Whites Creek, TN (April 9, 2025) – A tragic collision on I-24 West near Old Hickory Blvd claimed the life of a 42-year-old man early Tuesday morning. The crash involved a Volvo tractor-trailer and a Nissan Altima and prompted a swift response from emergency crews and Metro Nashville police.
A traffic collision occurred when a semi-truck traveling in the right lane attempted to avoid a disabled vehicle on the shoulder by moving into the left lane. As the truck merged back into the right lane, the Altima reportedly tried to pass on the right side and struck the trailer’s tires. The impact caused the Altima to lose control and veer off the roadway, ultimately crashing into a nearby tree line.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. The 42-year-old male passenger in the Altima was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have withheld his identity pending notification of next of kin.
The driver of the Altima, a 30-year-old adult, and a 19-year-old passenger seated in the rear were both transported to Skyline Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators with the Metro Nashville Police Department reported that there were no signs of impairment in either driver involved in the collision.
The incident remains under active investigation, and further details may be released as authorities continue to review evidence and witness accounts.
Our hearts go out to the family of the deceased and those injured in this devastating crash.
Highway Safety and Semi-Truck Collisions in Tennessee
Crashes involving large commercial trucks, like this one on I-24, are among the most dangerous due to the size and weight disparities between vehicles. Tennessee’s major interstates, particularly near busy interchanges like Old Hickory Blvd, see significant volumes of truck traffic, increasing the risk for such catastrophic collisions.
According to the Tennessee Department of Safety, commercial vehicle crashes accounted for over 11% of all roadway fatalities statewide last year. Lane changes, blind spots, and the limited maneuverability of tractor-trailers are common contributors to serious wrecks, especially when combined with sudden driver actions from nearby passenger vehicles.
This tragic event highlights the importance of maintaining safe passing behavior, especially around large trucks. Attempting to overtake on the right side or making abrupt movements near trailers can lead to severe consequences, as seen in this incident. It also underscores the need for both commercial and passenger drivers to remain vigilant and patient when sharing the road.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a highway collision or suffered a loss in a commercial vehicle crash, Local Accident Reports can help you navigate your next steps. Contact us today for guidance and support.
