On Saturday afternoon, a tragic multi-vehicle collision at the intersection of State Road 46 and Hunter Valley Road resulted in one fatality and two additional injuries. The accident occurred around 2:28 p.m. when a white 2007 Mercury Milan entered the westbound lanes while traveling eastbound, causing a catastrophic crash involving two additional vehicles. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office responded immediately to the scene, finding three vehicles involved: the Mercury Milan, a gray 2025 Buick Enclave, and a 2025 Mercedes-Benz. Emergency responders transported the Mercury's driver to a Bloomington hospital, where they were later pronounced deceased. The Buick's driver suffered multiple broken bones, while the Mercedes-Benz driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Local authorities closed State Road 46 at Hunter Valley Road to conduct a thorough investigation and manage the crash site.

Location and Infrastructure

State Road 46 is a critical transportation route in Monroe County, known for its challenging traffic patterns and potential hazards. The intersection with Hunter Valley Road represents a complex traffic zone that requires careful navigation. The presence of a grass median suggests a divided highway design, which can present unique driving challenges. The area is located near Bloomington, a major urban center in southern Indiana, and experiences significant traffic flow from local commuters, university traffic, and regional transportation. Road conditions and traffic control devices play a crucial role in intersection safety, highlighting the importance of careful driving and adherence to traffic regulations.

Legal Rights and Considerations

In Indiana, motor vehicle accidents involving fatalities trigger specific legal protocols and potential compensation mechanisms. Victims and their families may be entitled to pursue various forms of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential wrongful death claims. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Indiana is typically two years from the date of the accident, while wrongful death claims have a similar timeframe. Insurance considerations will likely involve comprehensive investigations by multiple insurance carriers to determine fault and potential settlements. Families and survivors should carefully document all accident-related expenses and consult with legal professionals to understand their full range of legal options.

Related Resources

Emergency Services

• Monroe County Sheriff's Office: (812) 349-2560
• Bloomington Police Department: (812) 339-4477
• Monroe County Emergency Management: (812) 349-2560

Traffic Safety Resources

• Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT): https://www.in.gov/dot/
• Indiana Highway Safety Information Portal
• Local Traffic Safety Administration

Support Services

• Victim Support Services of Monroe County
• Indiana Trauma Support Network
• Local Counseling Centers Specializing in Accident Trauma

Legal and Regulatory Information

• Indiana Motor Vehicle Accident Laws
• Indiana Revised Statutes - Traffic Regulations
• Indiana Department of Insurance - Accident Claim Guidelines

Note: The name of the deceased driver has not been released pending family notification.