Fargo, ND (March 3, 2026) – One driver was hurt on Monday afternoon, March 2, after a crash near 45th St S and 11th Ave S that also knocked out a traffic signal.
Emergency units responded to the intersection at about 4:05 p.m. Police said a vehicle swerved to avoid another car that had turned left in front of it. During the maneuver, the vehicle struck an electrical box, causing the nearby traffic signal to lose power.
The driver who made the left turn was identified as 38-year-old Fargo resident Mingquan Lu. Authorities said Lu was cited for failure to yield the right of way.
The other driver was taken to a local hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. Therefore, the northbound traffic on 45th St S was reduced to one lane while crews directed vehicles through the area. The lane has since reopened, and the traffic signal has been repaired.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. Our thoughts are with those injured as they recover.
How Left-Turn Crashes Happen at Busy Intersections
Left-turn crashes are common at city intersections, especially during afternoon traffic. These collisions often occur when a driver misjudges the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles while attempting to turn.
Intersections with multiple lanes, traffic lights, and turning vehicles can increase the risk of sudden movements. When a driver swerves to avoid another vehicle, they may lose control or strike nearby objects such as poles, signs, or utility boxes.
Damage to traffic signals can also disrupt the normal flow of vehicles and create temporary hazards. In many cases, traffic may be reduced to one lane while repairs are completed. Even when injuries are not life-threatening, these crashes can lead to road closures, vehicle damage, and unexpected delays for other drivers.
