Faribault, MN (November 22, 2024) – A two-vehicle accident resulting in injuries occurred Wednesday evening on northbound Interstate 35 near Mile Marker 60 in Faribault. The incident, reported at approximately 5:04 PM, involved a 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander and a 2012 Yamaha sports bike.
Emergency responders, including Faribault Police Department, Rice County Sheriff’s Office, North Ambulance, and Faribault Fire Department, arrived promptly at the scene. The Yamaha and Mitsubishi were both traveling northbound when they made contact on the icy and snowy roadway.
The driver of the Yamaha, identified as Abram Henry Gordhamer, 17, of Apple Valley, MN, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. He was transported to Faribault Hospital for treatment. Gordhamer was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, and alcohol was not a factor.
The driver of the Mitsubishi, 66-year-old Jerry Lee Yoho of Maple Grove, MN, was not injured. Yoho was wearing a seat belt, and the airbag in his vehicle did not deploy. No medical attention was required for Yoho at the scene.
The crash remains under investigation. Drivers are reminded to exercise caution on snowy and icy roads and to adjust their speeds to accommodate winter driving conditions.
Our thoughts are with Abram Gordhamer, and we wish him a swift recovery.
Winter Driving Challenges in Minnesota
Minnesota’s winters bring hazardous driving conditions, often leading to accidents like the one on Interstate 35. Snow and ice reduce traction, increase stopping distances, and can make vehicles prone to skidding. Interstates, especially during peak travel hours, are particularly susceptible to such incidents.
Motorists are encouraged to prepare for winter driving by ensuring their vehicles are equipped with appropriate tires, maintaining safe following distances, and reducing speeds on icy roads. Wearing seat belts and helmets, as shown in this case, can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
Emergency responders, such as the Faribault Police Department and local fire crews, play a critical role in managing winter-related accidents, providing timely assistance to those injured and ensuring the safety of other motorists.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a winter-related accident, Local Accident Reports is here to provide updates and connect you with resources for recovery. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.
