Berrien Co., MI – Fatal Semi-Truck Crash Shuts Down I-94 Near State Line

Berrien Co., MI (March 25, 2025) - A deadly crash involving two semi-trucks shut down part of Interstate 94 in Berrien County on the afternoon of March 24. The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m., just north of the Michigan state line.

Authorities reported that an eastbound semi-truck veered off course, crossed the cable barriers separating traffic, and collided head-on with a westbound semi and trailer. The impact of the crash was severe, and the eastbound driver—identified as a man from Livonia—was pronounced dead at the scene.

The second semi-truck driver was not injured in the collision. Emergency crews and investigators from the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office responded, closing both directions of I-94 for several hours as they worked to clear the wreckage and conduct a detailed investigation. As of now, the interstate has reopened, but the crash remains under investigation by local authorities to determine the contributing factors.

We extend our condolences to the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time.

Truck Accidents in Michigan

Commercial truck accidents remain among the most serious types of collisions on Michigan roadways. In 2022 alone, Michigan recorded thousands of crashes involving large trucks, many resulting in fatalities or severe injuries. Their size and weight make them far more dangerous in the event of a crash, especially on interstates like I-94.

It’s important to understand the unique risks tied to these types of crashes. Below are some critical contributing factors specific to semi-truck collisions:

• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often face long hours behind the wheel. Despite regulations, fatigue is a major factor in many accidents, slowing reaction times and impairing judgment during critical moments.
• Equipment Failure: Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their fleets, but brakes, tires, and steering systems can still fail. When a mechanical issue causes a crash, multiple parties may be liable—including the maintenance provider or parts manufacturer.
• Overloaded or Unsecured Cargo: If a trailer is improperly loaded, it can shift during transit and throw the truck off balance. This can lead to rollovers or loss of control—especially on high-speed roads.
• Weather and Road Conditions: Michigan’s unpredictable weather creates challenging driving environments for all motorists. For semi-trucks, icy or wet roads make braking harder and increase stopping distances.
• Limited Visibility and Blind Spots: Truck drivers cannot always see vehicles directly beside or behind them. Accidents frequently happen when cars linger in these blind spots, especially during lane changes or merging traffic.

If your family has been impacted by a truck crash that claimed the life of a loved one, it’s vital to speak with a Berrien County wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. Trucking companies begin their investigations quickly, and victims deserve a team just as committed to protecting their interests. An experienced attorney will ensure all relevant evidence—like maintenance records and dashcam footage—is preserved and used to build a strong case.

At Christopher Trainor & Associates, we understand how overwhelming life becomes after a tragic crash. Our team has helped thousands of families across Michigan fight for justice after serious accidents involving commercial trucks. We’ve recovered over $250 million on behalf of our clients, and we know how to handle powerful opponents like trucking companies and insurers. Call us at (248) 886-8650 for a free consultation today. If you're searching online for a personal injury law firm near me, you can trust our team to stand by your side.

Note: Our firm utilized outside sources when creating this post. We have not independently verified the facts regarding this accident. If you find information that is incorrect, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates immediately so that we correct the post to reflect the most accurate information available about the accident. This post can be removed upon request.  

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. The photograph used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene. This post is not a solicitation for business.