Bemidji Township, MN (September 4, 2026) – One person was injured after a two-vehicle crash on Thursday, September 3, at the intersection of Highway 197 and Carr Lake Road in Bemidji Township, Beltrami County.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, a 2018 Hyundai Elantra was traveling eastbound on Carr Lake Road while a 2020 Kenworth tractor was traveling southbound on Highway 197. The vehicles collided in the intersection. No alcohol involvement was suspected, and the roadway was dry at the time of the crash.
The Hyundai’s driver, 23-year-old Aurora Elizabeth Ames of Vadnais Heights, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Bemidji Hospital. The Kenworth’s driver, 67-year-old Gary Dean Hockenson of Bemidji, was not injured.
The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene.
We hope the injured victim can make a full recovery.
What Should Drivers Know About Intersections With Trucks?
Intersections can be challenging when passenger vehicles and large commercial trucks approach from different directions. Trucks are larger and heavier than passenger vehicles and may require more time and distance to stop. Drivers should make sure they have enough time to safely enter or cross an intersection when a truck is approaching.
Motorists should also avoid assuming that a truck can stop or change direction as quickly as a smaller vehicle. Keeping a safe distance and remaining aware of the truck’s position can help drivers make better decisions. Checking both directions before entering an intersection is especially important when visibility is limited.
Drivers should remain attentive to traffic signals, stop signs, and other roadway controls. Avoiding distractions and maintaining a speed appropriate for the conditions can provide more time to respond to unexpected traffic movements. Seat belts should be worn by everyone in a vehicle on every trip, including when traveling on local roads.
