Madison, Nebraska (March 24, 2026) – A 28-year-old man was critically injured in a crash on Friday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 81 and Highway 32 on the east side of Madison. The collision occurred around 2:40 p.m.
Authorities said William Bermel of Norfolk was driving a GMC Sierra and had stopped on Highway 32 while attempting to turn left onto northbound Highway 81. As the pickup entered the intersection, it was struck on the driver’s side by a southbound semi-truck.
The impact caused Bermel to be ejected from the vehicle, and the pickup came to rest in a nearby ditch. The semi then crossed into the opposite lanes and entered a ditch, where it struck several unattended vehicles in a nearby parking area. Bermel was airlifted to a hospital in Omaha with critical injuries. The semi driver was evaluated at the scene and released without reported injuries.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
What Happens During Intersection Collisions Involving Large Trucks
Crashes at intersections involving large trucks can result in significant damage due to the size and weight of the vehicles. When a smaller vehicle enters the path of a moving truck, the impact can be severe.
The force of a collision may cause vehicles to be pushed off the roadway or into nearby areas. Secondary impacts can also occur if a truck continues moving after the initial crash.
Driver timing, visibility, and roadway layout all influence these situations. Intersections where highways meet can be especially active, increasing the chances of a collision.
