Morton County, ND – A commercial driver has been cited for distracted driving after rear-ending a pickup truck towing a camper on Interstate 94 west of New Salem, according to the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on Sunday, July 13, when a pickup truck experiencing mechanical problems was traveling westbound on Interstate 94 with its hazard lights activated. The slower-moving vehicle was towing a camper/trailer at the time of the collision.
Investigators determined the commercial motor vehicle driver was distracted while eating and failed to recognize the slower-moving pickup ahead. The commercial vehicle struck the rear of the pickup, causing damage to both vehicles.
Authorities cited the commercial driver for distracted driving following the investigation.
Despite the impact, the Highway Patrol said no one suffered serious injuries in the crash.
The agency is using the incident as a reminder that distracted driving extends beyond the use of cell phones. Eating, adjusting vehicle controls, and other activities that take a driver’s attention away from the roadway can have serious consequences, particularly when operating large commercial vehicles.
“A moment of distraction is all it takes,” the Highway Patrol said, urging motorists to keep their attention on the road and save meals, phones, and other distractions for scheduled stops.
Officials encourage all drivers to remain alert, especially when approaching vehicles traveling below the speed limit with hazard lights activated.
