Hull, IA (February 11, 2025) – Three people were injured in a serious two-vehicle collision at the north intersection of Highways 75 and 18, approximately two miles northwest of Hull, on Sunday morning. The accident occurred around 11:45 a.m. and involved two vehicles that both sustained significant damage.
According to the Iowa State Patrol, 83-year-old James Arden Kooima of Rock Valley was driving north in a 2019 Buick Envision when he attempted to make a left turn. During the turn, his vehicle collided with a southbound 2018 Ford Edge driven by 67-year-old Gaylene Marie Hultman of Cherokee. The impact caused Kooima’s vehicle to roll over once before coming to rest in the southwest corner of the intersection. Hultman’s vehicle also came to rest in the same area following the collision.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene to provide medical assistance. James Kooima was transported to Hegg Health Center in Rock Valley for treatment, while Gaylene Hultman was taken to Sioux Center Health. Margene Kooima, an 83-year-old passenger in James Kooima’s vehicle, sustained more serious injuries and was airlifted to Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.
Both vehicles were totaled as a result of the crash. The intersection remained partially closed while emergency crews managed the scene and cleared the wreckage. Authorities are actively investigating the cause of the collision, including reviewing whether right-of-way or other contributing factors played a role.
Our thoughts are with the injured individuals, and we hope for their swift and full recovery.
Intersection Collisions in Iowa
The recent two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highways 75 and 18 near Hull underscores the risks associated with navigating intersections, particularly on high-speed rural highways. Intersections are among the most common sites for collisions, often due to driver misjudgment, failure to yield, or distractions. In rural areas, intersections can be especially dangerous due to higher travel speeds, reduced visibility, and fewer traffic control devices.
In this case, the collision involved a vehicle attempting a left turn across oncoming traffic, a common scenario that frequently leads to serious accidents. Left-turn collisions often occur when drivers misjudge the speed or distance of approaching vehicles or when road conditions or environmental factors compromise visibility.
Drivers in Iowa can reduce their risk of intersection accidents by exercising caution when approaching intersections, obeying all traffic signals and signs, and practicing defensive driving techniques. It is particularly important to carefully assess oncoming traffic before making turns and to avoid distractions such as mobile devices while driving.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an intersection collision, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries do not appear severe. Conditions such as concussions, internal trauma, or soft tissue injuries may not present symptoms right away. Additionally, documenting the accident scene, gathering witness statements, and consulting with legal or insurance professionals can help protect your rights and support your recovery process.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, Local Accident Reports is here to provide the resources and support you need. From connecting you with medical professionals to offering legal guidance, we are dedicated to helping you through every step of your recovery. Contact Local Accident Reports today to learn how we can assist you during this challenging time.