U-Haul trucks are a familiar sight across Michigan, from student moves in East Lansing to relocations along I94 and I75. With thousands of do it yourself movers on the road every week, these trucks are part of everyday life. However, when inexperienced drivers operate large vehicles or when maintenance issues arise, the risk of a serious crash increases.
According to federal transportation data, rental and moving trucks are involved in more than 20,000 crashes nationwide each year. Many incidents involve tire blowouts, brake problems, or driver inexperience. U-Haul operates one of the largest rental fleets in the country, and its vehicles often log hundreds of thousands of miles before retirement.
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision involving a U-Haul truck or trailer, The Clark Law Office can help. Our attorneys know how to investigate rental vehicle accidents, reviewing maintenance, inspection, and rental records to uncover evidence of negligence. We fight to protect the rights of Michigan accident victims and pursue full compensation for their injuries.
U-Haul Fleet Snapshot
U-Haul operates one of the largest commercial vehicle fleets in North America, with more than 190,000 trucks and vans available for rent. In Michigan, these vehicles are used by students, families, and businesses for local and long distance moves. While the company provides accessible transportation options, its model presents challenges because vehicles are rented to the general public without specialized training.
Unlike professional trucking fleets, U-Haul relies on ordinary drivers who may not understand how large vehicles handle under heavy loads. The trucks are used daily, often re-rented within hours of return. When inspections are missed or repairs delayed, worn tires, brake issues, or steering problems may contribute to accidents.
| ⚙️ Category | 📊 Details |
|---|---|
| 🚚 Fleet Type | Light and medium duty moving trucks ranging from 10 to 26 feet |
| 🏢 Operating Structure | Privately owned rental fleet with vehicles rotated among franchises and independent dealers |
| 🕐 Driver Pressure Points | Inexperienced renters, lack of training, fatigue from long moving days |
| ⚠️ Common Violations | Tire blowouts, brake failure, overloading, and poor vehicle inspections |
| 💡 Key Legal Challenge | Determining whether U-Haul is directly liable for maintenance failure or whether the renter’s negligence caused the crash |
The Clark Law Office investigates maintenance and inspection records, rental agreements, and state safety data to determine whether vehicle condition or company procedures played a role in a crash.
Common U-Haul Truck Accident Scenarios
U-Haul vehicles are used for many purposes, from local errands to long one way trips. Accidents can result from driver error, mechanical issues, or improper loading. Similar risks appear in other moving and rental truck cases across Michigan.
Common U-Haul accident scenarios include:
- Driver Inexperience and Poor Handling
Large trucks require longer stopping distances and wider turns. Drivers unfamiliar with these limits sometimes misjudge space or speed. - Mechanical Problems
Brake or tire defects can cause a loss of control. Issues may arise when vehicles undergo heavy use without adequate inspection. - Overloaded or Improperly Secured Cargo
Shifting or excessive cargo weight can cause a vehicle to sway, tip, or lose stability during turns. - Trailer and Tow Behind Incidents
Improperly attached trailers can create fishtailing or detachment hazards, particularly on highways. - Driver Fatigue on Long Routes
Many renters travel for extended periods without rest, leading to slowed reaction times and fatigue related collisions. - Limited Safety Features
Some older rental trucks lack rear cameras or modern sensors, increasing risks in parking lots or crowded areas.
The Clark Law Office reviews every aspect of these crashes, from maintenance logs to driver statements, to determine whether a mechanical issue, rental practice, or operator error contributed to the accident.
Who Can Be Held Liable After a U-Haul Truck Crash
Responsibility after a U-Haul accident can extend to several parties, including the driver, the rental company, mechanics, or even component manufacturers. Liability depends on the cause of the crash and the facts surrounding the rental.
If a vehicle defect or maintenance failure is proven, the company responsible for inspections may share blame. If the renter overloaded or misused the vehicle, their conduct could also be a factor. Determining fault requires a full review of records, agreements, and physical evidence.
| 🧾 Potentially Liable Party | ⚖️ Role in the Accident |
|---|---|
| U-Haul International or Local Franchise | Responsible for maintaining safe rental vehicles and ensuring they meet inspection standards. |
| The Renter or Driver | Liable for negligence such as speeding, fatigue, overloading, or unsafe driving practices. |
| Maintenance or Repair Contractor | May be at fault for performing inadequate repairs or inspections. |
| Parts or Equipment Manufacturer | Liable for defective components such as tires, brakes, or steering systems. |
| Other Negligent Motorists | Drivers who collide with or cut off a U-Haul truck may share liability for the crash. |
The Clark Law Office examines rental contracts, inspection histories, and state safety filings to identify all contributing causes. Our attorneys use this information to build strong claims and ensure victims receive fair compensation.
Crash Scenario: U-Haul Truck Involved in Multi Vehicle Collision Near Jackson
A Michigan family rented a 20 foot U-Haul truck to move from Jackson to Kalamazoo. During the trip, the brakes reportedly became soft while traveling downhill on I94. The vehicle struck several stopped cars, causing multiple injuries and scattering cargo across the road.
