Charleston, WV (August 21, 2026) – Two people were critically injured on Wednesday, August 19, after a tractor-trailer left Interstate 77 in Charleston.
The tractor-trailer was traveling south in the middle lane around 5:45 a.m. when its load shifted, causing the driver to lose control. The vehicle crossed a concrete barrier and came to rest in a parking lot at the dead end of Summers Street near Christopher Street.
The driver was ejected, while a passenger became trapped inside the tractor-trailer. Both occupants were taken to a local hospital with critical injuries.
Southbound I-77 was closed at the interstate split while emergency units worked at the site. The highway reopened shortly after 8 a.m.
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation. We hope both injured people receive the care they need to recover.
What Can Cause a Tractor-Trailer to Leave the Road?
Large trucks can leave their travel lanes when drivers lose control because of sudden vehicle movement, roadway conditions, mechanical problems, or shifting cargo. An unexpectedly shifting load can change how a truck handles, especially during changes in direction or speed.
Truck size and weight can also affect stopping distance and stability. A tractor-trailer may require substantially more room to slow down than a passenger vehicle, especially when carrying a heavy load.
Proper cargo securement helps keep weight distributed as intended during travel. Drivers and trucking companies also routinely inspect vehicles and cargo before and during trips to reduce risks associated with shifting loads or mechanical problems.
