Saybrook Township, OH — December 18, 2024, Brenda Hawes was killed in a truck accident at about 8 a.m. on State Route 45.

Authorities said a 2105 Chevrolet Equinox was driving south on State Route 45 when it crashed head-on with a Peterbilt garbage truck.

The Chevrolet driver, Brenda Hawes, 52, died at the scene of the crash, according to authorities.

The garbage truck driver was not injured, authorities said.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash at this time.

The accident is still under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I hear about an accident like this one, the first thing that comes to mind is how essential it is to determine exactly what caused this head-on collision. While many people may immediately assume one driver is to blame, crashes like these are rarely so straightforward. There are numerous factors to consider, each of which requires careful investigation to uncover the truth.

For instance, in a head-on collision, one of the most pressing questions is: Why did one vehicle end up in the other’s lane? Could it have been due to mechanical failure in either vehicle? Or perhaps there were road hazards, poor weather, or visibility issues? Without answers to these questions, assigning responsibility is premature.

In a case like this, the investigation should delve into evidence beyond the crash scene. Authorities should look at the garbage truck’s engine control module (ECM) data to determine if the truck was traveling within the lane, its speed, and whether any evasive actions were taken. Similarly, dashcam footage, if available, could provide crucial insight into what led up to the crash. Additionally, the deceased driver’s vehicle should be thoroughly inspected to rule out mechanical failures or other issues that might have caused it to drift into oncoming traffic.

Another critical avenue to explore is the road itself. Were there any design flaws, like inadequate signage or a lack of shoulder space? Was there anything about the environment, such as glare from the morning sun, that could have impaired either driver’s ability to see clearly? These environmental factors can play a pivotal role in understanding the crash’s circumstances.

Finally, we must consider the garbage truck driver’s training and state at the time of the crash. Was the driver adequately trained to handle emergency situations? Was the driver fatigued or otherwise impaired? Answers to these questions can sometimes reveal whether the employer has fulfilled its legal obligations to ensure its drivers are fit to safely operate large vehicles.

In short, this tragic incident raises more questions than answers. As investigators work to piece together what happened, it’s important for those affected to consider seeking an independent investigation to ensure that no stone is left unturned. A thorough analysis can provide clarity about what went wrong and hold the right parties accountable.