West Plains, MO (January 8, 2025) – A two-vehicle collision on Highway 160, about half a mile south of West Plains, left three individuals injured on Tuesday evening. The crash occurred at approximately 6:00 PM, drawing emergency responders to the scene.
According to officials, the crash involved a 2011 Nissan Altima and a 2015 Chevrolet Trax. The Nissan Altima, traveling eastbound, failed to yield and pulled out in front of the Chevrolet Trax, which was traveling westbound. This caused the Chevrolet to collide with the Nissan. Both vehicles sustained total damage and came to rest in the roadway. The Altima was towed by Hughes Towing at the owner’s request, while the Trax was removed by J and J Recovery.
The driver of the Altima, a 42-year-old male from Birch Tree, MO, sustained injuries. A 46-year-old female passenger in the same vehicle also suffered injuries. Both were not wearing safety devices at the time of the crash and were transported by ambulance to Ozarks Healthcare in West Plains for treatment. The driver of the Chevrolet, a 49-year-old male from West Plains, MO, also sustained injuries and was transported to the same hospital. He was reportedly wearing a safety device.
Corporal M. T. Weakley of the Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the incident. Our thoughts are with those injured in this crash, and we hope for their full and speedy recovery.
Intersection and Yield-Related Accidents in Missouri
Failure-to-yield accidents, like the one reported on Highway 160, are among the most common causes of roadway collisions. These incidents often occur at intersections or when vehicles attempt to merge into traffic without adequate caution. Such accidents frequently lead to significant vehicle damage and injuries, especially on rural highways with higher speed limits.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), failure-to-yield crashes contribute to a large percentage of traffic incidents across the state. Many of these accidents are preventable with increased awareness, adherence to traffic laws, and proper use of safety devices.
Drivers are urged to exercise caution when approaching intersections or entering traffic lanes. Yielding the right of way is not only a legal requirement but also a vital measure to prevent collisions. Wearing seat belts further reduces the severity of injuries in the event of a crash.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident caused by a failure to yield, understanding your legal rights and options is essential. Proper guidance can help manage medical costs, insurance claims, and other challenges that arise after a collision.
For more information or assistance following an accident, contact Local Accident Reports. They provide valuable resources and support to help individuals navigate the aftermath of a crash.