Wendell, ID — August 24, 2024, two people were injured in a truck accident shortly after 3:30 p.m. along Interstate Highway 84.

According to authorities, a 59-year-old woman and a 34-year-old man were traveling in an eastbound Subaru Legacy in the left lane of I.H. 84 in the vicinity west of Hagerman Road when the accident took place.

Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, a Volvo 18-wheeler with a trailer in tow which had been traveling in the right lane next to the Subaru failed to safely maintain its lane of travel. It reportedly veered to the left, entering the left-hand lane of the interstate. This led to a collision between the truck's trailer and the Subaru. The impact apparently caused the passenger vehicle to swerve off of the roadway and into the center median of the interstate.

Both occupants of the Subaru incurred injuries as a result of the wreck; the man was flown to an area medical facility for treatment, while the woman was taken by ground ambulance. No other injuries have been reported. 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 accidents like this occur, many might assume that they result from a simple mistake. However, based on my experience, crashes involving large trucks often have more complex causes that demand a thorough investigation.

In this case, the primary focus should be on why the 18-wheeler veered out of its lane. There could be several potential factors at play, including driver distraction, fatigue, or even a mechanical failure. Each of these possibilities needs to be carefully explored to determine what led to the collision. It’s particularly concerning when a commercial vehicle like an 18-wheeler fails to maintain its lane of travel because of the significant risk it poses to nearby smaller vehicles.

Additionally, it’s essential to consider the trucking company’s role in this incident. If the driver was fatigued due to excessive hours on the road, the company could share responsibility for failing to enforce regulations designed to prevent such situations. Furthermore, if the truck wasn’t properly maintained, any mechanical issues that contributed to the wreck could also point to lapses in the company’s vehicle maintenance practices.

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 vital evidence, it is crucial to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the crash receive the clarity and closure they deserve.