Clay County, IA (August 5, 2025) – Two people were injured and transported to Spencer Municipal Hospital following a two-vehicle collision that occurred Saturday afternoon at the intersection of US 71 and US 18, just north of Spencer. The crash took place around 2:30 p.m. and involved two pickup trucks.
According to a report from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, 56-year-old Willis Saewert of Waukon was stopped at the intersection in a 2014 Ram and attempted to cross southbound US 71. Authorities say Saewert failed to yield the right of way to an oncoming vehicle—resulting in a collision with a southbound 2010 Ram driven by 61-year-old John Santana of Newell.
The impact caused injuries to Santana and a female passenger in his vehicle, both of whom were taken to Spencer Municipal Hospital for further treatment. Saewert and his female passenger were evaluated but did not report injuries at the scene.
Emergency crews from the Spencer Police Department and Spencer Fire Department assisted Clay County deputies in securing the intersection and attending to the victims. Authorities cited Saewert for failure to obey a stop or yield sign as part of the ongoing investigation.
We extend our best wishes to the injured individuals and hope for their full and swift recovery.
Intersection Collisions in Iowa
Rural intersections such as US 71 and US 18 in Clay County are frequent sites of serious crashes—often because they rely on signage rather than signals to control traffic. When one driver fails to yield or misjudges oncoming speed, the result can be a high-impact collision, particularly on highways where speeds often exceed 55 mph.
Saturday’s crash demonstrates how dangerous these intersections can be when visibility is compromised or when drivers are unfamiliar with the area. The consequences of a single mistake—such as failing to obey a stop or yield sign—can leave victims with lasting injuries and costly medical bills.
Intersection-related crashes in Iowa are responsible for a significant portion of the state’s annual roadway injuries. Many of these crashes, like the one north of Spencer, occur during daytime hours and involve experienced drivers. This suggests that ongoing public education, clearer signage, and cautious driving are essential—even on familiar rural roads.
In the aftermath of such collisions, victims may face physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Legal rights, including compensation for medical care, lost wages, and vehicle damage, depend on proper documentation and timely action.
At Local Accident Reports, we help injured Iowans understand their options and connect with reliable support services. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash in Clay County or anywhere in northwest Iowa, contact us today for access to experienced guidance, trusted resources, and the help you need to move forward with confidence.
