Manford James Iverslie Killed in Maine Prairie Township C...
MSP investigating fatal collision in Stearns County
An 84-year-old Rockville man died Friday afternoon after a two-vehicle collision on Highway 15 at County Road 146 in Maine Prairie Township, Stearns County, Minnesota, according to the Minnesota State Patrol (MSP). A 2022 Ford F-150, traveling westbound on County Road 146, and a 2019 Ford Expedition, heading northbound on Highway 15, collided at their intersection. The F-150 driver, identified as Manford James Iverslie, was pronounced dead at the crash scene. He was wearing a seatbelt, and alcohol is not suspected. The driver of the Ford Expedition, 42-year-old Kristin Kay Vanvleet of Saint Augusta, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Saint Cloud Hospital. A 7-year-old passenger in the Expedition, Harper Lana Vanvleet, also of Saint Augusta, was not injured. Both were wearing seatbelts. Stearns County Sheriff's Office, Watkin Fire, South Haven Fire, Kimball Fire, and Mayo EMS responded to the scene. Road conditions were dry. The crash remains under investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol.
A thorough investigation is essential to understand "how this tragedy could have occurred," stated Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "For families who have lost a loved one, the details uncovered can be critical in seeking justice and preventing similar incidents; our focus is on holding those responsible accountable."
Minnesota wrongful death statute
Under Minnesota Statute § 573.02, certain family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim following a fatal car accident. This statute allows for recovery of financial and emotional losses. Eligible claimants typically include spouses, children, and parents, and in some circumstances, siblings or other relatives, depending on the specific facts of the case.
Bond noted that wrongful death claims in Minnesota consider factors such as medical and funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the emotional suffering experienced by surviving family members.
Comparative fault in Minnesota
Minnesota operates under a modified comparative fault system. This legal framework means that if the deceased is found to have contributed to the accident, any potential recovery may be reduced proportionally to their percentage of fault. If the deceased's fault is determined to be greater than 50%, recovery may be barred entirely.
Statute of limitations under Minnesota law
Wrongful death claims in Minnesota generally must be filed within three years from the date of the accident. However, specific circumstances can sometimes extend this period. Damages sought in such claims may include compensation for lost income, loss of companionship, and the pain and suffering endured by the surviving family members.