Milk tanker rollover closed I-196 ramp in Grand Rapids

A milk tanker overturned and spilled its cargo Tuesday, Oct. 6, closing an I-196 entrance ramp in Grand Rapids for hours.

A Grand Rapids Fire Department spokesperson said the tanker was northbound on College Avenue when it rolled while turning onto the entrance ramp. Michigan State Police said the truck was following a posted detour to reach northbound U.S. 131.

A hazardous materials team responded as milk leaked onto the road. Michigan State Police reported no injuries.

The ramp remained closed during cleanup and reopened after 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Michigan truck safety rules on turns and ramps

Drivers must determine that a turn can be made safely and give the required signal under MCL 257.648. Michigan Legal Center’s explanation of truck turning duties in Michigan describes why the extra room a semi needs doesn't excuse a driver's obligations to determine if a turn is safe and signal before turning.

Michigan’s basic speed law also requires a careful, reasonable speed for traffic, the road’s surface and width and other conditions. The Michigan Commercial Driver License Manual warns that liquid tankers can overturn even at posted curve speeds because much of their load sits high above the road. It instructs drivers to take highway and ramp curves well below those speeds.

Get help from Michigan Legal Center

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

If you were injured in a tanker or other commercial truck crash, contact Michigan Legal Center to discuss whether Michigan Legal Center can help.

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

Learn more about Michigan Legal Center’s help with Michigan truck accident claims.