In the early hours of Saturday, March 1, 2025, a tragic accident occurred on Highway 26 near Neitman Road in Waupun, Wisconsin, resulting in one fatality. According to the Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office, multiple 911 calls began coming in around 1:45 a.m. reporting the collision. Preliminary investigation revealed that a southbound vehicle crossed over the centerline and collided head-on with a northbound commercial vehicle. Witnesses reported that the southbound vehicle had been struggling to maintain its lane prior to the crash. Officials believe alcohol was a contributing factor in the incident. The driver of the southbound vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene, while the commercial vehicle driver sustained minor injuries and was treated at a local hospital before being released. The highway remained closed between County Highway TC and Highway 151 for approximately four hours as authorities conducted their investigation.

Location and Infrastructure

Highway 26 serves as a critical north-south corridor in Fond du Lac County, connecting Waupun with surrounding communities. The section near Neitman Road is primarily a two-lane highway with a marked centerline but no physical barrier separating opposing traffic flows. This rural stretch of roadway experiences moderate traffic volume, including both passenger vehicles and commercial traffic, particularly given its proximity to Highway 151, a major regional thoroughfare. The area features relatively flat terrain with occasional gentle curves, though nighttime visibility can be challenging due to limited roadside lighting. The posted speed limit in this section is typically 55 mph, creating significant collision forces during head-on impacts. The intersection with Neitman Road is controlled by stop signs for cross traffic, while Highway 26 traffic has the right-of-way.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Wisconsin law, operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) is a serious offense that can lead to both criminal charges and civil liability. In fatal accidents where alcohol is determined to be a factor, surviving family members may have grounds for wrongful death claims against the responsible party. Wisconsin follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to each party. Commercial vehicle operators and their employers are typically subject to additional regulations and may have different liability standards. Parties affected by such accidents generally have three years from the date of the incident to file personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits under Wisconsin's statute of limitations. Potential compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and funeral costs. Insurance coverage often plays a critical role in these cases, with multiple policies potentially applying. An experienced Waupun personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Related Resources

• Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Office: (920) 929-3390
• Waupun Police Department: (920) 324-7911
• Waupun Fire Department: (920) 324-7910
• LifeStar Emergency Medical Services: (920) 324-8888
• Wisconsin Department of Transportation - Highway Safety: www.wisconsindot.gov/safety
• Wisconsin State Patrol - Northeast Region: (920) 929-3700
• Fond du Lac County Victim/Witness Services: (920) 929-3048
• Wisconsin Department of Transportation Crash Reports: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/crsh-rpt/default.aspx
• Wisconsin OWI Laws: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/drunk-drv/default.aspx
• MADD Wisconsin (Mothers Against Drunk Driving): madd.org/wisconsin