Two residents of Daviess County were seriously injured Friday when a box truck veered off US 431 and collided head‑on with a tree. The accident occurred in the 10800 block of the highway, a stretch that sees a mix of local and through traffic.

What happened

According to the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, the northbound box truck left the pavement and struck a tree directly. The impact trapped the driver inside the cab, requiring firefighters to cut through the vehicle to free him. Both occupants – a 50‑year‑old driver and a 19‑year‑old passenger – were wearing no seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Emergency response

First‑responders arrived quickly on the scene. Firefighters performed the extrication, while deputies provided medical assistance until EMS arrived. The injured parties were then transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of serious injuries. No other vehicles were involved, and no additional injuries were reported.

Investigation findings

Preliminary investigation indicates the truck was traveling northbound when it left the roadway. The driver told deputies that he had fallen asleep while driving, a factor that likely contributed to the loss of control. Authorities are reviewing the driver’s hours and the condition of the vehicle to determine if any further safety concerns exist.

Safety reminders

The sheriff’s office reminded motorists of the importance of seatbelt use, especially on rural highways where fatigue can set in during long drives. “Seatbelts save lives,” the department emphasized, urging all drivers and passengers to buckle up at all times.

Community impact

Local residents expressed concern over the accident, noting that the stretch of US 431 has seen several incidents in recent months. County officials said they will evaluate road signage and lighting in the area to help prevent future crashes.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information about the crash is asked to contact the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office.

Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.