Lake Wales, FL — December 16, 2024, Robert Mosley and Joseph Jarvis were killed in a truck accident at about 9:30 p.m. on State Road 60.

Authorities said a 2002 Chevrolet 2500 van was northbound on West Lake Wales Road when it collided with an eastbound 2023 Freightliner Cascadia semi-truck.

Robert Clem Mosley, 24, and Joseph Jarvis Wade, 35, died in the crash, according to authorities.

The truck driver was not injured, authorities said.

Authorities reportedly said they do not expect any criminal charges to be filed after the crash.

The accident is still being investigated.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

A crash like this raises significant questions about what factors led to the collision and the resulting fatalities. While authorities indicated they do not anticipate criminal charges, this doesn’t necessarily resolve questions of liability or provide answers for the victims’ families.

One of the first things to examine is whether the intersection design played a role. Were there clear traffic control measures in place, such as stop signs, yield signs, or traffic lights? Poor visibility, inadequate signage or obstructed sightlines could contribute to a crash like this, particularly at night.

The crash happened at 9:30 p.m., a time when darkness would have been a factor. Investigators should examine whether the intersection was well-lit and whether either driver had an impaired view of oncoming traffic. For example, headlights from other vehicles, roadside obstructions or glare from signage could have affected visibility.

One critical question is whether either vehicle failed to yield the right of way. For example, did the semi-truck fail to properly react to the van’s movement? Dashcam footage from the Freightliner, if available, could shed light on this.

Both vehicles should be inspected for possible mechanical problems, such as brake failures, steering issues, or other malfunctions that could have prevented either driver from avoiding the collision. Additionally, investigators should review the truck driver’s recent actions to determine whether fatigue, distraction or impairment might have been factors.

Semi-trucks, due to their size and weight, require much greater stopping distances than passenger vehicles. Investigators should analyze whether the Freightliner’s driver had sufficient time to react and whether they took proper evasive action. The truck’s engine control module (ECM) data could reveal details like speed, braking activity and steering adjustments leading up to the crash.

Weather and road surface conditions could also play a role. If the roads were wet, icy or otherwise hazardous, this could affect both the stopping ability of the vehicles and their handling.

While criminal charges may not be forthcoming, civil liability could still be in play. Determining fault will depend on the evidence gathered from the crash scene and beyond. Investigators will need to assess whether negligence, either on the part of the truck driver or a third party (such as a road maintenance entity), contributed to the collision.

Crashes like this are often more complex than they appear at first glance. Independent investigations are frequently necessary to uncover critical details that may not surface in initial reports. The families of those who died deserve to know not only what happened but also whether it could have been prevented. A thorough examination of all contributing factors is essential for holding the appropriate parties accountable and preventing similar tragedies in the future.