Hutchinson, MN — February 11, 2025, One person was killed following an 18-wheeler accident that occurred at around 12:45 A.M. on Highway 15.

An investigation is underway following an 18-wheeler accident that left one person dead during the early morning hours of February 11th. According to official reports, an 18-wheeler was traveling on Highway 15 when for unknown reasons the truck lost control while approaching a curve and struck a tree causing serious damage to the tractor-trailer.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that the driver had sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased. At this time the reason the truck lost control remains unknown, and the identity of the driver has not been released by authorities, however this accident remains under investigation and more details may be released in the future.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I hear about a crash like this, my first thought is that I hope investigators are able to determine exactly what happened. While it may seem like a single-vehicle crash involving an 18-wheeler is a case of driver error, experience has taught me that these incidents are often far more complex. To get a full picture of what led to this crash, three critical questions must be asked.

The first question is whether authorities are conducting a thorough investigation. Law enforcement officers do their best with the resources they have, but not all departments have the specialized training necessary for commercial truck accident investigations. Given that the truck lost control while approaching a curve, investigators should examine factors such as road conditions, signage, and whether any external influences—like another vehicle or an obstacle—played a role. Additionally, the truck's cargo load and distribution should be analyzed, as improperly loaded freight can affect a truck's stability, particularly on curves.

The second question is whether anyone has considered the possibility of a vehicle defect. While many assume that losing control of a truck is solely a matter of driver error, mechanical failures—such as brake malfunctions, steering issues, or even tire blowouts—are common contributors to crashes. Given the severity of this accident, it is essential to determine whether the truck’s safety systems functioned properly. The trucking industry is heavily regulated, but that doesn't mean maintenance issues and defects don’t slip through the cracks. Unfortunately, unless someone actively investigates these possibilities, they are often overlooked, and if the truck is quickly disposed of, crucial evidence could be lost forever.

The third question is whether all electronic data related to the crash has been collected. Commercial trucks are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) that store critical data, such as speed, braking, and engine performance in the moments leading up to a crash. This information can help determine whether mechanical issues played a role or whether the driver took evasive action before impact. Additionally, trucking companies often use GPS and onboard telematics systems that may provide further insight. Without this data, a complete understanding of what happened may never emerge.

At the end of the day, answering these questions isn’t just about determining liability—it’s about making sure the affected families and the community have the answers they deserve. A crash like this impacts more than just the driver; it serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that all potential factors, from road conditions to mechanical integrity, are thoroughly investigated. We owe it to those involved to make sure no detail is overlooked.