Two-vehicle Crash at Pilot Knob and Diamond Path in Apple Valley
APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOTA—On Tuesday evening, a two-vehicle "head-on" collision occurred at the intersection of Diamond Path and Pilot Knob, resulting in traffic disruptions in the area. The crash, which took place around 6:15 PM, led to the temporary blockage of the northbound lanes of Pilot Knob just north of Diamond Path. Traffic was redirected onto westbound Diamond Path, and east and westbound Pilot Knob was also briefly blocked. Despite the severity of the crash, no serious injuries were reported. One driver involved sustained only minor cuts and bruises.
According to the Apple Valley Police Department, the collision involved a 2010 Ford Escape and a 2016 Toyota Corolla. The Ford Escape, Driver 1, was traveling southbound on Pilot Knob and was attempting to turn eastbound onto Diamond Path. Driver 1 had a flashing yellow turn light. The Toyota Corolla, driven by Driver 2, was traveling northbound on Pilot Knob over Diamond Path and had a green light.
The police report indicates that Driver 1 turned in front of the Toyota Corolla, failing to yield the right-of-way and causing the collision. Initially, Driver 1 claimed they did not remember the events leading to the crash and were confused about their location. After being oriented by officers, they incorrectly stated that they were traveling eastbound on Diamond Path and crossing over Pilot Knob when the accident occurred. This account was contradicted by multiple witnesses, as well as by the damage to the vehicles.
Both vehicles sustained disabling damage as a result of the crash and were towed from the scene. Driver 1 did not report any injuries, while Driver 2 suffered multiple lacerations to one of their arms. Driver 1 was cited for failure to yield while making a left turn. Both drivers were reported to be wearing seatbelts during the crash, and neither was reported to be under the influence or distracted while driving.
The Apple Valley Police, Apple Valley Fire Department, and ALF Medics were all dispatched to assist at the scene.
A graphic provided by the Apple Valley Police Department on the crash scene.
Written by: Will Wight