ST. George, UT — December 22, 2024 One person was injured following a car accident that occurred at around 1:12 P.M. on I-15.

An investigation is underway following a car accident that left one person injured during the afternoon hours of December 22nd. According to official reports, a woman was operating her SUV in the northbound lanes of the I-15 overpass near Dixie Dr. when the vehicle attempted to take the ramp for exit 5. For unknown reasons the vehicle failed to navigate the curve and crashed through the concrete barrier and landed on the river bank 30 feet below upside down.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that the woman had sustained serious injuries and transported her to the hospital for treatment. At this time the accident is still under investigation as authorities are trying to ascertain what led to the collision, and currently the woman's identity and status of her injuries remain unknown.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a serious accident occurs, such as this one on I-15 where an SUV left the roadway and fell 30 feet from an overpass, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the factors contributing to the crash. In single-vehicle accidents of this nature, assumptions about driver error are often made, but there are many potential contributing factors that need to be explored. Addressing three critical questions is essential for a complete understanding.

First, did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? Accidents involving vehicles failing to navigate ramps or curves require careful examination of the roadway design and conditions. Was the ramp properly marked with clear signage indicating the curve and any necessary speed adjustments? Were there any issues with the road surface, such as uneven pavement, debris, or slick conditions, that could have affected the vehicle's traction? Analyzing these aspects, along with witness accounts or surveillance footage, is crucial to understanding how and why the SUV left the roadway.

Second, has anyone looked into the possibility that a vehicle defect caused or contributed to the crash? Mechanical failures, such as problems with the brakes, steering, or suspension, could make it difficult to safely navigate a curve, particularly on an overpass. Was the SUV’s stability control system functioning correctly, and were the tires in good condition? A forensic examination of the vehicle is essential to rule out or identify mechanical issues that could have played a role in the crash. Without such an evaluation, critical details could be overlooked.

Finally, has all the electronic data relating to the crash been collected? The SUV’s electronic control module (ECM) may contain vital information about the moments leading up to the accident, including speed, braking, and steering inputs. This data can help determine whether the driver attempted to adjust to the curve or if another factor, such as a sudden loss of control, contributed to the crash. Additionally, nearby surveillance cameras or dashcam footage could provide visual evidence of the vehicle’s path and any external factors that might have influenced the crash. Promptly securing this evidence is crucial to ensure its availability for analysis.

By addressing these three questions, investigators can gain a clearer understanding of the factors involved and provide answers for the injured individual and others affected by the incident. A thorough investigation can also identify broader safety concerns, such as road design or vehicle performance issues, that could be addressed to prevent similar accidents in the future. Ensuring these steps are taken helps promote safer conditions for all road users.