Distracted driver runs into semi-trailer

A distracted driver ran into a semi-trailer on the north side of Huntingburg Tuesday at about 2:50 p.m.

Dwight Swanson of Cabana Dr., Fishers, was northbound on U.S. 231 in a 1999 Lexus when he attempted to turn into the car wash north of 14th Street at 408 Old State Road 231. Swanson told police he received a call and looked down at his phone. He didn’t see the 2003 International tractor hauling a dump trailer also turning right at that location.

Swanson’s Lexus collided with the landing gear of the dump trailer.

Swanson was able to exit the vehicle on his own. Both airbags in his car deployed.

Swanson suffered minor scratches and was treated at the scene. Ben Hassenour of 800W, Washington, the driver of the International was also checked by emergency medical services at the scene and released.

The trailer is thought to have sustained about $6,000 in damages and Swanson’s car is thought to be a total loss.

Indiana State Police and Memorial Hospital Emergency Medical Services assisted at the scene.