Benson, VT (February 13, 2026) – Six people were injured on Tuesday, February 10, in a two-vehicle crash on VT Route 22A near Route 144 in Benson. The collision occurred at approximately 8:11 a.m. when a 2013 Hyundai Elantra traveling southbound crossed into the northbound lane and struck a 2014 Toyota Tundra, according to Vermont State Police. The driver of the Hyundai and a passenger were not wearing seat belts and sustained injuries. The operator of the Toyota and three passengers, including two juveniles, were wearing seat belts and also sustained injuries. All six individuals were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Emergency personnel closed the roadway temporarily while crews responded and cleared the scene. The crash remains under investigation.
Key Details
- Location: VT Route 22A near Route 144, Benson
- Reported: February 10 at 8:11 a.m.
- Vehicles Involved: 2013 Hyundai Elantra and 2014 Toyota Tundra
- Injuries: Six people were injured
- Medical Transport: Patients taken to Rutland Regional Medical Center and Porter Hospital
- Assisting Agencies: Vermont State Police, Benson, and Fair Haven fire and rescue personnel
What We Know So Far
- The southbound Hyundai was unable to maintain its lane and struck the northbound Toyota.
- The Hyundai sustained severe front-end, right-side, and rear-end damage.
- The Toyota sustained severe front-end and moderate left-side damage.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The specific reason the Hyundai crossed into the opposite lane.
- Whether weather conditions directly contributed to the crash.
- The current conditions of those hospitalized.
Local Context
VT Route 22A is a primary north-south corridor in western Vermont, carrying a mix of local commuters, commercial traffic, and school transportation. Morning travel hours can bring steady vehicle flow, particularly near intersections such as Route 144. Although road conditions were reported to be clear at the time of the crash, falling snow can create changing visibility and traction concerns. When a multi-injury collision occurs on this stretch, emergency crews typically secure the roadway to allow safe medical transport and detailed documentation of vehicle positions and roadway evidence. Temporary closures can affect regional travel due to limited alternate routes in rural areas.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved, get to a safe location if you can and check for injuries; call 911 when medical help is needed.
- Stay on scene and follow responder directions so the incident can be documented and the roadway managed safely.
- If it is safe, take a few photos of vehicle positions, damage, and any visible traffic controls or road conditions.
- Arrange safe towing and do not remain near active traffic while waiting for assistance.
FAQ
Q: Why can multi-vehicle accidents take longer to clear?
A: When several people are injured, responders must coordinate medical care, documentation, and vehicle removal, which can extend road closures.
Q: Why are head-on collisions often severe?
A: Head-on crashes involve the combined force of vehicles traveling in opposite directions, increasing the likelihood of significant damage and injury.
Q: What does it mean when an accident is still under investigation?
A: It means authorities are reviewing evidence, examining roadway conditions, and gathering statements before finalizing the official report.
