Scotts burg, OR — February 20, 2025, One person was injured following an 18-wheeler accident that occurred at around 5:00 P.M. on Highway 38.

An investigation is underway following an 18-wheeler accident that left one person injured during the evening hours February 20th. According to official reports, an 18-wheeler was traveling in the eastbound lanes of Highway 38 when for unknown reasons the truck lost control and went off-road where it struck a tree.

When first responders arrive don the scene they found that the driver had sustained serious injuries and they were transported to the hospital for treatment. At this time the identity of the driver and the cause of the accident have not been released however this remains an ongoing investigation and authorities may released additional details in the future.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I see reports like this, my first thought is that I hope investigators are able to determine exactly what led to the crash. When an 18-wheeler loses control and goes off the road, many people assume the driver simply made a mistake. However, my experience has shown that these situations are often more complex than they initially appear. To truly understand what happened, there are three critical questions that must be addressed.

The first question is whether authorities conducted a thorough investigation. Law enforcement officers will typically document the crash scene, gather witness statements, and attempt to determine the sequence of events leading up to the accident. However, the depth of these investigations can vary depending on available resources and expertise. Since large trucks require greater stopping distances and react differently to road conditions than passenger vehicles, it’s important to examine whether external factors—such as poor road conditions, another vehicle’s actions, or shifting cargo—may have contributed to the crash. Without a detailed examination, critical information may be missed.

The second question is whether anyone has considered the possibility of a vehicle defect. Commercial trucks are highly complex machines, and mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, steering issues, or tire blowouts can have devastating consequences. If the truck’s braking system failed or the steering became unresponsive, the driver may have had little to no control over the vehicle. Additionally, investigators should review the truck’s maintenance records to determine whether it was properly inspected and serviced. These types of issues require a forensic examination of the truck before it is repaired or moved, yet they are often overlooked in initial crash reports.

The final question is whether all electronic data related to the crash has been collected. The truck’s electronic control module (ECM) may contain crucial information about speed, braking, and steering inputs in the moments leading up to the crash. Many commercial trucks are also equipped with telematics systems that track GPS data, vehicle diagnostics, and even video footage from inside the cab. Investigators should also review any available surveillance footage or traffic camera recordings that might provide additional insight into what happened. Unfortunately, this kind of data is often not preserved unless someone specifically requests it.

Until these questions are fully answered, it’s too soon to assume what caused this crash. Ensuring a thorough investigation isn’t just about determining responsibility—it’s about understanding all contributing factors, providing answers to those affected, and, if necessary, taking steps to improve road safety for all drivers.