Green Oak Twp, MI — June 4, 2025, One person was killed following an accident with a striping truck at around 6:38 A.M. on Highway 23.

According to reports, a commercial truck used to paint roadways was traveling southbound on Highway 23 near Lee Road in a construction zone, when it crashed for unknown reasons, trapping the driver.

Emergency crews arrived on scene and extricated the driver and attempted life-saving measures, however they were ultimately pronounced deceased. The events that caused the accident are still under investigation, and officials have not released the identity of the driver.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a specialized commercial truck crashes in a construction zone with no immediate explanation, it raises serious questions that go far beyond the crash scene. The reports confirm that the driver was trapped and later died from their injuries, but they don’t tell us why the truck crashed in the first place. That’s the critical piece still missing.

Because this truck was used for painting roadways, we can assume it was likely moving at a reduced speed, especially in a construction zone. That makes the question of what caused the crash even more pressing. Was it driver distraction? A mechanical failure? Did something in the work zone—like misplaced cones, equipment, or debris—force the driver off course? Until those questions are answered, no one can say with certainty what went wrong.

The vehicle’s electronic control module (ECM) will be essential to this investigation. It can show the truck’s speed, braking, and steering inputs in the moments before the crash. If the truck had an in-cab camera system, that could give further context—whether the driver was reacting to something unexpected or struggling with the controls. Investigators should also look at work zone layout and signage. I’ve handled cases where poor traffic control contributed directly to crashes, especially in low-visibility or confusing setups.

Another angle worth exploring is the maintenance and inspection history of the vehicle. These paint trucks are often highly modified, with specialized systems installed on the chassis. Any failure—whether it’s a steering component, a brake line, or a loose attachment—could have serious consequences. I’ve seen firsthand how even a small oversight in equipment upkeep can lead to fatal outcomes.

Finally, the driver’s background and schedule need to be reviewed. Was the driver properly trained on how to operate this specific type of truck? Were they on shift for a reasonable amount of time? In a work zone, every small factor is amplified, and cutting corners—intentionally or not—can prove deadly.

The bottom line is this: until all the evidence is gathered and reviewed, we don’t have the full story. But if there’s accountability to be found, it won’t come from assumptions. It will come from asking the right questions and digging until we get answers.

Key Takeaways:

• The cause of the crash is still unknown and must be determined through a full investigation.
• ECM data and possible in-cab video may clarify whether driver actions or external factors were involved.
• Work zone layout, signage, and traffic control need to be evaluated as potential contributing factors.
• Mechanical failure or improper maintenance of a highly specialized truck should not be ruled out.
• Proper training and scheduling records will help assess whether the driver was equipped for the job.