Spokane, WA — December 5, 2024, one person was killed in a truck accident at about 8:15 a.m. on Interstate 90 near Four Lakes.

Authorities said a semi-truck hauling a tanker loaded with diesel fuel overturned after the driver lost control of the vehicle on eastbound I-90.

Another semi-truck crashed when its driver tried to avoid hitting the overturned tanker, according to authorities. The crash left its trailer blocking both lanes of the highway, with its cab on the shoulder.

Authorities said the person who died in the crash is believed to be the driver of the tanker truck, but they are still working to confirm identification.

The driver of the other truck was not injured, according to authorities.

No further information about the crash has been revealed at this point, although icy conditions reportedly contributed to other crashes in the area.

The crash investigation is ongoing, although authorities have determined drugs or alcohol were not factors in the accident.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

This crash illustrates the heightened risks associated with transporting hazardous materials like diesel fuel. Tanker trucks are uniquely vulnerable to rollover accidents, and the consequences can be severe.

The primary question investigators need to answer is what caused the tanker truck driver to lose control. Was the tanker traveling too fast for road or curve conditions? Overturning is often linked to excessive speed, especially for high-center-of-gravity vehicles like tankers. Did the driver brake suddenly, overcorrect, or swerve to avoid an obstacle? These actions can destabilize a tanker as well. Diesel fuel is a liquid cargo prone to "slosh," which can destabilize a vehicle if the load isn't evenly distributed or if the tanker lacks internal baffles to reduce movement.

Authorities also should look at road conditions and vehicle maintenance and safety issues, including data from the truck's engine control module.

For the family of the person who died in this crash, determining the exact cause of the crash will be critical for understanding what went wrong. If authorities cannot provide answers that satisfy this family, then perhaps an independent probe will be needed.