Dubuque County, IA — January 24, 2025, Maria Graziano was killed in a truck accident at about 9 p.m. at U.S. Route 151 and Monastery Road.
Authorities said a 2016 Nissan Juke was heading west when it apparently failed to stop at the intersection. The car was hit by a northbound semi-truck.
Mariadivina Victoria “Maria” Graziano, 25, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, according to authorities.
Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash at this time. The accident is still under investigation.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When a crash occurs at an intersection involving a passenger vehicle and a semi-truck, the key question investigators must address is, “Why didn’t the vehicle stop?” While the details about this collision are limited, crashes like this often involve multiple factors that deserve careful consideration.
Investigators should consider the condition of the Nissan Juke involved in the crash. Mechanical failures, such as brake or steering issues, could explain why the vehicle didn’t stop. A thorough inspection of the car will help rule out or confirm such possibilities.
The condition of the intersection itself also warrants close examination. Was the intersection clearly marked with proper signage, lighting, or signals? Rural or less-traveled intersections can sometimes lack adequate warnings, making it difficult for drivers to anticipate or react in time. If visibility was limited — due to weather, poor lighting or obstructed signage — it’s worth asking whether improvements could make the area safer.
The role of the semi-truck and its driver must also be considered. Investigators will need to determine whether the truck was traveling at a safe speed for the conditions and whether the driver had enough time to react. Data from the truck’s engine control module (ECM) and dashcam footage, if available, can provide insight into how the truck was being operated and the driver’s actions leading up to the crash.
Environmental factors, such as weather and road conditions, should also be evaluated. Was the pavement slick from rain or ice? Were there any curves or obstructions on Monastery Road or U.S. Route 151 that might have limited visibility for either driver? These details are essential to understanding whether external conditions contributed to the crash.
This crash underscores the need for a thorough investigation that looks beyond surface-level details to determine what caused the collision. By examining the drivers’ actions, vehicle conditions and the intersection’s design, authorities can uncover the full story for the family affected by this crash.
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