WINNABOW, Brunswick County, N.C., Oct. 17, 2026 — A crash involving a flatbed truck and an assisted living van closed all lanes of northbound NC-133 in Winnabow, N.C., on Friday morning, October 16, according to the North Carolina Highway Patrol. One passenger was thrown from the van and seriously hurt.
Troopers said the flatbed truck, loaded with construction materials, was traveling south on NC-133 near Mallory Creek Drive. The van, carrying elderly residents of an assisted living facility, was headed north and attempted a left turn. The Highway Patrol said the van failed to yield and collided with the truck.
A woman riding in the van was reportedly thrown through a window and suffered serious injuries. Another passenger inside the van was thrown to the floor of the vehicle and sustained minor injuries, according to the report.
The truck struck a nearby power pole in the crash, Highway Patrol said. Crews on scene had to wait for the pole to be stabilized before the truck could be moved, which kept all lanes shut down for a time. The road has since reopened to traffic.
Charges are pending as the investigation continues. No further details on the condition of either injured passenger have been released.
We wish the injured a complete and speedy recovery.
More on Crashes in Winnabow, NC
This crash happened in Winnabow, NC. We cover crashes across Brunswick County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Brunswick County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can drivers do to avoid turning collisions like this one?
Left turns across oncoming traffic are a common crash point. Drivers should wait for a fully clear gap, double-check blind spots, and never assume an oncoming vehicle will slow down or stop.
What injuries are common when someone is thrown from a vehicle?
Occupants thrown from a vehicle during a crash risk broken bones, head trauma, and internal injuries. Wearing a seatbelt at all times, including in vans and buses, greatly reduces this risk.
What usually causes crashes like this one?
Failure to yield during a turn is one of the most frequent causes of intersection and turning crashes, especially when a driver misjudges the speed or distance of an oncoming vehicle.
Does speed make a difference in turning crashes?
Yes. Higher speeds give both drivers less time to react and increase the force of impact, which raises the chance of serious injury for anyone thrown within or from the vehicle.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Winnabow, NC
After any crash involving a turning vehicle, get checked by a medical provider even if injuries seem minor at first, since some symptoms take hours to appear. Call 911 so officers can document the scene and file an official report. If you're a passenger, note what you remember about the vehicles' movements before impact, as this can help clarify what happened. Keep copies of any medical records, and follow up with your own insurer promptly. If a power line or other hazard is involved, stay clear of the area until crews confirm it's safe.
