Commerce Township, MI (September 8, 2025) – A tragic three-car crash occurred on Friday evening on Pontiac Trail at Martin Parkway in Commerce Township, resulting in the fatal injury of a 30-year-old man from Waterford Township. According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred at approximately 7:40 p.m. when Matthew John Szakal, the driver of a 2017 Chevrolet Trax, was struck by a 2021 Lexus RC, driven by a 51-year-old man from Sterling Heights.
Authorities say the Lexus was traveling north on M-5 when the driver lost control, veering off the roadway and traveling several hundred feet through tall grass and weeds. The vehicle re-entered the road, jumped the curb in a roundabout, and struck Szakal’s Chevrolet. The impact pushed Szakal’s vehicle into a third vehicle, a 2021 Honda CR-V, operated by a 64-year-old woman from Wixom.
The Honda driver, who was wearing a seatbelt, sustained minor injuries. Szakal, also wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Lexus sustained serious injuries and was taken into custody. It is believed that excessive speed and alcohol use were factors in the crash. A search warrant was obtained to test the Lexus driver’s blood for intoxicants.
The incident remains under investigation by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit.
Our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragic accident, and we extend our deepest condolences to those who have lost a loved one.
The Impact of Speed and Alcohol in Traffic Collisions
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of excessive speed and impaired driving. Crashes involving high-speed vehicles, especially when alcohol is a factor, often result in severe injuries or fatalities, as seen in this case. It is crucial for all drivers to remain aware of their speed and the potential consequences of impaired driving.
Impaired driving is a leading cause of traffic fatalities and injuries. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can slow reaction times, impair judgment, and reduce the ability to control the vehicle. In this case, the driver’s loss of control and the subsequent crash could have been avoided if alcohol and speed were not factors.
To prevent such accidents, drivers are encouraged to obey posted speed limits, avoid driving under the influence, and make sure their vehicles are in good working order.
If you or someone you know is affected by an accident caused by impaired driving, seeking legal assistance can help ensure that justice is served and that victims receive fair compensation for their losses.
If you need further assistance or have questions regarding legal matters or the claims process, feel free to reach out to Local Accident Reports for support.
