Dawson County, NE — February 12, 2025, one person was killed following a truck accident some time in the morning along Interstate Highway 80.

According to authorities, an 18-wheeler had been involved in some sort of incident causing it to block the westbound lanes of the interstate in the vicinity west of 444th Road.

A second 18-wheeler had come to a stop in the westbound lanes due to the blockage. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, the second 18-wheeler was rear-ended by a westbound motor vehicle. The person who had been behind the wheel of the striking vehicle suffered reportedly fatal injuries due to the wreck. No other injuries have been reported. 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 the back of a stopped 18-wheeler on the highway, the key question isn’t just what happened, but why it happened. In my experience handling truck accident cases, rear-end collisions like this often involve multiple contributing factors that aren’t immediately obvious from the scene alone.

Why was the first truck blocking the highway? The reports don’t specify what caused the initial incident, but if the first 18-wheeler created a traffic hazard, that raises important questions. Did it jackknife, suffer a mechanical failure, or lose control for some other reason? Investigators should examine ELD data, dashcam footage, and witness statements to determine why the truck came to a stop and whether it could have been avoided.

Was the second truck visible and positioned safely? When an 18-wheeler is stopped in an active travel lane, it becomes a major hazard for approaching traffic. Did the driver activate hazard lights, set out warning triangles, or attempt to move to the shoulder? Investigators should determine whether the truck was properly marked to alert other drivers to the obstruction.

Did the striking driver have enough time to react? Highways allow for higher speeds, which means drivers need enough warning to slow down when encountering a stopped vehicle. Was the driver distracted, fatigued, or otherwise unable to see the hazard in time? Investigators should review phone records, visibility conditions, and potential driver impairment to determine whether inattention played a role.

Did broader issues contribute to the wreck? Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers follow safe operating procedures, including how to respond to emergencies on the highway. If either truck was poorly maintained, improperly positioned, or part of a company with a history of safety violations, those factors could be relevant in understanding why this crash happened. Investigators should review company policies, driver training records, and past violations to determine whether broader issues played a role.

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 and closure they deserve.