Toledo’s position as a major transportation hub makes it especially prone to serious truck accidents.
The Ohio Department of Public Safety reports that in 2024, there were 404 crashes in Lucas County alone involving medium to heavy trucks. With I-75 cutting directly through downtown, I-475 looping around Rossford and Sylvania, and US-23 running through Maumee, our city sees constant commercial truck traffic moving goods across the Midwest.
Unfortunately, these busy corridors, along with intersections like Central Avenue at Upton Avenue and the congested Michigan and Superior Street area, are also hotspots for devastating crashes. Jackknife accidents, rollovers, and rear-end collisions are common in these zones where heavy truck traffic, tight interchanges, and sudden congestion create dangerous conditions for everyone on the road.
At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, we understand how these local accident trends impact residents every day. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck crash in one of these high-risk areas, knowing your rights and the steps to take afterward can make a crucial difference in your recovery. Contact us today to learn how we can help.
Common Truck Accident Types
As Toledo truck accident lawyers, we’ve seen and handled many types of truck accident cases for injured clients. Some of the most common we see in our practice include:
Underride Accidents
Underride collisions, which is where a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a large truck, are particularly lethal to people in passenger vehicles. In Toledo, these often occur on high-speed corridors like I-75 near the downtown interchange or I-475 approaching Rossford, where trucks may slow or stop unexpectedly.
Jackknife Accidents
These occur when a truck’s trailer swings out sideways, forming an angle with the cab. In Toledo, slick winter roads around US-20 (Woodville Road) and I-475 near the Windsor Park area are frequent sites for such crashes, since sudden deceleration can cause trailers to swing out.
Rollover Accidents
High-center-of-gravity trucks risk tipping over, especially when taking tight curves. The Dutch Ridge Road on/off-ramp to I-75 and electric alley interchanges near South Toledo are notorious for truck rollovers when drivers misjudge speed or load weight.
Wide-Turn Accidents
Due to their size, semi-trucks require extra room when turning right or left. Restrictions near downtown Toledo, particularly at Michigan Avenue/Superior Street and Fulton Street at Washington Street, can lead to collisions with adjacent vehicles or pedestrians when the turn isn’t executed carefully.
Rear-End Collisions
These happen when a truck strikes another vehicle from behind. Recurring trouble spots include high-congestion zones on I-75 northbound into downtown during evening rush hour, as well as at Toledo Expressway interchanges.
Intersection Collisions & Broadside (T-Bone) Crashes
At major junctions like Central Avenue at Upton Avenue and Navarre Avenue at Brintnall Avenue, truck drivers have limited visibility. Turning without yielding properly can result in catastrophic broadside crashes.
Steps to Take After a Toledo Truck Accident
The aftermath of a truck accident in Toledo can be extremely disorienting and painful. It can be difficult to think clearly during such a traumatic time, but taking these steps can make a big difference in your health and right to compensation.
Ensure Safety and Call 911
Check for injuries, move to safety, and alert Toledo EMS or Police. The Toledo Police Department (TPD) handles truck accident responses.
Document the Scene
- Take photos and videos of all vehicles, road conditions, signage, skid marks, and injuries.
- Record witness names and contact information.
- Gather truck identifiers: company names, DOT numbers, license plates, etc.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if injuries seem minor, symptoms and complications may emerge later.
Request and Preserve the Accident Report
Toledo Police incident reports typically become available at least five days after the crash. You can:
- Visit the TPD Safety Building, located at 525 N. Erie Street in Toledo, to request or pick up a copy of the accident report.
- Submit a Public Records Request via the TPD’s portal.
Obtain Crash Reports via Ohio’s Online System
Through the Ohio Crash Retrieval system (managed by the Ohio Department of Public Safety), you can access unofficial crash reports statewide, including Toledo and Lucas County.
Contact a Truck Accident Attorney Promptly
Truck cases involve complex regulations, from federal trucking laws to commercial liability insurance. Legal counsel can help preserve evidence (truck black box, Engine Control Module logs, etc.), interview witnesses, and ensure injury documentation is complete.
Where to Get Treatment for a Toledo Truck Accident
After a truck accident, quick access to quality medical care is vital. These Toledo facilities are equipped to handle trauma and emergency cases:
- Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center
Emergency Department located at 2213 Cherry Street, Toledo, OH 43608. Open 24/7. - Mercy Health – St. Anne Hospital
Emergency Department located at 3404 W. Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, OH 43623. Open 24/7. - University of Toledo Medical Center (UToledo Health)
Emergency Center at 3000 Arlington Avenue, Toledo, OH 43614. Central campus for trauma and specialized care. - ProMedica Toledo Hospital (Emergency Center)
Emergency Center located at 2142 N. Cove Blvd, Toledo, OH 43606. Open 24/7.
These hospitals are well-established and offer top-tier trauma services, imaging, and specialist care in the critical aftermath of a truck accident.
Contact Our Toledo Truck Accident Lawyers Today
Truck accidents are devastating from a physical, emotional, and financial standpoint. Not only are they often extremely violent and painful, but they can cause lasting mental health harm and put a financial burden on your family that you simply can’t handle out of pocket.
At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, it’s our goal to help you move forward with your life during this difficult time. Let us be your advocate as we build your claim and protect your rights against the insurance company every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re ready to get started on your case.
