South Dakota Trooper's Vehicle Rear-Ended Near Highway 38

No injuries reported, but patrol car sustained damage during response to multiple crashes.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:48pm

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The South Dakota Highway Patrol says one of their trooper's vehicles was rear-ended on Sunday while responding to a crash with multiple slide-ins near the intersection of Highway 38 and 462nd Avenue. No injuries were reported, but the patrol car sustained damage to the rear bumper and bed. The Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to slow down, turn on their lights, and avoid unnecessary travel during poor visibility conditions.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers that law enforcement face when responding to hazardous weather conditions on the roads. Rear-end collisions can put first responders at risk, even when they are already on the scene of an accident. The Highway Patrol's warning to drivers underscores the importance of safe driving practices during winter weather.

The details

According to the South Dakota Highway Patrol, one of their trooper's vehicles was rear-ended on Sunday while the patrol crew was responding to a crash with multiple slide-ins near the intersection of Highway 38 and 462nd Avenue. The patrol car sustained damage to the rear bumper and bed, but no injuries were reported.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday, March 16, 2026.

The players

South Dakota Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling highways and responding to incidents in South Dakota.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for drivers to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel during hazardous weather conditions. Slowing down, turning on lights, and staying off the roads unless absolutely necessary can help protect first responders and other motorists on the highways.