Reeder, NC — December 19, 2024, fifteen people were injured following a truck accident at approximately 3:30 p.m. along U.S. Highway 12.

According to authorities, 11 people were traveling eastbound in a Chevrolet Express van and four were traveling in a GMC Yukon on U.S. Highway 12 at the S.H. 22 intersection when the accident took place.

Officials indicate that, for reasons yet to be confirmed, a northbound 18-wheeler on S.H. 22 attempted to stop at the intersection, but was apparently unable to do so; the 18-wheeler became jackknifed as a result. A collision followed involving all three vehicles.

A 49-year-old man and five minors who had been with him in the Express van suffered serious injuries, according to reports. A 50-year-old woman who had been driving the Yukon and eight minors sustained minor injuries, as well, according to reports. Those who necessitated it were transported to area medical facilities by EMS in order to receive necessary treatment. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identities of the victims—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When an accident involves multiple vehicles and so many injuries, people may assume it’s a rare occurrence or the result of an isolated mistake. However, in my experience handling commercial accident cases for over three decades, such events often have underlying complexities that go far beyond any single factor.

The details currently available about this crash raise significant questions. Why was the 18-wheeler unable to stop at the intersection? Was the driver distracted, fatigued, or inexperienced? Could mechanical failures like brake malfunctions have rendered the truck uncontrollable? Investigating these possibilities is crucial to determining what led to the jackknife and subsequent collision.

The trucking company responsible for the 18-wheeler must also face scrutiny. Federal regulations require these companies to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and their drivers are well-trained and compliant with safety guidelines. Were the truck’s brakes and other critical systems inspected and maintained properly? Did the company prioritize safety, or were its policies more focused on meeting delivery schedules at all costs? These questions can illuminate whether broader corporate practices played a role in the accident.

Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the crash. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain critical evidence, it’s essential to examine every factor to ensure those impacted by the incident receive the clarity and closure they deserve.