How Common Are Semi-Truck Accidents in Michigan?

Wrecks involving commercial trucks are a deadly and tragic reality for American motorists. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, a total of 4,354 people died in large truck crashes on America’s roads in 2023.

Not every state experiences these accidents with the same frequency. Some states experience a high number of truck crashes each year, while others report very few. According to the Michigan State Police’s latest traffic crash summary, there were 15,068 commercial motor vehicle-involved crashes in 2023, which is down 5% from 2022. Of those crashes, 103 resulted in fatalities.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents

While the state of Michigan doesn’t have statistics specific to accidents exclusively involving commercial trucks, their 2023 End of the Year report highlights the following as the most common crash types (excluding single motor vehicle crashes):

• Rear end (63,291)
• Angle (44,567)
• Sideswipe-same (38,200)

Angle crash types also resulted in the highest number of fatalities.

The same report also highlights that the most common hazardous actions taken by other drivers include:

• Unable to stop (57,513)
• Failing to yield (46,434)
• Speeding (21,535)

Speeding resulted in the most fatalities.

The loss of a life is always concerning. Drivers should remain alert and exercise caution when driving around semi-trucks, especially for those who spend a significant amount of time on the road.

For those who spend a significant amount of time on the road, understanding the risks associated with large vehicles is crucial; learn more about how to safeguard yourself from trucking accidents in our detailed guide.

What to Do After a Semi-Truck Accident

1. Seek medical care immediately for yourself and any other injured parties.
2. If you are able to, request contact information from any eyewitnesses and take photographs of the scene.
3. File a report with the police. When you speak to the police, never admit fault.
4. Write down what happened from your perspective as soon as you can.
5. Contact a truck accident lawyer, especially before you file any claim.

Request a Free Case Evaluation Today

If you or a loved one were involved in an injury or fatal truck wreck involving a commercial vehicle, Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys is ready to fight for you. We provide aggressive legal representation to individuals and families throughout Michigan and have extensive trial experience. Request a free case evaluation with one of our attorneys today.