Elkton Township, MN (November 21, 2024) – A collision involving a jackknifed Freightliner tractor and a Ford Bronco Sport occurred early Wednesday morning on eastbound I-94 near mile marker 16 in Clay County, leaving one person with non-life-threatening injuries.
The accident took place at approximately 5:25 AM when the Freightliner, driven by 38-year-old Don Vang of Saint Paul, jackknifed while traveling eastbound. A 2023 Ford Bronco Sport, also traveling eastbound, collided with the Freightliner in the aftermath. Emergency responders, including Barnesville Ambulance and Clay County officials, arrived swiftly to assist.
The driver of the Freightliner was uninjured in the crash and confirmed to have been wearing a seatbelt. The Bronco’s driver, Jim Towne of West Fargo, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported by Barnesville Ambulance for medical care. Towne was also wearing a seatbelt, and airbags in the Bronco deployed upon impact.
The crash disrupted morning traffic along I-94 as crews worked to clear the scene and investigate the cause of the incident. Authorities are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the Freightliner’s jackknifing and the subsequent collision.
Our thoughts are with Jim Towne and his family, and we wish him a full recovery.
Truck-Related Accidents in Minnesota
Minnesota’s interstates, like I-94, frequently serve as major trucking routes, facilitating the transportation of goods across the region. However, such roads are also prone to truck-related accidents, especially during inclement weather, on slippery surfaces, or in cases of mechanical failure.
Jackknifing, where a truck’s trailer swings out of alignment with its cab, is a particularly dangerous event that often results in multi-vehicle crashes. Situations like the collision near mile marker 16 on I-94 highlight the importance of defensive driving and adherence to safety protocols when sharing the road with large commercial vehicles.
While trucking companies and regulatory authorities work to minimize risks, accidents can still occur, leaving victims with physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Prompt medical attention and understanding legal options are critical steps for those affected.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck-related accident, Local Accident Reports is here to help. We connect victims with resources to support their recovery, including legal and medical assistance. Contact us today to learn more about how we can provide guidance during this difficult time.