WATSON, Chippewa County, Minn., Oct. 25, 2026 — A Montevideo woman was hurt Friday afternoon, October 23, when her SUV collided with a semi-truck near Watson, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The crash happened around 5:10 p.m. near Highway 7 and Central Avenue.
A 2021 Jeep Cherokee and a 2014 Freightliner Cascadia semi were both traveling northbound on Highway 59 when the two vehicles collided. Roads were dry at the time, investigators noted.
The driver of the Jeep, a 71-year-old Montevideo woman identified by the agency as Lorrie Lynne Abel, suffered injuries described as non-life-threatening and was taken to Montevideo Hospital. She was wearing a seatbelt.
The semi driver, a 64-year-old Council Bluffs, Iowa, man identified as Mark Phillip Ring, was not injured. He was also belted at the time of the crash.
The Chippewa County Sheriff's Office and Montevideo Ambulance responded to the scene. The state patrol said its information on the crash is believed complete, though the exact cause has not been detailed in the report.
We hope everyone who was hurt makes a full and speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in WATSON, MN
This crash happened at Highway 7 and Central Avenue. A in WATSON, MN. We cover crashes across Chippewa County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Chippewa County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries are most common in car accidents like this one?
Collisions between passenger vehicles and large trucks usually cause bruising, broken bones, and whiplash-type neck and back injuries, even in crashes without life-threatening outcomes. Seatbelts play a major role in limiting the severity of injuries in these impacts.
What typically causes crashes involving a car and a semi truck?
Common factors include following too closely, misjudging a truck's speed or stopping distance, lane changes, and blind spots. Investigators review vehicle positions, road conditions, and driver statements to determine what led to a specific collision.
How does speed affect the severity of a crash?
Higher speeds increase both the force of impact and the distance needed to stop, which raises the likelihood of serious injury. Even modest reductions in speed can change the outcome of a crash substantially.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Watson, Minnesota
If you're involved in a crash on a highway like this, move to a safe location if possible and call 911 right away. Stay with your vehicle until law enforcement arrives, and accept medical evaluation even if you feel fine, since some injuries aren't obvious right after a collision.
Get the names and contact information of everyone involved, along with the responding agency's report number, so you can follow up later. Take photos of the vehicles and the scene if you're able to safely do so. Afterward, keep copies of any medical records and repair estimates in case you need them for insurance purposes.
