Thetford, VT (February 26, 2026) – A motorist was seriously injured on Wednesday morning after colliding with a Vermont Agency of Transportation plow truck on Interstate 91 in Thetford.
According to the Vermont State Police, the crash occurred just before 9:00 a.m. in the southbound lanes of I-91. Authorities reported that a pickup truck driven by 20-year-old Ronin Moulton of Groton struck the rear of a VTrans plow that was operating in the passing lane at the time of the collision.
Emergency responders transported Moulton to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Officials indicated that two employees with the Vermont Agency of Transportation were evaluated at the scene by first responders.
Investigators also noted that a third vehicle left the roadway while attempting to avoid the crash. No additional serious injuries were immediately reported.
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under active investigation.
Our thoughts are with the injured driver and all those affected by this incident as the investigation continues.
Why Highway Snow Plow Collisions Are Often Fatal
Crashes involving highway maintenance vehicles, particularly snowplows, pose unique safety concerns for motorists. Plow trucks are large, heavy-duty vehicles designed to operate at reduced speeds while clearing snow and ice. When positioned in travel or passing lanes, they may create sudden speed differentials that require approaching drivers to react quickly.
Rear-end collisions with plow trucks can be severe due to the structural differences between passenger vehicles and commercial-grade maintenance equipment. The height and reinforced rear components of plows can cause significant front-end damage and increase the risk of injury to occupants of smaller vehicles.
Interstates such as I-91 often carry fast-moving traffic, even during winter operations. Limited stopping distance, reduced traction, and visibility challenges during plowing operations can compound the likelihood of rear-end impacts. Drivers who fail to adjust their speed to roadway and weather conditions may not have sufficient time to brake safely.
Additionally, when a crash occurs near an active plow, secondary risks emerge. Other motorists may swerve abruptly to avoid the collision, increasing the chance of vehicles leaving the roadway or striking additional obstacles. Authorities typically emphasize maintaining increased following distance and exercising heightened caution when approaching maintenance vehicles.
In incidents involving government-operated equipment, investigators examine multiple factors, including vehicle positioning, roadway conditions, warning lighting, and driver behavior. Findings from such investigations can influence safety recommendations and operational protocols for winter roadway maintenance.
