Greg Sanchez Killed in Truck Accident in Reeves County, TX

Reeves County, TX — January 17, 2025, Greg Sanchez was killed in a truck accident at about 1 p.m. on southbound U.S. Route 285.

Authorities said a 2011 Toyota Tundra crashed into the back end of a 2003 Peterbilt semi-truck near mile marker 364 as a sandstorm limited visibility.

Toyota driver Greg Edward Sanchez, 41, died at the scene of the crash, according to authorities.

The crash reportedly resulted in a multi-car pileup, but no other injuries were reported.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash.

The accident is still being investigated.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

Crashes in low-visibility conditions, such as sandstorms, pose unique challenges for investigators trying to determine what went wrong. While initial reports suggest the Toyota Tundra struck the back of a semi-truck, my experience tells me that crashes like this are rarely as simple as they seem.

One critical question is whether all parties took reasonable precautions for the weather conditions. Reduced visibility requires drivers to slow down, increase following distances and use appropriate lighting. Commercial truck drivers, in particular, are held to a higher standard due to the increased danger posed by their vehicles. Investigators should determine whether the semi-truck’s driver was operating at a safe speed for the conditions and whether the truck’s lights and reflective markings were functioning properly to make it visible to others.

The design and condition of the truck also merit scrutiny. Rear-end collisions involving semi-trucks can often result in catastrophic outcomes if the truck lacks proper underride guards. These guards are designed to prevent smaller vehicles from sliding under the truck’s trailer, reducing the severity of impacts. If this truck was not equipped with a compliant underride guard or if it was improperly maintained, that could significantly increase the truck’s liability.

Another area to investigate is the roadway itself. Sandstorms can create hazardous conditions that may not be adequately addressed by highway infrastructure or maintenance practices. Were warning signs in place to alert drivers about the potential for low visibility? Did the highway design provide sufficient space for vehicles to pull over safely? These factors can play a significant role in whether such crashes occur.

While weather events like sandstorms are beyond human control, they underscore the importance of proactive safety measures from all stakeholders: drivers, trucking companies and highway authorities alike. A full investigation should examine whether policies and procedures were in place to mitigate the dangers posed by such extreme conditions.

While the focus here is on understanding what caused this specific crash, the larger takeaway is clear: accidents in low-visibility conditions demand more than a surface-level examination. To ensure accountability, it’s essential to look at every factor: from vehicle design to driver actions to the conditions of the roadway. Only then can the victim’s family have the answers it deserves.