The Effingham County sherriff's department says just after 3:30 Monday, they were dispatched to a vehicle accident East of Effingham.
Authorities say that accident claimed the life of 17-year-old Thomas Overbeck, a junior from Dieterich High School.
They say the accident happened on highway 33 between Dieterich and Effingham, near Bishop Road.
Authorities say Overbeck was traveling west on highway 33 when for an unknown reason he crossed into the eastbound lane.
An oncoming tractor-trailer then swerved to avoid hitting Overbeck, but the two collided head on.
Authorities say the accident is under investigation.
Funeral arrangements are pending.