WSAZ Investigates | Looking at cable median barriers after deadly crossover crash

JACKSON COUNTY, W.Va. (WSAZ) - A crossover crash that happened Wednesday evening on Interstate 77 in Jackson County, is leaving behind questions.

Investigators say the driver of a box truck headed north went through the median and hit a truck hauling a horse trailer in the southbound lanes.

Deadly crash closes I-77 for hours

The driver of the box truck that crossed the median was not hurt, but the driver of the truck that was hit was flown to the hospital where he later passed away.

With cable barriers installed in the median to prevent crashes like this one, we wanted to know how this happened and what’s being done to prevent another fatality.

So, we reached out to the West Virginia Department of Transportation, asking when the barrier was installed, if the agency is investigating why it gave way, and when the DOT will be fixing the barrier.

A spokesperson did not answer when the cable barrier was installed but said the Traffic Engineering Division will be gathering information about the crash and the damage to the cable barrier. They also said crews are “planning to repair the cable guard rail as soon as next week as the work, and materials have been expedited.”

So, we followed up again asking when the barrier was installed and if they have any preliminary answers about why the barrier failed.

The WVDOT responded Friday with the following statement:

“Any time there is a fatality on a West Virginia road, the WVDOT is committed to thoroughly reviewing all factors gathered about the crash and looking into how it may have been prevented. One fatality on our roadways is one too many. The cable barrier is a proactive and effective measure to reduce crossover crashes, however, every crash is unique with factors like speed, the angle of impact, weather conditions, and vehicle characteristics that all contribute to the outcomes of an incident. The thorough review process that follows each fatality is crucial for understanding these factors and determining what, if any, additional measures could further improve road safety. This approach helps ensure that every possible action is taken to reduce future accidents and protect drivers.

“The cable barrier along that stretch was installed in 2019 and is similar to those installed across the country.”

Keep checking the WSAZ app for the latest information.