On Thursday afternoon, deteriorating weather conditions led to a collision on Interstate 69 in Auburn, DeKalb County, Indiana. The incident occurred at approximately 4:20 p.m. in the southbound lanes when a Toyota RAV4 SUV collided with a pickup truck during active snowfall. According to the DeKalb County Sheriff's Department, traffic had begun to slow due to accumulating snow when the RAV4's driver failed to notice the reduction in speed. Despite attempting to brake, the SUV lost traction on the slick roadway and slid into the rear of the pickup truck. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported the pickup truck's driver to a local hospital for treatment of unspecified injuries. The RAV4's driver emerged from the collision unharmed. The current condition of the injured driver has not been released by authorities.

The collision occurred along a crucial stretch of I-69, a major north-south interstate highway that serves as a primary transportation artery through northeastern Indiana. This section of I-69 in Auburn experiences significant daily commuter traffic between Fort Wayne and Michigan, with particularly heavy usage during typical afternoon rush hours. The area is known for challenging winter driving conditions due to lake effect snow patterns and open terrain that can lead to sudden changes in visibility and road conditions. The highway segment features standard interstate safety infrastructure including rumble strips, reflective markers, and digital message boards that display real-time weather and traffic alerts.

Under Indiana law, drivers involved in weather-related collisions may still be held liable for failing to adjust their speed and following distance to account for hazardous conditions. Indiana operates under a modified comparative fault system, where parties less than 51% at fault may seek compensation for damages. Accident victims typically have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit under Indiana's statute of limitations. Potential compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Insurance claims must be filed promptly, and Indiana requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury. An experienced Indiana personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Related Resources:

• DeKalb County Sheriff's Department: (260) 925-3365
• DeKalb County Emergency Medical Services: (260) 925-2181
• Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Northeast District: (866) 227-3555
• Indiana State Police Post 22 (Fort Wayne): (260) 432-8661
• Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles Crash Reports: www.in.gov/bmv
• DeKalb Health Hospital Emergency Department: (260) 925-4600
• Indiana Department of Insurance Consumer Services: (800) 622-4461