Oak Lawn Twp, MN (December 30, 2024) – A collision involving a 1997 Chevy Tahoe and a 2018 Ford F59 UPS truck occurred on Highway 18 at mile post 4, resulting in one person being transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The accident happened at approximately 6:42 PM yesterday. According to initial reports, the Chevy Tahoe was traveling eastbound and attempted to make a left turn into a driveway located at 13608 Highway 18. At the same time, the UPS truck, traveling westbound, continued forward, leading to the impact. Emergency responders, including North Memorial Ambulance and Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office, quickly arrived on the scene. Medics provided care to the injured victim, identified as Charles Einar Widmark, 68, of Brainerd, MN, who was transported to North Memorial for further treatment. The UPS truck’s driver, Michelle Leah Herbst, 50, also from Brainerd, was unharmed.
Both drivers were reported to have been wearing seat belts at the time of the crash, and airbags deployed in the Chevy Tahoe but not in the UPS truck. Alcohol was not a factor in the incident, and the circumstances of the collision remain under investigation by local authorities.
Our thoughts are with those impacted by this accident, and we hope for a swift recovery for the injured individual.
Car Accidents in Minnesota
Car accidents in Minnesota often involve a variety of contributing factors, including weather conditions, road designs, and driver behavior. According to state traffic reports, left-turn accidents are common and can frequently lead to serious injuries due to the complex nature of determining right-of-way at intersections or driveways.
In rural areas like Crow Wing County, higher speeds on state highways can increase the severity of such collisions. It’s essential for all drivers to remain vigilant and cautious when making turns, especially on high-speed roads. In this incident, the location of the crash on Highway 18 highlights the challenges of managing traffic flow in mixed residential and through-traffic areas.
Individuals involved in such accidents should seek medical care promptly, even if injuries appear minor, as conditions may worsen over time. Furthermore, understanding the legal process and insurance claims can be critical to ensuring that victims are fairly compensated for medical expenses and property damage.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports. If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.