Paul D. Moore, 59, killed in Tractor-Trailer Collision on Wisconsin Highway 26 Near Ripon Claims Life of Waupun Resident

In a tragic early morning crash on Thursday, a 59-year-old Waupun man lost his life when a northbound tractor-trailer crossed the center line of Wisconsin Highway 26 near Ripon. The incident occurred at approximately 3:30 a.m. at the intersection of WIS 26 and Hickory Road, when the semi-truck collided with a southbound 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan. Multiple emergency response agencies rushed to the scene, including the Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office, Town of Ripon Police Department, and Winnebago County Sheriff's Office. The driver of the van was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Wisconsin State Patrol is currently leading an ongoing investigation into the crash, and the identities of both drivers are being withheld pending notification of family members.

Location and Infrastructure - Wisconsin Highway 26 serves as a crucial north-south corridor in Fond du Lac County, connecting the communities of Rosendale, Ripon, and Waupun. The intersection with Hickory Road is located in a rural area characterized by agricultural land and scattered residential properties. This stretch of highway is a two-lane road with a posted speed limit of 55 mph, typical of rural state highways in Wisconsin. The area experiences significant commercial truck traffic due to its role in connecting major regional transportation routes, and winter weather conditions can create additional hazards for motorists.

Legal Rights and Considerations - Under Wisconsin state law, victims of commercial vehicle accidents and their families may be entitled to seek compensation through multiple channels. Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence system, where parties less than 51% at fault may recover damages. The state's statute of limitations generally allows three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. Potential compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and funeral expenses in fatal cases. Commercial vehicle accidents often involve complex liability issues, including potential claims against the trucking company, equipment manufacturers, or maintenance providers. An experienced Ripon personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Related Resources:

• Wisconsin State Patrol Northeast Region Fond du Lac Post: (920) 929-3700
• Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office: (920) 929-3390
• Fond du Lac County Highway Department: (920) 929-3485
• Wisconsin DOT Crash Reports: wisconsindot.gov
• Wisconsin Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: (800) 362-9082
• Wisconsin State Patrol Crash Investigation Unit: (608) 266-1204
• USDOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: (800) 832-5660