Van Wert, OH — January 11, 2025, Adam Schulte and Marcus Mudd were injured in a truck accident at about noon at U.S. Route 224 and Van Wert-Decatur Road.

Authorities said a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado was struck by a 2023 Mack box truck that was headed east on U.S. 224. The impact forced the pickup off the north side of the highway.

Chevrolet driver Adam Schulte, 46, of Kettering suffered serious injuries in the crash, according to authorities. He was flown to an area hospital for treatment.

The box truck driver, Marcus Mudd, 53, of Fort Wayne, was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries, authorities said.

Authorities have not released any additional details about the crash, which remains under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

This crash raises questions about the actions of the drivers and the circumstances leading to the collision between a box truck and a pickup. The serious injuries sustained by the Chevrolet driver make it critical to understand what went wrong and whether it could have been avoided.

One area of focus is whether either driver failed to yield the right of way. Was one vehicle attempting to turn or cross the highway at the time of the crash? Intersections, particularly those without traffic signals or clear signage, are common sites for collisions when drivers misjudge speed or distance. Investigators will likely examine the intersection’s design and whether visibility played a role in the crash.

The speed and actions of the box truck driver are also important. Was the truck traveling at a speed appropriate for the intersection, and did the driver have enough time to see and react to the pickup? Commercial drivers are expected to exercise a higher duty of care due to the size and weight of their vehicles, which require greater stopping distances. Evidence such as skid marks, vehicle positions and any available traffic or dashcam footage will help clarify these details.

The condition of the vehicles may also come under scrutiny. Did the box truck’s braking or steering systems function properly, or did a mechanical issue contribute to the collision? Similarly, the investigation may look into whether the pickup’s position or movement left the box truck driver insufficient time to respond.

Finally, the intersection itself warrants examination. Was it equipped with clear signage or signals to guide drivers? Were there any obstructions, such as vegetation or poorly placed signs, that could have limited visibility? Rural intersections can be particularly dangerous if drivers are unfamiliar with the area or if road maintenance has been neglected.

For the injured parties, understanding the cause of this crash is essential. A thorough investigation will provide the answers needed to address accountability and identify measures to reduce the risk of similar incidents at this intersection in the future.