Steffan Mick Killed in Truck Accident in Midland County, TX

Midland, TX — January 27, 2025, Steffan Mick was killed in a truck accident at about 6:40 p.m. on F.M. 307 near Interstate 20.

Authorities said a 2016 Peterbilt semi-truck was traveling west on F.M. 307 when it turned left in front of a 2001 Chevrolet Suburban, causing a crash.

Chevrolet driver Robert Steffan Mick, 29, died at the scene of the crash, according to authorities. The truck driver was not injured.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the Midland County crash at this time.

The accident is still under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a semi-truck turns left across traffic, the law requires the driver to ensure the turn can be completed safely. The collision in Midland raises important legal questions about whether the truck driver had enough time and space to turn, and whether any other factors contributed to the crash.

One of the first things investigators should determine is whether the truck driver properly judged the speed and distance of the approaching Suburban. Semi-trucks take longer to clear an intersection than passenger vehicles, meaning any miscalculation can leave oncoming drivers with little or no chance to avoid a crash. Reviewing skid marks, impact points and witness statements can help establish whether the Suburban had a reasonable opportunity to react.

Visibility is another important factor. Investigators should assess whether anything obstructed the truck driver’s view or prevented the Suburban driver from seeing the truck in time. Poor lighting, road design or other vehicles could have played a role in limiting visibility for either driver. Additionally, the truck’s headlights, turn signals and reflective markings should be examined to confirm they were functioning properly.

The truck’s speed and movement at the time of the crash are also critical. Data from the truck’s engine control module (ECM) can show whether the truck was slowing properly before turning or if the driver hesitated mid-turn, increasing the risk of a collision.

Left-turn crashes often appear straightforward, but they require a deeper investigation to determine whether the turn was executed safely. A full review of visibility, driver decisions and vehicle data is necessary to understand what happened and whether the truck driver met their legal duty to yield to oncoming traffic.