Authorities are still investigating a serious tractor-trailer accident that took place on US-61 at the intersection of MO-177 in Fruitland Missouri.  A 2000 Peterbilt tractor-trailer being driving by 31 year-old Phillip Ray, of Johnsville Illinois, pulled into the path of a Ford bring operated by Gary Whitledge.  66 year-old Whitledge, a resident of Jackson, was rushed to St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau to treat his injuries. 

The trucking company's DOT number is likely on the placard of the Peterbilt, and may offer investigators guidance in better understanding the circumstances of this crash.  A DOT number is provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to commercial trucking companies that operate in intrastate and interstate commerce.  Truck drivers and independent contractors commonly lease their tractors back to the trucking companies they haul freight for, and operate under that carrier's "authority."  DOT numbers are the identifier that authorities often look to in determining prior accident and safety history, as well as contact information of the motor carrier. 

The insurance companies that insure commercial motor carriers typically dispatch crash investigation teams within hours or days of a serious tractor-trailer accident.  These insurance crash investigation teams can manipulate or destroy evidence, which ultimately can prejudice a victim's injury claim and right to fair compensation.  Contact a Cape Girardeau 18-wheeler Injury Lawyer by calling (866) 840-3636 for immediate assistance.  Don't be victimized twice.