Pulaski County, MO (October 6, 2025) – A fiery crash involving a big rig caused major traffic delays and a hazardous fuel spill on Interstate 44 in Pulaski County Monday morning, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Accident Details: Troopers said the crash happened around 6:15 a.m. near mile marker 164, just west of Waynesville. A tractor-trailer traveling eastbound reportedly left the roadway, struck the median, and caught fire after overturning. The collision caused a large diesel spill across multiple lanes, prompting emergency crews to shut down the highway.
Firefighters from nearby departments responded to extinguish the flames, while hazmat teams worked to contain and clean up the fuel. Photos from the scene showed heavy smoke rising from the wreckage and a section of guardrail destroyed by the impact. The truck driver was transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries, and no other vehicles were reported involved. Eastbound lanes remained closed for several hours before reopening later in the day.
Investigation: The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash. Investigators will review physical evidence, such as skid marks and mechanical components, to determine whether fatigue, distraction, or a vehicle malfunction contributed. The truck’s maintenance records and the driver’s logbook will also be examined to confirm compliance with federal hours-of-service and safety requirements. Cleanup crews coordinated with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to prevent fuel runoff into nearby waterways.
Legal Considerations: Commercial trucking companies and their drivers are legally required to maintain vehicles in safe operating condition and adhere to strict safety protocols. When mechanical failure, overloading, or driver negligence leads to a highway crash, both the driver and the carrier can be held responsible for resulting injuries, property damage, and environmental harm. Victims or affected motorists may seek compensation for cleanup costs, medical expenses, and other losses caused by such incidents.
This fiery crash serves as a reminder of the dangers large trucks pose when accidents occur on high-speed roadways. I wish the injured driver a swift and full recovery.
Source: The Trucker