Florence County, SC — February 7, 2025, three people were injured following a truck accident that took place in the dark hours along Interstate Highway 20.

According to authorities, the accident took place in the vicinity of the eastbound I.H. 20 ramp that leads to Interstate Highway 95.

Details surrounding the accident remain scarce. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons a collision took place involving an 18-wheeler; it had apparently overturned over the course of the accident, coming to a stop resting on its side.

Three people who had been involved reportedly suffered injuries of as yet unknown severity. Additional information pertaining to this incident—including the identities of the victims—are unavailable at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When an 18-wheeler overturns in a crash, 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.

What caused the truck to tip over? Large commercial vehicles are designed to stay upright under normal driving conditions, so a rollover typically points to a sudden shift in balance. Did the driver take a turn too fast, overcorrect after a drift, or swerve to avoid an obstacle? Investigators should examine dashcam footage, electronic logging device (ELD) data, and witness statements to determine what led to the loss of control.

Did cargo loading contribute to the crash? Unsecured or imbalanced cargo can shift unexpectedly, making a truck unstable and harder to control. If the load inside the trailer was not properly distributed or secured, that could explain why the truck overturned. Investigators should review loading records and conduct a post-crash inspection to determine whether cargo issues played a role.

Was the truck driver fatigued or distracted? Driving at night presents additional risks, particularly for long-haul truckers who may be pushing the limits of their shift. Fatigue slows reaction times, and distraction—whether from a phone, GPS, or dispatch communication—can take a driver’s focus away from the road. Investigators should review hours-of-service logs, phone records, and in-cab monitoring data to determine whether exhaustion or distraction was a factor.

Did broader issues contribute to the wreck? Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are properly trained and that their vehicles are in safe operating condition. If the company failed to enforce safe driving practices, allowed an overworked driver on the road, or neglected vehicle maintenance, those decisions could be relevant in understanding why this crash happened. Investigators should examine company policies, driver training records, and past safety 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.