Two-Vehicle Crash Reported in Rutland

Authorities say driver crossed center line, causing head-on collision

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Vermont State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on U.S. Route 7 near Post Road in Rutland on February 22nd. According to police, a 78-year-old man from Pittsford was traveling southbound when he failed to maintain his lane and crossed the center line, colliding head-on with a northbound vehicle driven by a 64-year-old woman from Rutland. Both drivers sustained minor injuries, with the woman transported to a local hospital.

Why it matters

Two-vehicle crashes on rural highways can often result in serious injuries or fatalities, highlighting the importance of safe driving practices and attentiveness, especially on roads with higher speed limits. This incident also demonstrates the value of emergency response teams and towing services in managing the aftermath of such collisions.

The details

Police say Robert Fish of Pittsford was driving his 2018 GMC Sierra southbound on U.S. Route 7 when he crossed the center line and collided head-on with a 2021 Dodge Ram driven northbound by Laura Coleman of Rutland. Both drivers were wearing seatbelts and sustained minor injuries, with Coleman transported to Rutland Regional Medical Center. The vehicles suffered front-end damage, and the Rutland Town Fire Department, Regional Ambulance Service, and Carrara's Towing assisted at the scene.

  • The crash occurred around 5:14 p.m. on February 22, 2026.
  • Weather conditions were clear and the road was dry at the time of the incident.

The players

Robert Fish

A 78-year-old man from Pittsford, Vermont who was driving a 2018 GMC Sierra southbound on U.S. Route 7 when he crossed the center line and collided head-on with another vehicle.

Laura Coleman

A 64-year-old woman from Rutland, Vermont who was driving a 2021 Dodge Ram northbound on U.S. Route 7 when she was involved in the head-on collision. She was transported to Rutland Regional Medical Center with minor injuries.

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The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of attentive and responsible driving, especially on rural highways where high speeds and limited visibility can increase the risks of head-on collisions. The prompt response and assistance from emergency services also highlight their critical role in managing the aftermath of such crashes.