Rainy Lake Unorg, MN (December 18, 2024) – An accident occurred on County Road 332 at County Road 24 in Koochiching County, involving two vehicles. Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured driver. A 2013 Subaru Outback, driven by 71-year-old Michael Peter Kostiuk of International Falls, MN, was traveling northbound on County Road 332 when he entered the right turn lane to County Road 24. As he attempted to make a turn, the Subaru crossed in front of an oncoming plow truck, resulting in a collision with the 2014 International 7000 Straight Truck, driven by 54-year-old Clayton Lee Bahr, also of International Falls. Kostiuk sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Rainy Lake Medical Center for further treatment. Bahr was not injured in the crash.
Both drivers were wearing seat belts, and alcohol was not involved in the accident. Local authorities, including the Koochiching County Sheriff’s Office and International Falls Ambulance, responded to the scene. The crash remains under investigation.
Vehicle Accidents in Minnesota
Accidents like the one on County Road 332 are reminders of the importance of caution when navigating rural roads, especially during winter months when road conditions can be icy or snowy. In this case, Kostiuk’s Subaru Outback was traveling northbound on County Road 332 and made an unexpected turn into the path of an oncoming straight truck. The collision occurred as Kostiuk attempted to turn left into County Road 24, directly crossing in front of the truck. While the road conditions were not specified, it is common for winter weather to exacerbate the risks associated with such maneuvers.
This incident highlights the critical need for drivers to carefully assess the traffic around them, especially when making turns or crossing lanes. It is vital to signal and slow down appropriately before entering a turn, particularly in rural areas where visibility may be limited. Drivers should also be prepared to yield to oncoming traffic, especially large vehicles like plow trucks and commercial trucks, which may have limited maneuverability and stopping distance in emergency situations.
The quick response from Koochiching County Sheriff’s Office and International Falls Ambulance helped ensure Kostiuk received immediate care for his non-life-threatening injuries. The absence of severe injuries in this case is a fortunate outcome, but it could have been much worse without the prompt actions of local emergency responders.
As winter continues to bring challenging road conditions to Minnesota, it is more important than ever for drivers to adjust their speed and driving habits accordingly. Snow and ice on rural roads, combined with the unpredictability of other drivers, can create hazardous situations that may lead to serious accidents. Always wear your seatbelt, drive at safe speeds, and be extra cautious when turning or crossing lanes to reduce the risk of collisions.
Local Accident Reports urges all drivers to stay aware of their surroundings, follow traffic laws, and exercise caution when traveling on rural roads to help prevent accidents and injuries.