Columbia County, FL — March 2, 2025, one person was killed following a truck accident shortly before 7:00 a.m. along Interstate Highway 75.

According to authorities, one person was traveling in a southbound motor vehicle on I.H. 75 when the accident took place.

There was allegedly traffic in the area at the time of the wreck. Officials indicate that, for reasons yet to be confirmed, the motor vehicle moved to the shoulder area where it crashed into an 18-wheeler that had already been there.

The person who had been behind the wheel of the striking vehicle reportedly suffered fatal injuries and was declared deceased at the scene. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identity of the victim—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a vehicle collides with a parked 18-wheeler, the key question isn’t just what happened, but why it happened. In my experience handling truck accident cases, wrecks like this rarely occur without multiple contributing factors that need to be examined.

Why was the truck parked on the shoulder? The shoulder is meant for emergencies, not routine stops. If the truck had a legitimate mechanical issue, investigators need to confirm whether the driver followed proper safety protocols. If the driver stopped for a non-emergency reason—such as resting, checking a GPS, or waiting on a dispatch—then that decision needs to be scrutinized. Investigators should review driver statements, dispatch records, and vehicle inspection reports to determine if the truck should have been there in the first place.

Was the truck properly visible? A parked 18-wheeler is a major hazard, especially in low light or heavy traffic. If its hazard lights were off, reflective markings were worn, or it was positioned too close to active lanes, those factors could have contributed to the crash. Investigators should examine the truck’s lighting, placement, and visibility conditions at the time of impact.

What caused the other driver to leave the roadway? People don’t typically veer onto the shoulder without reason. Was the driver trying to avoid another vehicle? Did they experience a medical emergency or fall asleep at the wheel? Was distraction or fatigue a factor? Investigators should review dashcam footage, witness statements, and cell phone records to determine why the vehicle left the road.

Did the trucking company play a role? Trucking companies are responsible for training drivers on when and where they can stop. If this driver parked in an unsafe location due to poor training or company pressure, that’s something investigators need to uncover. Reviewing company policies, safety records, and prior violations could provide insight into whether broader issues contributed to the crash.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is finding answers. Even if it takes an independent investigation to gather the right evidence, it’s critical to examine every factor to ensure those affected by the crash get the clarity they deserve.