Car Strikes Snow Removal Worker Matthew Balch on South Park Street in Madison; Driver Cited for DUI
Victim in critical condition, driver cited in Madison crash involving pedestrian
MPD said the victim works for a business that does snow removal and was working with another person when he was hit.
Man in critical condition after being hit by vehicle in Madison, driver cited
The 53-year-old male driver, who was heading north on South Park Street, drifted into the adjacent lane and lost control of the vehicle. He hit a power pole and ultimately the victim.
Madison disc golf community rallies to support snow shoveler struck by suspected drunk driver
Among other injuries, Matthew Balch suffered broken ribs, a collapsed lung and a traumatic brain injury when a car driving on South Park Street lost control, hit a power pole and crashed into him.
On Monday afternoon, a serious traffic accident on South Park Street near Fish Hatchery Road in Madison, Wisconsin left a snow removal worker in critical condition. The incident occurred when a northbound vehicle lost control, crossed into the opposing lane, struck a power pole, and collided with a man in his 30s who was actively shoveling snow. The victim, employed by a snow removal business and working alongside a colleague, was transported to a local hospital where he remains in critical condition as of Tuesday. The 53-year-old driver was also hospitalized for injuries sustained in the crash. Madison Police Department cited the driver for driving under the influence, and he was given an in-court date. The collision caused significant traffic disruptions in the area and resulted in a power outage affecting nearby businesses for approximately one hour. The incident underscores the hazards faced by roadside workers and the dangers of impaired driving, particularly during winter weather conditions when visibility and road traction are already compromised.
Location and Infrastructure
South Park Street near Fish Hatchery Road is a major north-south thoroughfare in Madison's south-central area, serving as a vital connector for residential and commercial traffic. The intersection experiences consistent vehicular flow, particularly during winter months when snow removal operations are active throughout the city. The presence of power infrastructure along this corridor, as evidenced by the pole struck in this incident, indicates typical urban utility placement. Winter weather conditions—including snow accumulation that prompted the victim's work—create additional hazards for both drivers and roadside workers. The area's mixed-use character, with nearby businesses subject to power disruption during this incident, suggests active commercial activity. Road conditions during snow removal operations require heightened driver awareness and reduced speeds, particularly in areas where workers are present and visibility may be limited.
Legal Rights and Considerations
Wisconsin law prohibits driving under the influence, with penalties varying based on blood alcohol content levels and prior offenses. Under Wisconsin statutes, impaired drivers may face criminal charges, license suspension, and civil liability for damages caused by their negligence. Victims of motor vehicle accidents have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages through insurance claims or civil litigation. Wisconsin's comparative negligence statute allows injured parties to recover damages even if partially at fault, though recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault. The statute of limitations for personal injury actions in Wisconsin is generally three years from the date of injury. Accident victims should document all medical treatment, gather witness statements, and preserve evidence. Insurance coverage, including uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, may provide additional recovery avenues. Given the serious nature of injuries and ongoing police investigation, consulting with appropriate legal and medical professionals is advisable for those affected.
Related Resources
Emergency Services:
- Madison Police Department (Non-emergency): (608) 255-2345
- Dane County Emergency Services: 911
- UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital (primary trauma center in area)
Traffic Safety Resources:
- Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT): wisconsindot.gov
- Madison Police Department Traffic Safety Division
- Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
Support Services for Accident Victims:
- Dane County Victim Services: (608) 266-6470
- Wisconsin Office of Crime Victim Services: ocvs.wi.gov
- Madison Hospital Social Work and Case Management Services
State Traffic Laws and Regulations:
- Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 346 (Motor Vehicles) – wisconsinlegislature.gov
- Wisconsin DUI Laws and Penalties: safety.wi.gov
- Wisconsin Snow Removal Worker Safety Guidelines