Nassau County, NY — January 18, 2025, Chalermchai Losirisup was killed following an 18-wheeler accident that occurred at around 9:00 A.M. on LIE South Service Road.

An investigation is underway following an 18-wheeler accident that left one bicyclist dead during the morning hours of January 18th. According to official reports, Chalermchai Losirisup was traveling on a bicycle in the eastbound lanes of LIE South Service Road between exits 43 and 44 when for unknown reasons the bicycle collided into the rear of a parked 18-wheeler.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that Losirisup had sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. At this time it remains unknown what caused the bicycle to strike the rear of the tractor-trailer, however this remains an ongoing investigation and more details may be released by authorities in the future.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a fatal accident involving an 18-wheeler and a bicyclist occurs, it is essential to conduct a thorough investigation to determine what contributed to the incident. Addressing three critical questions can help uncover the truth: Did the authorities conduct a thorough investigation? Has the possibility of a vehicle defect been considered? Has all relevant electronic data been preserved and analyzed?

The first question concerns the thoroughness of the investigation. Reports indicate that the bicycle collided with the rear of a parked 18-wheeler on the LIE South Service Road. Key details must be explored, such as whether the truck was parked legally and visibly. Was the area well-lit, and were there any obstructions or environmental factors that might have reduced the bicyclist’s ability to see the truck? The road's design, including the presence of adequate shoulders or bike lanes, should also be scrutinized. A detailed examination of the scene, including physical evidence like skid marks or debris, is necessary to understand the sequence of events fully.

The second question examines whether a mechanical issue or defect might have played a role. For the bicyclist, a failure in the braking or steering system could have contributed to the collision. Similarly, the condition of the 18-wheeler should be investigated to determine if any defects or maintenance issues—such as faulty lights or reflective markers—may have made the parked truck less visible or identifiable as a hazard. Both vehicles require expert inspection to ensure all potential mechanical or design issues are addressed.

The third question focuses on the preservation and analysis of electronic data. While bicycles generally do not have electronic data systems, the 18-wheeler is likely equipped with an electronic control module (ECM) that can provide valuable information. This data may include the truck's location, whether its hazard lights or parking brakes were engaged, and how long it had been stationary. Promptly securing this data is critical to establish the truck's operational status and confirm compliance with parking and safety regulations.

Investigating these factors requires collaboration between crash reconstruction experts and engineers to ensure a complete understanding of the incident. Initial findings by authorities often serve as a foundation, but additional independent analysis can provide critical details that are sometimes overlooked.

By addressing these three key areas—completeness of the investigation, the potential for defects, and the preservation of electronic data—a clearer understanding of the accident can emerge. These steps are crucial to ensure that all contributing factors are considered and that the full story is revealed.