Beaverton Township, MI (May 5, 2025) – Two young girls are in stable but critical condition after a vehicle collided with an Amish buggy Friday evening in Beaverton Township, according to the Gladwin County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash took place at approximately 8:25 p.m. on May 2 near the intersection of Bard Road and Calhoun Road. A 2016 Nissan Versa Note was traveling southbound on Bard Road when it struck the rear of an Amish buggy carrying a family of four.
Inside the buggy were a 62-year-old Amish man, his 60-year-old wife, and their two granddaughters—a one-year-old and a 10-year-old, both from Gladwin. The impact of the collision caused severe injuries to both children, who were later listed in stable but critical condition.
Authorities have not released the name of the Nissan driver or confirmed whether speed, visibility, or distraction were factors. The Gladwin County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Our hearts go out to the children and their family during this incredibly difficult time, and we hope for their full and swift recovery.
Vehicle vs. Buggy Crashes in Rural Michigan
Collisions between motor vehicles and Amish buggies remain a pressing concern in many parts of rural Michigan, where motorized and non-motorized transportation often share the same roadways. Friday’s crash in Beaverton Township underscores just how vulnerable buggy occupants—especially children—can be in these scenarios.
Unlike modern vehicles, horse-drawn buggies offer no structural protection in the event of a rear-end collision. Even low-speed impacts can lead to catastrophic outcomes, particularly when occupants include small children. The use of reflective gear and lighting can reduce risk, but visibility challenges at dusk and inattentive driving still lead to tragic consequences each year across the state.
Bard Road, like many rural routes in Gladwin County, lacks designated buggy lanes or widespread illumination, increasing the risk of crashes after dark. As vehicle traffic continues to mix with traditional forms of travel, driver education and roadway planning are increasingly vital to community safety.
Investigations into crashes like this often focus on driver behavior, braking distance, and sightlines—especially in rural areas with limited visibility. Outcomes from these investigations can lead to changes in policy or the push for enhanced driver awareness in Amish-heavy regions.
For families affected by such traumatic incidents, support becomes critical not just for immediate medical care but also for navigating insurance claims, potential legal action, and emotional recovery.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a buggy-related crash, knowing your rights and connecting with compassionate, knowledgeable resources can make a profound difference in the healing process.
Crashes involving Amish buggies are uniquely devastating and require urgent attention and care. At Local Accident Reports, we’re committed to supporting families impacted by these incidents through connection to trusted medical, legal, and emotional recovery services. If your loved ones have been hurt in a serious accident, contact Local Accident Reports today. We’re here to stand with you through every step of recovery.