Quartzsite, AZ — November 15, 2024, one person was killed and several were injured in a multi-vehicle truck accident at around 5:00 a.m. along I.H. 10.

According to authorities, the accident took place in the eastbound lanes of Interstate Highway 10 in the vicinity of Dome Rock Road.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, a collision occurred that involved three 18-wheelers and two other vehicles. Reports state that one person suffered fatal injuries over the course of the accident. It is unknown, at this point, how many others were hurt, but their injuries were reportedly minor. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identities of the victims—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

Multi-vehicle crashes involving multiple 18-wheelers, like this one, are often complex events that require careful investigation to understand how and why they occurred. From my experience, accidents involving multiple large trucks and passenger vehicles usually point to a combination of contributing factors, and determining responsibility requires examining the actions of all parties involved.

A key question in this incident is what triggered the initial collision and whether any of the drivers were operating unsafely. Commercial drivers are expected to maintain heightened awareness, proper following distances, and safe speeds, especially in heavy traffic or during pre-dawn hours when visibility and fatigue may be factors. Investigators should review event recorders, dashcam footage, and witness statements to determine whether the drivers of any of the 18-wheelers failed to meet these safety obligations.

Another critical aspect to examine is whether mechanical issues contributed to the crash. Braking failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical problems can lead to catastrophic results when multiple vehicles are involved. Maintenance logs and inspection records for the involved trucks should be closely reviewed to ensure they were in compliance with safety standards and properly maintained by their operators or companies.

The trucking companies’ roles also merit scrutiny. Beyond vehicle upkeep, companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are adequately trained to handle emergency situations and for avoiding scheduling pressures that may encourage unsafe driving. If any lapses in oversight or practices are discovered, those companies may share responsibility for the chain of events.

Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the accident. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain critical evidence, it’s essential to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the accident receive the clarity and closure they deserve.