Minor Collision in Spillville Involves Out-of-Country Driver, With No Citation Issued

The following car accident was reported by The Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday, October 23. On October 16, 2024 at 10:35 a.m. Vehicle one, driven by 39-year-old Duane Wilson of Parkersburg, Iowa was traveling east on Co Rd B16, just outside of Spillville. Vehicle two, driven by Barbara Ortwein of Germany, was exiting the driveway of 2872 Co Rd B16. Wilson said he saw Ortwein creeping out a bit into the road, but figured it was just because of the shrubs/weeds along the road, which can make it difficult to completely see if vehicles are coming. Because of this, Wilson continued his normal travel, assuming Ortwein would stop once she saw him. However, Ortwein never stopped, but rather just continued to slowly enter the roadway. As Wilson was passing by the driveway, Ortwein got out far enough into the roadway where it ended up striking Wilson's truck on one of its rear tires, causing damage to the rim and tire of the semi trailer, and major damage to her own vehicle. Ortwein is deemed to be at fault in this collision. However, due to Ortwein being from another country and on her way back on the day of the collision, Ortwein would not be able to attend a court date if a citation were issued. As a result, the reporting officer chose to not issue one. Stay ahead of the curve! Subscribe to free newsletters for exclusive insights, local trends and analysis delivered straight to your inbox.