Maidstone, VT (July 22, 2025) – A head-on collision on Vermont Route 102 resulted in both drivers sustaining minor injuries Saturday evening, after one vehicle reportedly crossed into oncoming traffic, according to Vermont State Police.
The crash took place on July 20 around 5:40 p.m. when a 2018 Nissan Altima, driven by 21-year-old Jakub Grimard of Littleton, NH, traveled over the centerline and collided head-on with a 2018 Ram 3500 pickup operated by Jessica Valliere, 27, of Stewartston, NH.
Authorities say both vehicles were heavily damaged and declared totaled at the scene. Despite the significant impact, neither driver required hospitalization. Paramedics evaluated both individuals and treated them for minor injuries on site.
Police noted that Grimard was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, while Valliere had hers properly fastened. Road and weather conditions were reported as dry and clear, eliminating environmental factors as contributing causes.
Following the investigation, Grimard was issued a civil traffic violation for improper lane usage under Vermont law. The incident briefly affected traffic on Route 102 while the wreckage was cleared and troopers completed their report.
Our thoughts go out to both drivers as they recover from this frightening experience.
Head-On Collisions in Vermont
Head-on crashes, even at moderate speeds, carry a high risk of severe consequences due to the direct force involved. Fortunately, in this incident along Vermont Route 102 in Maidstone, both individuals were able to walk away with minor injuries—a rare outcome in collisions that result in both vehicles being totaled.
Initial findings by state police indicated that the Nissan Altima crossed the centerline under clear weather and dry road conditions. Events like these often point to driver distraction, inattention, or improper lane control. While the official cause has not been fully detailed, the issuance of a civil violation to the at-fault driver suggests preventable behavior played a role.
Wearing a seat belt remains one of the most effective safety measures drivers can take. In this crash, only one of the drivers was belted, and authorities continue to emphasize the importance of proper restraint use, even during short trips on rural routes. Studies consistently show that unbelted drivers are at a significantly higher risk of injury or death in frontal collisions.
Head-on crashes are especially common on two-lane roads like Route 102, where a single moment of misjudgment or fatigue can result in devastating consequences. Vermont’s traffic safety initiatives include public awareness campaigns and targeted enforcement of lane discipline and seat belt use, particularly in rural counties.
Even minor injuries from a car crash can disrupt daily life and lead to longer-term physical or financial stress. Knowing how to access the right reports, health services, or legal support can make recovery more manageable for those affected.
If you’ve been involved in a head-on collision or injured in a Vermont traffic crash, Local Accident Reports is here to help. We provide timely access to accident information, support resources, and recovery tools tailored to your situation. Reach out now to learn how we can assist you on the road to resolution.