A Closer Look at the Semi Crash on Jonesville Rd. in Girard Township, MI

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Authorities are investigating a serious crash that occurred early Sunday morning at the intersection of Jonesville Road and North Fiske Road in Girard Township. According to officials, a 57-year-old woman from Florida was driving a semi-truck north on Fiske Road when she allegedly failed to stop at a posted stop sign. The semi entered the intersection and collided with a westbound Honda CR-V driven by a 43-year-old man from Litchfield, who was seriously injured and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

When crashes occur at intersections involving large commercial vehicles, investigators must look closely at both driver behavior and vehicle performance to determine why the truck allegedly did not stop as required. The difference in visibility, braking distance, and reaction time between a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle can make such incidents particularly severe.

Are Fatigue or Distraction Involved?

Authorities will likely evaluate whether driver fatigue or distraction contributed to the truck’s failure to stop. A lapse in focus, even for a few seconds, can cause a driver to miss critical traffic control signs, especially during early morning hours when fatigue can impair alertness. Investigators will likely review the driver’s hours-of-service logs, rest schedule, and any in-cab communication or phone activity to determine whether inattentiveness or exhaustion played a role.

What About Mechanical or Equipment Issues?

Mechanical issues can also lead to a failure to stop at an intersection. Investigators may inspect the semi-truck’s brake system, air pressure levels, and tire condition to rule out any maintenance-related factors. Faulty or poorly adjusted brakes, in particular, can increase stopping distance significantly in large vehicles, making it difficult for drivers to obey stop signs or respond to cross traffic in time.

Evidence That Should Be Reviewed

To fully understand the cause of the crash, investigators will analyze several key pieces of evidence. The truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) can reveal data on speed, brake application, and throttle position before the collision. Physical scene evidence can help confirm whether the driver attempted to stop. Additionally, witness statements and any nearby traffic or surveillance footage may help clarify whether the stop sign was missed or ignored.

The Importance of a Full Investigation

Determining whether this crash was caused by driver error, mechanical failure, or another contributing factor is essential for establishing accountability. A complete investigation ensures that the facts are clear and helps provide straightforward answers to those affected by this accident.