Bradenton, FL — January 25, 2025, one person was killed and another was injured in a truck accident at about 9:45 a.m. on State Road 70.

Authorities said a car was headed east on State Road 70 near the Interstate75 interchange when it apparently strayed into the wrong lane, driving into the path of an oncoming semi-truck. The truck hit the left side of the car.

The driver of the car, a 77-year-old woman, died at the scene, while the passenger, a 78-year-old man, was hospitalized with critical injuries. Their names have not been made public at this time.

The truck driver was not injured.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the Manatee County crash. The accident is still being investigated.

Commentary

When I hear about a crash where a vehicle crosses into the path of an oncoming semi-truck, the first question I ask is, "What caused the driver to leave their lane?" At first glance, people might think this crash is straightforward, but in my experience, incidents like this often involve more complexity than they appear. Determining who should be held accountable requires a thorough examination of all contributing factors.

One critical area to investigate is the condition of the car. Did the vehicle suffer a mechanical failure, such as a tire blowout or steering issue, that caused it to stray into the wrong lane? If so, the responsibility for this crash may extend to a repair shop or parts manufacturer, depending on the source of the failure.

The role of the semi-truck and its driver must also be examined. It’s important to determine whether the truck was traveling at a safe speed and whether the driver took reasonable actions to avoid the crash. Data from the truck’s engine control module (ECM), dash cameras or in-cab cameras can provide insight into the driver’s behavior and the moments leading up to the collision.

Beyond the vehicles themselves, investigators must also look at the roadway environment. Was there clear lane marking and proper signage at the interchange? Interchanges are often sites of congestion and confusion, which can increase the likelihood of a vehicle leaving its lane. If poor road design or inadequate maintenance played a role, those responsible for the highway’s upkeep may need to answer for their part in the crash.

Ultimately, proper accountability requires digging deeper: into the vehicles, the drivers and the environment they were in. Without a thorough investigation, we’re left with more questions than answers, and the families impacted by this crash deserve as many answers as possible.