COGGON, Linn County, Iowa, Nov. 13, 2026 — A Coralville man died on Thursday afternoon, November 12, after his car rear-ended another vehicle in a highway construction zone in Coggon, Iowa.
The crash happened just before 4:30 p.m. on Highway 13 near Linn Street, according to the Linn County Sheriff's Office. A Jeep Compass was slowing to stop for a flagger in an area where traffic had been reduced to one lane when a Ford Fusion struck it from behind.
The Ford's driver, identified by the sheriff's office as 63-year-old Douglas Bernhard of Coralville, died at the scene despite attempts to save him. Deputies said Bernhard was not wearing a seat belt.
The Jeep's driver was taken to a hospital with injuries described as not life-threatening. The sheriff's office said the crash remains under investigation.
Our sympathies are with the family of the person who lost their life.
Intersection Crashes in Iowa
This fatal crash happened at Highway 13 and Linn Street in Coggon, IA. Our Iowa intersections page covers intersection crashes across Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do fatal-crash investigations usually take?
Investigations can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on how much evidence needs to be reviewed, including crash reconstruction and any toxicology results.
How common is impairment as a factor in fatal crashes?
Impairment from alcohol or drugs is a factor in a substantial share of fatal crashes nationally, though it is only confirmed in a given case once investigators or toxicology reports establish it.
What makes a crash more likely to be fatal?
Factors such as vehicle speed at impact, whether seat belts were worn, and the type of collision (like a rear-end strike at highway speed) can all affect the severity of injuries.
What should drivers do when approaching a construction zone?
Slowing down early, watching for flaggers or reduced lanes, and leaving extra following distance can help drivers react in time to stopped or slowing traffic ahead.
