Caledonia, WI – Man Killed in Late-Night Crash Involving Car and Semi on Northwestern Ave

Caledonia, WI (December 25, 2025) - The Village of Caledonia Police Department is investigating a fatal crash that claimed the life of a 31-year-old man on Tuesday, December 23, on Northwestern Avenue near Carol Road, just west of Interstate 94.

According to the Police Department, the collision occurred around 10 p.m. Preliminary information indicates the victim, a 31-year-old man from Racine, was traveling westbound on Northwestern Avenue when his vehicle collided with the rear of a slow-moving semi cab. 

Emergency responders arrived at the scene and found the driver of the passenger vehicle with fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The operator of the semi, a 41-year-old man from Illinois, was not injured and remained at the location, cooperating with the investigation. 

The crash remains under investigation, and officials have not released additional details regarding possible contributing factors.

Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Fatal Crashes Involving Commercial Vehicles in Racine County

Roadways near major interstates like I-94 often see a mix of passenger vehicles and commercial traffic, including semi-trucks traveling at reduced speeds or entering and exiting nearby routes.

Rear-end collisions involving large trucks can be especially severe, as differences in vehicle size and weight significantly increase the risk of fatal injuries. When a smaller vehicle strikes the rear of a semi cab or trailer, the force of impact is often absorbed by the passenger compartment, leaving occupants with little protection.

Weather conditions, such as rain, fog, or icy pavement, can further increase crash risks in these areas. Curves, intersections near on-ramps, and sudden changes in traffic flow can also contribute to serious collisions. These factors highlight the importance of attentive driving, proper lighting on commercial vehicles, and safe speeds near interstate corridors.

In Wisconsin, fatal crashes involving commercial vehicles frequently occur during nighttime hours, when reduced visibility and driver fatigue may play a role. According to statewide traffic safety data, a significant number of deadly crashes happen after dark, particularly on rural or semi-rural roadways where lighting is limited, and speed limits are higher. Drivers may also have difficulty judging the speed or distance of a slow-moving truck, especially if it lacks a trailer or reflective markings.

When a fatal crash occurs, surviving family members may face sudden emotional loss along with unexpected financial challenges, including funeral expenses and lost household income. Under Wisconsin law, families may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim if negligence or unsafe driving contributed to the collision. 

A wrongful death lawyer can help determine if negligence played a role, such as reckless driving, speeding, or vehicle maintenance issues. Compensation may be available for funeral costs, medical bills, lost income, and emotional suffering.

If you have lost a loved one in a head-on collision or have been injured in a similar crash, legal help is available. Speak with a caring legal professional at Dunk Law Firm to learn your rights. Call 414-209-4398 to schedule a consultation and get the support you need during this difficult time.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.