Perham Twp, MN (August 14, 2025) – An accident involving two vehicles resulted in multiple injuries Tuesday afternoon in Perham Township, Otter Tail County. The crash occurred just before 1:00 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 78, where a northbound Chevrolet Traverse and a southbound Chrysler Pacifica collided during a turning maneuver.
According to authorities, the Chevrolet Traverse was making a left turn to head northbound on Hwy 78 when it was struck by a southbound Chrysler Pacifica. Emergency responders from Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office, Perham Fire and Rescue, and Perham Ambulance arrived at the scene to treat the injured parties.
Four individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the collision. The Chrysler Pacifica was driven by 80-year-old Timothy Allan Tschida of Lakeview, AR. He and his 74-year-old passenger, Sharon Ann Tschida, were both transported to Perham Hospital for treatment. Both were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash, and airbags deployed in the vehicle.
In the Chevrolet Traverse, 71-year-old Deborah L. Garner of LaVista, NE, was the driver. She and her passenger, 76-year-old Laura L. Render of Omaha, NE, sustained minor injuries but declined transport. Both were also properly restrained, and airbags deployed in their vehicle.
The Minnesota State Patrol noted that road conditions were dry at the time of the incident, and no alcohol use was involved. The crash remains under investigation.
We extend our heartfelt well wishes to all four individuals affected in this accident and hope for their continued recovery.
Turn-Related Crashes in Minnesota
The crash along Highway 78 in Perham Twp brings attention to the risks associated with left-turn maneuvers, especially on rural highways. These types of crashes are among the most common causes of injury collisions in Minnesota, where rural intersections can involve limited visibility and high-speed travel in opposing directions.
In this incident, both vehicles involved were traveling legally, and all occupants were wearing seat belts—factors that significantly helped limit the severity of the injuries. Yet even under dry conditions and with full restraint systems in use, left-turn crashes can cause serious harm due to the force of impact, particularly on two-lane roads like Hwy 78.
Many such collisions stem from misjudging the speed of oncoming vehicles or timing errors during turns. For older drivers, reaction time and visual perception may also play a role in decision-making during critical moments on the road. Education and continued driver assessments are important in supporting road safety for aging populations across the state.
Injured victims, even with non-life-threatening harm, may face weeks of recovery, follow-up appointments, and disruptions to daily life. It’s important for those involved to seek appropriate care and consider the legal or insurance steps that may be necessary in the aftermath.
At Local Accident Reports, we understand how impactful even “minor” crashes can be. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a crash on Minnesota’s roads—especially in a complex turn-related collision—our team is here to provide access to local resources, help you navigate recovery, and keep you informed every step of the way.
