Teen seriously hurt in Big Rapids Township crash

BIG RAPIDS — A two-vehicle crash at a busy Big Rapids Township intersection left one driver with potentially life-threatening injuries, according to the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office. On April 24, at approximately 12:13 p.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office responded to a crash near the intersection of Perry Avenue and Venlo Drive in Big Rapids Township. The investigation found a 19-year-old female from Cedar Springs was exiting a parking lot at 1286 Perry Ave. onto Perry Avenue and failed to yield to oncoming traffic, causing her vehicle to be struck by a westbound truck driven by a 57-year-old female from Canadian Lakes. The 19-year-old driver sustained serious, potentially life-threatening injuries, according to the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office. She was transported by Mecosta County EMS to the hospital in Big Rapids and later airlifted to Butterworth Hospital for further treatment. The 57-year-old driver sustained minor injuries and was evaluated at the scene by first responders before being released. Authorities said names and additional details are being withheld as the crash remains under investigation. Assisting agencies included Big Rapids City Fire/Rescue, Colfax Township Fire Department, Mecosta County EMS, Mecosta County Sheriff’s Posse, Mecosta County Crash Investigation Unit, Curries Towing and Meceola Consolidated Central Dispatch. Mecosta County Sheriff Brian Miller said drivers should remain aware of road conditions and surroundings, especially in congested areas. “Everybody’s lives are hectic and it's really easy to not slow down and make sure that things are clear. It's a matter of slowing down, taking your time, being safe and making sure that you’re properly buckled in and taking precautions necessary that come with taking on the responsibility of being a driver,” Miller said. Miller said ongoing construction near State Street and Perry Avenue can contribute to congestion and requires additional caution from drivers. “The construction right now is not good timing on State and Perry, it's really easy to get congested. When you add the other circumstances to it, you’ve just gotta' make sure that you’re aware of your surroundings and driving safely,” he said. Miller expressed hope for the recovery of the 19-year-old driver. “Hopefully, the young lady in this situation recovers,” he said. Miller also noted that driving risks can be overlooked in daily routines. “Sometimes, we take it for granted,” Miller said.