Awendaw, SC — January 15, 2025, two people were injured in a truck accident just before noon on U.S. Route 17 near Guerins Bridge Road.

Authorities said two semi-trucks collided while attempting to merge while heading south. The collision caused one of the trucks to jackknife, and fuel was spilled onto the road.

Both drivers were injured in the crash, according to authorities, but their injuries were described as non-life-threatening.

Authorities have not released the names of the injured drivers or any other information about the crash at this time.

The accident is still under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

This collision between two semi-trucks on U.S. Route 17 raises questions about the merging actions of both drivers and how the vehicles came into conflict. Merging is a complex maneuver for any vehicle, and for large trucks, the stakes are even higher due to their size and reduced maneuverability.

A primary focus of the investigation will likely be on how the trucks approached the merge. Did one driver fail to yield, or was there a misjudgment of space or speed? Evidence such as skid marks, vehicle positions and any available dashcam or surveillance footage will help clarify the sequence of events.

The jackknifing of one of the trucks suggests that its driver likely braked suddenly, causing the trailer to swing out of alignment with the cab. This raises questions about whether the truck was traveling at an appropriate speed for merging and whether the driver’s response to the situation was appropriate.

Another important aspect is the fuel spill caused by the collision. While such spills are often contained quickly by emergency crews, they highlight the potential for additional hazards during truck collisions. Investigators may examine whether the truck’s fuel tank design played any role in the spill.

For the injured drivers, understanding how this crash occurred is critical. A thorough investigation will help determine whether driver actions or external factors contributed to the collision and provide clarity on how similar incidents can be avoided in the future.