Staples Twp, MN (February 23, 2026) – One person was injured on Sunday afternoon following a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of MN Highway 210 and County Road 21 in Todd County. The collision occurred at approximately 4:20 p.m. on Sunday, February 22.
According to reports, a 1999 Kenworth semi tractor-trailer was traveling eastbound on MN Highway 210 at the same time a 2013 Chevrolet Impala was heading southbound on County Road 21. The two vehicles collided within the intersection under dry road conditions.
Emergency units responded to the scene to assist those involved. The driver of the Impala, a 35-year-old man from Bertha, was hurt and taken to Staples Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the semi, a 32-year-old man from Baxter, was not injured.
Both drivers were wearing seat belts, and alcohol was not suspected as a factor in the crash.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. We are thinking of the injured driver as he recovers.
What Happens When Semi Trucks and Passenger Cars Collide at Rural Intersections?
Crashes involving semi trucks and passenger vehicles at rural intersections can result in serious injuries due to the size and weight differences between the vehicles. A fully loaded tractor-trailer requires more distance to stop and may have limited maneuverability compared to a standard car.
Intersections along highways such as MN Hwy 210 often combine higher travel speeds with cross traffic from county roads. Even in dry conditions, drivers must judge timing and distance carefully before entering or crossing traffic.
Seat belt use can help reduce injury severity, but the force of impact in a truck-versus-car crash can still cause harm. Clear visibility, proper signage, and cautious approach speeds are factors that can help reduce the risk of similar collisions at rural highway intersections.