Readstown man suffers minor injuries in town of Franklin crash

VIROQUA, Wis. — A Readstown man sustained minor injuries in a motor vehicle crash Friday afternoon on U.S. Highway 14 in rural Viroqua, according to the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Roy Torgerson reported that the crash occurred at approximately 2:00 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27 near Brookville Road in the Town of Franklin. Michael P. Martin, 39, was driving south on U.S. Highway 14, just south of State Highway 27, while towing a tandem‑axle trailer. While traveling downhill, the trailer began to sway. Martin attempted to reduce speed to correct the sway, but the trailer jackknifed, pulling the truck backward into a ditch on the opposite side of the roadway. The truck became airborne and came to rest on its left side. The trailer, which was loaded with wood planks, detached and overturned.

Martin sustained apparent minor injuries but declined ambulance transport.

Traffic at the time of the crash was described as moderate to heavy. Several motorists witnessed the crash and stopped to assist. Sheriff Torgerson expressed appreciation to those who helped at the scene.

Agencies responding included the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, Viroqua Fire Department, Viroqua Emergency Medical Responders, and Gundersen Tri‑State Ambulance. Fire personnel assisted with traffic control. Cleanup and vehicle removal were completed, and all units cleared the scene shortly before 4:30 p.m.

The crash remains under investigation.