Union County, OH — February 27, 2025, One person was injured following a car accident that occurred at around 12:51 A.M. on State Route 37.
An investigation is underway into a car accident that left one person injured during the early-morning hours of February 27th. According to official reports, a Ford Explorer operated by a teen driver was travelling on State Route 37 in the eastbound lanes when for unknown reasons the vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree, ejecting the driver in the process.
When first responders arrived on the scene they found that the driver had sustained serious injuries and they were transported to the hospital for treatment. At this time it remains unknown what caused the vehicle to go off-road, and there has been no update on the status of the driver’s injuries, however this is an ongoing investigation and more details may be released in the future.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When people hear about a single-vehicle crash, especially one involving a young driver, they often assume that inexperience or distraction was the cause. While that’s certainly a possibility, my experience tells me that these crashes can be more complex than they first appear. Instead of making assumptions, it’s important to let the evidence guide the investigation. To do that, there are three key questions that need to be asked.
First, did the authorities conduct a thorough investigation? Law enforcement typically documents the crash scene, takes photos, and assesses factors such as road conditions, weather, and possible witness statements. However, their ability to fully reconstruct a crash depends on their training and resources, which can vary from department to department. If investigators don’t have the tools or time to conduct a detailed review, further expert analysis may be necessary.
Second, has anyone considered whether a vehicle defect contributed to the crash? Certain SUVs, including some Ford Explorer models, have been associated with stability concerns that can make them more prone to rollovers or loss of control. Additionally, mechanical failures—such as brake malfunctions, steering issues, or electronic stability control failures—could have contributed to the crash. Identifying these issues requires a forensic examination of the vehicle, but too often, cars are removed or scrapped before such an analysis can take place. Preserving access to the vehicle is crucial to determining whether a defect played a role.
Finally, has all the available electronic data been collected? Most modern vehicles, including the Ford Explorer, are equipped with an electronic control module (ECM), commonly referred to as the vehicle’s “black box.” This device records key crash data, such as speed, braking, and steering inputs in the moments leading up to the crash. Additionally, surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras could provide valuable insights. If investigators haven’t secured this data quickly, there’s a risk it could be lost or overwritten.
At the end of the day, answering these questions isn’t just about understanding what happened—it’s about ensuring that every possible explanation is considered. When a crash results in serious injuries, the least the community can do is make sure no stone is left unturned in the search for answers.
