Surprise, AZ —January 13, 2025, one person was injured in a truck accident at about 2 a.m. on Grand Avenue/U.S. Route 60.

Authorities said a semi-truck and a pickup truck were involved in the crash near State Route 303. The cause of the crash is unknown at this time.

One person, whose name has not been released, was hospitalized after the crash, according to authorities.

The crash reportedly closed the southbound lanes of Grand Avenue for a short time.

Authorities have not released any further information about the crash. The accident is still being investigated.

Commentary

When I read about a crash involving a semi-truck and a pickup truck in the early morning hours, the first thing that comes to mind is the importance of investigating the conditions surrounding the collision. Nighttime crashes often raise questions about visibility, driver behavior, and road conditions.

One critical area of focus is what caused the vehicles to collide. Was one driver distracted, fatigued or impaired? Early morning hours are a time when drivers may be more likely to experience fatigue or reduced alertness, particularly for commercial truck drivers who may be nearing the end of their shifts. Cell phone records, toxicology reports and in-cab video footage, if available, could help determine whether distraction or impairment played a role.

Another key factor is the roadway itself. Was the crash location well-lit? Poor lighting can make it harder for drivers to see other vehicles or react to sudden changes. Additionally, investigators should assess whether the design of the intersection contributed to the crash. For instance, were traffic signals functioning correctly, or were there obstructions that limited visibility?

The involvement of a semi-truck raises additional questions about vehicle condition and operation. Was the truck properly maintained, and were its lights and reflectors in working order? These features are critical for making large vehicles visible to others on the road, particularly at night. Similarly, the pickup truck’s actions need to be examined. Was it speeding, or did it perform an unsafe maneuver that contributed to the collision?

Finally, the brief closure of southbound lanes highlights the disruption that crashes involving semi-trucks can cause, even when injuries are limited. Understanding the root cause of this crash is not just about accountability but also about identifying measures to improve safety at this intersection and on similar stretches of road.

A thorough investigation will be essential to answering these questions and ensuring that those involved have the clarity they need. By addressing the factors that led to this crash, authorities can work toward preventing similar incidents in the future.