A serious traffic collision between two pickup trucks left one driver hospitalized after being ejected from his vehicle early Tuesday morning in rural DeKalb County, Indiana. The crash occurred just after 5:15 a.m. at the intersection of County Road 32 and County Road 11, according to the DeKalb County Sheriff's Department. The incident involved a southbound pickup truck on CR 11 that collided with a second pickup truck whose driver had stopped on CR 32 before pulling out into the path of the oncoming vehicle. The impact was severe enough to eject the driver of the southbound pickup from his vehicle, requiring emergency medical transport to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the second pickup truck was not injured in the collision. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the rural intersection to provide medical assistance and investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The DeKalb County Sheriff's Department is continuing its investigation into the collision.

Location and Infrastructure

The collision occurred at the intersection of County Road 32 and County Road 11 in rural DeKalb County, Indiana, an area characterized by agricultural land and lower-density residential properties. Rural county road intersections like this one typically experience lighter traffic volumes compared to major highways but can present unique safety challenges due to limited visibility, varying road surface conditions, and the absence of traffic control devices such as stop signs or traffic signals at every intersection. The early morning timing of the crash, occurring just after 5:15 a.m., suggests limited visibility conditions may have been a factor. DeKalb County's rural road network serves both local residents and agricultural traffic, with pickup trucks commonly used for farm operations and daily transportation. The intersection's design and any existing traffic control measures would be relevant factors in the ongoing investigation by local authorities.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Indiana follows a comparative fault system under Indiana Code 34-51-2-7, meaning that damages may be apportioned based on each party's degree of fault in causing the accident. The injured driver may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages if the other driver is found to be at fault for failing to yield the right-of-way. Indiana Code 9-21-8-32 requires drivers to yield to traffic that does not have to stop when entering or crossing a roadway. Personal injury claims in Indiana must typically be filed within two years of the accident date under the statute of limitations (Indiana Code 34-11-2-4). Insurance considerations include Indiana's minimum liability coverage requirements and potential uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Given the severity of the collision and ejection of one driver, comprehensive medical documentation will be crucial for any potential legal proceedings. Accident victims should preserve all medical records, police reports, and other relevant documentation while consulting with qualified legal counsel to understand their rights and options.

Related Resources

Local Emergency Services:

• DeKalb County Sheriff's Department: (260) 925-3315
• DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency
• Local fire departments and EMS services

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Indiana Criminal Justice Institute - Traffic Safety Division
• DeKalb County Highway Department
• Indiana State Police - Fort Wayne Post

Support Services:

• DeKalb County Health Department
• Local hospital trauma centers and rehabilitation services
• Victim assistance programs through the DeKalb County Prosecutor's Office

Legal and Regulatory Resources:

• Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles traffic laws: in.gov/bmv
• Indiana Code Title 9 (Motor Vehicles): iga.in.gov
• Indiana Department of Transportation safety information
• Indiana State Bar Association lawyer referral service