Tractor-Trailer Safety in Pennsylvania: Lessons from a Recent Tragic Crash

On a foggy Saturday morning, a devastating accident on Interstate 81 near Union Township underscored the critical importance of tractor-trailer safety in Pennsylvania. The crash, which occurred at 4:07 a.m., involved three tractor-trailers and resulted in the tragic death of 31-year-old Adrian Jemmott from Trenton, New Jersey.

According to Pennsylvania State Police, Jemmott was a passenger in a 2017 Hino 268 truck driven by John Concepcion, also from New Jersey. The vehicle, traveling northbound in the right lane of I-81 near mile-marker 87.5, veered off the road and collided with a legally parked 2016 Cascadia freightliner. The impact caused Jemmott to be ejected through the windshield, leading to his death at the scene, as confirmed by the Lebanon County Coroner’s Office.

The collision didn’t stop there. The force of Concepcion’s truck hitting the freightliner caused the freightliner’s rear end to intrude into the left lane. This created a dangerous situation that was further compounded when a second 2017 Hino 268, driven by Desmond Crawley, collided with the rear end of Concepcion’s truck. Fortunately, both Concepcion and Crawley were wearing their seatbelts. Concepcion suffered suspected injuries and Crawley sustained minor injuries. They were both transported to Hershey Medical Center by Penn State Health Life Lion EMS.

This tragic incident highlights several key aspects of tractor-trailer safety that every driver should be aware of:

1. Seatbelt Use: The use of seatbelts is crucial in protecting both drivers and passengers. In this accident, the seatbelt use by Concepcion and Crawley likely mitigated further injuries. Unfortunately, Jemmott’s seatbelt status could not be determined due to the severe damage, but this underscores the need for all occupants to wear seatbelts at all times.
2. Parking Safety: Proper parking practices are essential for preventing accidents. The freightliner was legally parked, yet its presence in a hazardous area contributed to the severity of the collision. Drivers should ensure that parked vehicles are in safe locations, especially on highways.
3. Driver Vigilance: The accident occurred early in the morning when visibility can be compromised. Tractor-trailer drivers must remain vigilant and adhere to safe driving practices, particularly in low-visibility conditions.
4. Emergency Response: Quick and effective emergency response is crucial. The swift action of emergency services in transporting the injured underscores the importance of having a well-coordinated response system in place.

As we reflect on this tragedy, it’s clear that adherence to safety protocols and best practices is vital for preventing such accidents. By ensuring that seatbelts are used, vehicles are parked safely, and drivers remain alert, we can contribute to safer roadways for everyone.