On December 19, 2024, at approximately 3:42 PM CST, a North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) snowplow was involved in two rear-end collisions on northbound Interstate 29 near mile marker 172, approximately 12 miles northeast of Minto, North Dakota.
Road and Weather Conditions:
- Roads were ice-covered with drifting snow.
- Weather conditions included blowing snow.
Vehicles and Drivers Involved:
- Vehicle 1: 2023 Ford F150
- Driver: Frederick Hall, 72, Edinburg, ND; uninjured.
- Passenger: Dorothy Ydstie-Hall, 68, Edinburg, ND; uninjured.
- Restraints: Seat belts worn; airbags deployed.
- Charges: Careless Driving Resulting in Crash with Snow Removal Equipment.
- Vehicle 2: 2017 Kia Sorrento
- Driver: Richard Grossman, 56, Lorette West, MB; uninjured.
- Passenger: K Anne Grossman, 55, Lorette West, MB; uninjured.
- Restraints: Seat belts worn.
- Charges: Care required.
- Vehicle 3: 2013 International NDDOT Snowplow
- Driver: NDDOT Plow Operator; uninjured.
- Restraints: Seat belt worn.
Sequence of Events:
- The NDDOT snowplow was actively plowing the northbound left lane with all emergency lights activated.
- Vehicle 1 (Ford F150) struck the rear of the snowplow, resulting in the Ford entering the median and sustaining disabling front-end damage.
- Vehicle 2 (Kia Sorrento), following the Ford, entered the snow fog created by the initial collision and struck the right rear of the snowplow. Both the Kia and the snowplow came to rest on the northbound shoulder.
Safety Reminder:
The North Dakota Highway Patrol reminds motorists to yield to snowplows during inclement weather. NDDOT plow operators work to keep roadways clear and safe. If unable to safely pass a snowplow, slow down and maintain a safe following distance.
Investigation Status:
The incident is under investigation by the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for trfnews.i234.me.