Princeton, MN (March 9, 2026) – One person was hurt Friday afternoon after a crash involving a car and a tractor-trailer on Highway 169 near Highway 95 in Princeton.
The collision happened around 2:16 p.m. on March 6. Reports state that a 2005 Toyota Avalon and a 2006 Freightliner semi were both traveling northbound on Highway 169 when the crash occurred.
According to information from the scene, the Avalon changed lanes and struck the front of the semi-truck. The car then hit a nearby bridge before being pushed sideways by the Freightliner until the truck came to a stop.
The Toyota was driven by 26-year-old Hannah Marie Erickson. She suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to M Health Fairview Northland Medical Center in Princeton for treatment.
The Freightliner driver, identified as 43-year-old Andrew James Grosshuesch, was not hurt in the crash. Authorities reported that the roadway was wet at the time of the collision.
Emergency units responded to the scene and assisted with the response and roadway safety. 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 continue to recover.
The Risks of Changing Lanes Near Large Trucks
Changing lanes near large trucks can be risky because of the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Semi-trucks require much longer distances to slow down or stop compared to passenger cars.
Trucks also have larger blind spots along both sides and behind the trailer. If a car moves into one of these areas during a lane change, the truck driver may not see the vehicle right away.
When a collision happens between a car and a semi-truck, the smaller vehicle often absorbs most of the impact. Even a minor contact can cause a car to spin, strike barriers, or lose control.
Wet roads can add another challenge. Reduced traction may make it harder for drivers to maintain control or avoid contact during sudden maneuvers.
