FMCSA shuts down driver following fatal crash

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced Dec. 3 it has issued an imminent hazard shut down order for Florida-based long-haul driver James H. Patterson. The agency has ordered him not to operate a commercial vehicle in interstate commerce.

The order comes following a crash in Rockingham County, Virginia, in which the truck and trailer driven by Patterson crossed the centerline of the road and overturned onto a passenger vehicle, killing the driver.

It was discovered Patterson’s driving privileges were suspended and he was in the possession of a controlled substance.

FMCSA also says Patterson had violated hours-of-service rules and was using his phone at the time of the accident. He was also speeding, FMCSA says.