Driver Arrested After I-75 Trooper Crash in Oakland County
Royal Oak, MI — A semi-truck driver faces charges of reckless driving following a collision that injured a Michigan State Police trooper on Interstate 75 early Thursday morning. The crash, which occurred near the 11 Mile Road ramp in Oakland County, underscores the dangers of risky driving behaviors near emergency responders.
According to Michigan State Police, the incident unfolded around 12:05 a.m. as troopers were investigating an earlier crash on the southbound side of I-75. Parked on the left shoulder and lane with their emergency lights activated, the troopers were speaking with the drivers involved in the initial accident.
Semi-Truck Loses Control
As traffic slowed due to the investigation, the semi-truck driver attempted to bypass the congestion by entering the left lane. Upon noticing the troopers and their vehicles, the driver tried to brake but lost control of the truck. This caused a catastrophic chain reaction, with the semi-truck crashing into a patrol car and pushing it 100 yards into the back of another state police vehicle that had a trooper inside.
The semi continued sliding dangerously close to the other two troopers before colliding with a third vehicle involved in the initial crash. Fortunately, the two troopers on foot managed to avoid being struck by leaping over the median wall.
The trooper inside the patrol car was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries and has since been released.
Arrest and Public Safety Concerns
The semi-truck driver was arrested at the scene and charged with reckless driving. Michigan State Police First Lt. Mike Shaw highlighted the incident as a stark reminder of the importance of safe driving near emergency vehicles.
“This incident had everything we’ve been warning about — reckless driving, excessive speed, and failing to move over for emergency responders,” Lt. Shaw stated. “Additionally, pedestrians were found on freeway ramps trying to take photos for social media, creating further safety risks. We urge drivers to slow down, move over, and refrain from walking on highways.”
Compensation for Victims
For victims of crashes like this, compensation can cover a range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma. Injured parties have the right to seek justice against negligent drivers who fail to prioritize safety on the road.
At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll such incidents can take. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping accident victims navigate the legal process and secure the compensation they deserve. We work tirelessly to hold reckless drivers accountable and ensure our clients receive the support they need to recover.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, we are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist in pursuing justice.
Conclusion
This unfortunate incident on I-75 serves as a reminder of the importance of driver awareness and adherence to safety laws, especially when emergency responders are on the scene. As we advocate for safer roads, let’s also remember the role we all play in preventing such tragedies.
Call us for a free and confidential case evaluation. We are available by phone, text, and online chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC for corrections if you identify any inaccuracies. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
Source: PATCH
