speed, braking, and steering inputs leading up to the crash. Additionally, the ECM can provide insight into the driver’s activity, including how long the truck had been in operation, which may help determine whether fatigue or other factors were involved. Collecting and preserving this data promptly is essential, as it may be lost or overwritten if not secured quickly.

By addressing these three questions, investigators can work toward a complete understanding of the crash and identify any factors that may have contributed. For the injured driver and others impacted, finding these answers is an important step in determining accountability and ensuring that similar incidents can be prevented in the future. It’s vital to leave no stone unturned when seeking the truth.