Cedar County, IA (April 18, 2025) – A 59-year-old woman from Lowden was killed Thursday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck on Highway 30 between Clarence and Lowden, according to the Iowa State Patrol.
Accident Details: The crash occurred as Loretta J. Frana was driving a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu eastbound on Highway 30 and attempting to make a left turn onto Taylor Avenue. A semi-trailer truck, driven by Adam Wiese, 27, also of Lowden, was traveling behind her vehicle and struck the Malibu from the rear.
The impact sent the Chevy into the southeast ditch, while the semi came to rest on the eastbound shoulder of the roadway. Frana was pronounced dead at the scene. Wiese was not injured.
Legal Considerations: Rear-end collisions—particularly those involving large commercial vehicles—raise questions about following distance, situational awareness, and reaction time. If the semi-truck driver failed to notice the slowing vehicle or was unable to stop in time, liability may fall on the truck driver or their employer.
Depending on the results of the full investigation, Loretta Frana’s family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim if negligence by the truck operator is determined.
Ongoing Investigation: The Iowa State Patrol has not confirmed whether the crash remains under active investigation or if citations are pending. No additional details about contributing factors such as speed or visibility have been released.
My condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Loretta J. Frana as they mourn this tragic loss.
Source: The Gazette