Man killed, four injured in I-96 crash in Ionia County

A 77-year-old Greenville man died and four people were injured in a three-vehicle crash involving a semitruck Saturday, Oct. 31.

Michigan State Police said the crash happened around 12:30 p.m. on eastbound I-96 in Boston Township in Ionia County.

A semitruck driver failed to stop for traffic at a standstill and hit a Chrysler Pacifica from behind, pushing it into a Ram pickup, troopers said.

The Pacifica driver died at the scene. His front-seat passenger, a 63-year-old Greenville woman, suffered critical but non-life-threatening injuries. Three other passengers between both vehicles suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries and were hospitalized.

Everyone involved wore seat belts. Alcohol and drugs did not appear to be factors, but investigators said speed appeared to contribute.

Eastbound I-96 closed for several hours while troopers investigated and crews cleared the scene. The investigation remains ongoing.

“It’s up to the motorist to pay attention, follow the rules and drive per conditions at all times,” John Richard, a Michigan Department of Transportation spokesperson.

Michigan speed limits and stopping duties for semitrucks

Michigan's basic speed law requires drivers to stay at a careful, reasonable speed for traffic and road conditions and to be able to stop within the clear distance ahead. Driving at or below the posted limit can still violate that rule when conditions require a slower speed.

Semitrucks also have a lower limit on some highways. On limited access freeways and state trunk line highways posted above 65 mph, truck-tractors and trucks with a gross weight of at least 10,000 pounds may not exceed 65 mph. A lower posted limit still controls.

Establishing how fast a vehicle was moving can require more than a driver's estimate. Michigan Legal Center's guide to proving speed and fault explains how vehicle data, video and reconstruction can help show whether unsafe speed contributed to a collision.

Get help from Michigan Legal Center

Michigan Legal Center: the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates handles truck accident, serious injury and wrongful death claims.

If you or a family member was hurt in a Michigan truck crash, contact Michigan Legal Center to ask whether Michigan Legal Center can help with your situation.

There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered for you. Case costs and fee terms are governed by the written fee agreement.