GRAND PRAIRIE, TX (01/30/2016) — Police are investigating a fatal accident involving a tractor-trailer that claimed the life of one person early Saturday morning.
According to authorities, a driver was killed after their vehicle was rear-ended by a tractor-trailer along Interstate 30 (near Belt Line Road and North Carrier Parkway) in Grand Prairie, Texas on Sunday.
Police reported that at around 12:45 a.m. Saturday night/ early Sunday morning, a Ford Mustang was driving slowly in the right-hand lane of I-30 with its hazard lights on, possibly due to a flat tire, when an 18-wheeler rear-ended the car.
The tractor-trailer—driven by Edmond Palmore—dragged the Mustang until it was pinned against a barrier. The impact caused both vehicles to catch fire.
Officials stated that Palmore was able to escape his vehicle, however, the driver of the Mustang (who has not yet been identified) was trapped inside and died at the scene.
Palmore was taken to Arlington Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
Police stated that it was too early to determine if charges will be filed.
An investigation is pending.
Commentary
I’d be interested in what the official investigation uncovers about this wreck. Reports say the Mustang was dragged until it was pinned against a barrier. Did the truck driver not realize he had hit another vehicle?
When you’re on a highway, always stay focused and pay attention to your surroundings. If you notice a slower moving vehicle, make a point to shift lanes as quickly (and as safely) as possible. Additionally, be extra mindful to not tailgate. Although it’s never a good idea to tailgate, doing so at night can be particularly hazardous since your field of view is dramatically reduced and it’s harder to detect if you will have to brake suddenly. Focused driving allows you to anticipate traffic and make the necessary maneuvers to help you avoid an unwanted situation.
