Law Firm Secures $1 Million Settlement for Family of Truck Driver Killed in Highway Collision

A Minnesota law firm has successfully resolved a wrongful death lawsuit stemming from a fatal semi-truck collision, securing a $1 million settlement for the family of Dylan Robert Maas.

The accident occurred on September 20, 2023, on Minnesota Highway 30 in Watonwan County, involving two semi-trucks driven by Maas and Cody James Crowley. According to the Minnesota State Highway Patrol, Crowley failed to yield right of way, colliding with the driver's side of Maas's Freightliner and resulting in fatal injuries for both drivers.

The Fifth Judicial District Court formally approved the settlement, ordering that the funds be distributed equally among Maas's heirs. Randy Knutson, lead attorney at Knutson+Casey, described the incident as a 'tragic and preventable loss', noting that Crowley drove past rumble strips and a 'Stop Ahead' warning sign before running through a stop sign.

The settlement represents more than financial compensation, offering the family a sense of justice and an opportunity to begin the healing process after their devastating loss. It also highlights the critical importance of adhering to traffic safety protocols, particularly for commercial truck drivers operating large, potentially dangerous vehicles.

This case underscores the ongoing challenges of highway safety and the potential consequences of failing to follow established traffic regulations. The substantial settlement may serve as a deterrent, emphasizing the legal and financial risks associated with negligent driving.