An investigation later showed the truck had recently been returned by another customer who mentioned brake issues. If maintenance or inspection was delayed, that could have contributed to the mechanical failure. The case highlights how heavy use and limited downtime can increase risk if inspection procedures are not followed carefully.
💡 Clark Insight: In rental truck cases, we review service records, customer reports, and inspection logs to determine whether a mechanical issue was known before a crash occurred. Demonstrating prior notice of a safety concern can greatly strengthen a victim’s claim.
What to Do After a U-Haul Truck Accident
Collisions involving U-Haul trucks can be complex because key evidence may disappear quickly. Taking the right steps immediately helps protect your rights.
Steps to take after a U-Haul accident in Michigan:
- Seek medical attention right away. Even minor pain can signal a more serious injury.
- Call the police and ensure the report identifies the truck as a U-Haul vehicle.
- Take photographs of the scene and vehicle condition. Include visible wear, fluids, or tire damage.
- Gather driver, renter, and witness information.
- Avoid discussing the accident with U-Haul representatives or insurers. Let your attorney handle communication.
- Contact an experienced Michigan truck accident lawyer. A legal team can request inspection and maintenance data before it is lost.
The Clark Law Office acts quickly to secure maintenance reports, black box data, and communication records related to the rental. Preserving this evidence can make a decisive difference in the outcome of your case.
Why Legal Help Matters After a U-Haul Truck Accident
U-Haul’s national network and rental model create complex liability questions after a crash. Victims often face limited insurance coverage and conflicting statements about responsibility. Without an attorney, it can be difficult to uncover who is legally accountable.
Our attorneys have handled complex fleet and rental vehicle cases throughout Michigan. We analyze inspection records, rental policies, and internal procedures to identify negligence that may have contributed to your injuries. When companies or contractors fail to maintain safe vehicles, we ensure they are held accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions About U-Haul Truck Accidents
Are U-Haul truck accidents common in Michigan?
Yes. U-Haul vehicles are involved in crashes across the state every year, especially in college towns like East Lansing and Ann Arbor and along major moving routes such as I96, I94, and US127. Many of these accidents involve inexperienced drivers or trucks with mechanical issues.
Who is responsible for a U-Haul truck accident?
Liability depends on the cause. If the crash resulted from poor driving or overloading, the renter may be at fault. If the truck had mechanical issues, faulty brakes, or worn tires, U-Haul or its franchise operator could share responsibility.
Does U-Haul have insurance that covers accidents?
U-Haul offers optional coverage, but it often has strict limits and exclusions. In many cases, renters are surprised to learn they are personally responsible for damages or injuries. A lawyer can help identify all available sources of compensation.
What if the U-Haul truck was unsafe or not properly maintained?
You may have a valid negligence or product liability claim. Rental companies have a duty to inspect and maintain their vehicles. If a mechanical failure caused your crash, U-Haul can be held accountable for renting an unsafe truck.
Can passengers or other drivers file claims after a U-Haul crash?
Yes. Anyone injured by a negligent U-Haul driver, including pedestrians, bicyclists, or occupants of another vehicle, can pursue a claim for compensation.
How do I prove U-Haul was negligent?
Your attorney can obtain rental records, inspection reports, and prior customer complaints showing that the company knew about the vehicle’s defects. This evidence is key to proving negligence in court.
What damages can I recover after a U-Haul accident?
Victims may recover compensation for medical costs, rehabilitation, lost income, pain and suffering, and long term disability. Property damage and future medical care are also recoverable in serious cases.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Michigan, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally three years from the date of the crash. However, it is critical to act quickly because U-Haul’s maintenance and rental records may be deleted or lost over time.
Recent U-Haul Truck Accident News
U-Haul vehicles are involved in serious crashes nationwide each year. These incidents often include driver inexperience, mechanical issues, or improper loading, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and training for safe operation.
| 🚚 U-Haul Crash Reports | 🗓️ Date | 📰 Source |
|---|---|---|
| U-Haul truck rams police vehicle, crashes into tree after home invasion | October 14, 2025 | Mlive |
| U-Haul trucks smashed through Detroit, Royal Oak Township businesses | September 15, 2025 | Fox2Detroit |
| Driver killed in crash on Lodge Freeway in Detroit | October 2, 2023 | CBS News |
Other Moving and Rental Truck Accidents We Handle
Rented box trucks share similar risks across many brands. Learn more about:
- Claims involving Ryder rental trucks.
- Liability cases tied to Penske moving vehicles.
- Coverage disputes after Budget truck collisions.
- Neighborhood crashes involving Enterprise rental trucks.
- Home improvement transport incidents linked to Home Depot vehicles.
- Local hauling accidents with Lowes rental trucks.
Disclaimer: The Clark Law Office is not affiliated with or endorsed by U-Haul International, Inc. References to U-Haul are made solely for informational purposes regarding rental truck accident cases.