Victoria Nicole Garcia Injured in Stony Run Township Car ...
The 18-year-old passenger was hospitalized after a two-vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 212
Victoria Nicole Garcia, 18, of Granite Falls, was injured in a car accident on U.S. Highway 212 near 490th Street in Stony Run Township, Yellow Medicine County, Minnesota, on Tuesday, according to the State Patrol.
Investigators are working to determine why two northbound vehicles—a 2010 Buick Enclave and a 2020 Mitsubishi Mirage—collided in the travel lanes at approximately 3:51 p.m. No charges have been filed.
The teenager, who was riding as a passenger in the Mitsubishi, was taken to Avera Granite Falls with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of that vehicle was also hospitalized.
The driver of the Buick was not reported injured. The Yellow Medicine County Sheriff’s Office and Avera Granite Falls Ambulance assisted troopers at the scene.
Why did the vehicles collide on Highway 212?
The exact sequence of events leading to the collision remains under review by authorities. In car accidents such as this, investigators examine vehicle damage, tire marks, and roadway evidence to determine which driver failed to maintain their lane or speed. National Legal Analyst Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from a crash scene, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide an injured client during this difficult time, as well as protect their legal rights and best interests."
How common are injury crashes in Minnesota?
The collision adds to a significant number of traffic incidents across the state. According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, the state recorded 63,664 total motor vehicle crashes in 2024, resulting in 17,199 injury crashes that affected 23,769 people.
What are the next steps for injured passengers?
Passengers injured in multi-vehicle collisions often face complex insurance claims while recovering from physical trauma. According to National Legal Analyst Stefano Formica, Of Counsel at Bond Legal"Victims should seek legal guidance when pursuing a personal injury case, which allows them to handle insurance communications and protect a victim's rights. Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly."
Individuals involved in car accidents may have legal options. Consulting a personal injury attorney can help clarify rights and potential claims.
Minnesota personal injury framework
Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault (51% bar) system. The statute of limitations is 6 years — one of the longest in the nation.
Damages include economic and non-economic losses.