Elkhart, IN (August 31, 2026) – A 57-year-old woman was injured Saturday, August 29, after a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of County Road 20 and County Road 35 in Elkhart County.
Elkhart County deputies responded to the crash around 6:04 p.m. and found a 2015 black Cadillac SRX driven by a 16-year-old. According to the preliminary investigation, the teenager allegedly failed to yield the right of way to oncoming traffic, causing a 2019 Lexus RX3 driven by Mariane Gingerich to collide with the Cadillac.
Gingerich was transported to Goshen Hospital with a contusion to her right shin and complaints of pain. The 16-year-old driver was not injured.
Our thoughts are with Mariane Gingerich as she recovers from her injuries. We also wish her a full and speedy recovery.
What Should Drivers Know About Yielding the Right of Way?
Yielding the right of way is an important part of preventing crashes at intersections. Drivers should slow down when approaching an intersection and determine which vehicles have priority before proceeding. Taking an extra moment to check for approaching traffic can help prevent a collision.
Drivers should be particularly careful when crossing or entering roads with moving traffic. A vehicle that appears to be far away can approach more quickly than expected, especially when visibility is limited or traffic is moving at higher speeds. Maintaining a controlled speed gives motorists more time to stop if another vehicle is approaching.
Young and inexperienced drivers can benefit from developing strong intersection habits early. Staying focused, minimizing distractions, and scanning in both directions before proceeding can improve awareness. Drivers should also remain patient rather than rushing through a turn or crossing when there is uncertainty about who has the right of way.
