Township of Leroy, WI – A 48-year-old woman from Brookfield died in a three-vehicle crash on State Highway 49 on Wednesday morning, Dec. 10, according to the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office. Officials say the collision involved a semi-truck, a Toyota RAV-4, and a Toyota Highlander.
Crash Occurs Near County Highway Around 8:30 A.M.
Deputies were dispatched to Highway 49 near County Highway YY at approximately 8:30 a.m. Wednesday after reports of a serious multi-vehicle collision.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the semi-truck with trailer was traveling eastbound on Highway 49 when the Toyota RAV-4, operated by the Brookfield woman, lost control while heading westbound. The RAV-4 was reportedly following a Dodge County Highway Department plow truck conducting road clearing operations. A third vehicle, a Toyota Highlander, driven by a 63-year-old Campbellsport man, was traveling behind the RAV-4 in the same direction.
Details of the Collision
Authorities reported that the RAV-4 crossed the center line, entering the eastbound lane and colliding with the semi-truck. The impact pushed the RAV-4 backward into the path of the Toyota Highlander.
Following the collision, the semi-truck entered the south ditch, while both passenger vehicles came to rest in the roadway. Emergency crews immediately responded to assist those involved.
Victims Transported to Hospitals; Brookfield Woman Pronounced Dead
The Brookfield woman driving the RAV-4 was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Dodge County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The semi-truck driver was transported to Waupun Hospital for evaluation, though no serious injuries were reported. The driver of the Toyota Highlander, the 63-year-old Campbellsport man, was taken by EMS to Froedtert Hospital in West Bend with non-life-threatening injuries.
Names of those involved are being withheld by authorities pending family notification.
Highway 49 Temporarily Closed for Investigation
As a result of the crash, Highway 49 was closed in both directions—from County Highway YY south to County Highway YY north—for the duration of emergency response and the subsequent investigation. Traffic has since been reopened, though delays were reported during the closure.
Investigators continue to review the crash scene and gather evidence to determine the exact cause of the accident. The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office is coordinating the investigation with the Medical Examiner’s Office and other local agencies.
Safety Concerns Highlighted by Winter Driving Conditions
Officials noted that the collision occurred during winter months while road crews were actively plowing, underscoring the risks of winter driving. Slippery conditions, icy patches, and the presence of plow trucks can increase the likelihood of multi-vehicle accidents, particularly on highways like State Highway 49.
Authorities remind drivers to maintain safe distances, reduce speed in adverse conditions, and exercise caution when passing or following plow trucks during snow and ice operations.
What are your thoughts, Dodge County?
Do you think more precautions are needed for winter driving on Highway 49? Share your experiences, suggestions, or condolences in the comments below.
