YAKIMA COUNTY, Wash. — Dale Lewis, a 60-year-old semi-driver from Sunnyside, Wash., tragically died March 1 after the tractor-trailer he was driving rolled off of an overpass in Yakima.
Washington State Highway Patrol said Lewis was driving westbound on Interstate 82 on the ramp to North 1st Street when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing the tractor-trailer to roll over the cement barrier and land on North 1st Street.
The driver was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. No other vehicles or persons were involved.
An investigation into the crash is ongoing.
Commentary on the fatal rollover crash that claimed the life of Dale Lewis
The sudden and unexpected loss of a good man is heartbreaking and will undoubtedly leave the Lewis family devastated. The loss of a loved one profoundly impacts the family’s future income, guidance, and support. Many questions are raised in this accident, and the Lewis family deserves answers.
It is possible that factors that are not readily apparent played a role here. I would be interested in investigating the actions of the employer. Was Mr. Lewis afforded proper rest to ensure he could safely operate the truck? Alternatively, was the truck properly maintained and repaired before the trip to reduce the risk of an accident? If the employer failed to provide a safe work environment, the Lewis family deserves answers.
I would also investigate the integrity of the truck itself. While not mentioned in the report, the loss of control could have been caused by factors outside Mr. Lewis’s control. For instance, a bad tire or steering mechanism could have prevented Mr. Lewis from safely navigating the curve. If the truck or tires manufacturer failed to provide a safe vehicle, the Lewis family deserves answers.
We will need further information from those involved before we can form any firm conclusions on the cause of this accident. Until that time, I pray the Lewis family can find the answers to their questions and find peace during this difficult time of grief.
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