St. Louis, MO (February 11, 2025) – A serious two-vehicle collision on Interstate 44 westbound resulted in significant injuries early Monday morning. Emergency responders from Eureka Fire Protection District quickly arrived at the scene near the 260.2-mile marker to provide urgent medical assistance to those involved.
The crash occurred at approximately 3:20 AM when a 2019 GMC Terrain, stopped in lane three without its lights on, was rear-ended by a 2010 Peterbilt 389 truck traveling westbound. The impact left both vehicles severely damaged, with the GMC Terrain sustaining total damage and the Peterbilt incurring extensive damage. Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Big Boys Towing.
The driver of the GMC Terrain, a 36-year-old female from Sullivan, MO, suffered serious injuries despite wearing a seatbelt. She was transported to Mercy Hospital St. Louis by paramedics for further treatment. The driver of the Peterbilt, a 36-year-old male from Lewistown, IL, sustained injuries and was also taken to Mercy Hospital St. Louis for evaluation.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances leading to the crash. Preliminary information indicates that the lack of lights on the stationary GMC Terrain may have contributed to the collision. Trooper J. Hedrick, assisted by Corporal M. Hedlund, is leading the investigation.
Our thoughts are with those injured in this crash, and we hope for their full and speedy recovery.
Truck Accidents in Missouri
Truck accidents like the one that occurred on I-44 in St. Louis are often severe due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles compared to standard passenger cars. When a large truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the consequences can be devastating, as seen in this incident where a stopped SUV was rear-ended, leading to serious injuries.
One of the contributing factors in truck accidents is visibility, especially during nighttime or early morning hours. In this case, the stopped GMC Terrain without lights created a hazardous situation for oncoming drivers. Commercial truck drivers often have limited ability to maneuver quickly due to the size and weight of their vehicles, which makes recognizing and responding to road hazards particularly challenging. This highlights the critical importance of ensuring all vehicles are visible when stopped on the road, especially on highways.
Missouri highways, including major routes like I-44, are common corridors for commercial trucking. While essential for commerce, these routes can become dangerous if safety protocols are not rigorously followed. Missouri law requires vehicles to have functioning lights, especially when stopped or stalled in a traffic lane, to prevent such tragic outcomes. In addition to driver vigilance, maintaining vehicle functionality is vital to road safety.
For those involved in truck accidents, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical treatments, vehicle repairs, and insurance claims add layers of stress to an already traumatic event. Seeking professional guidance can help navigate these complexities and ensure that the injured parties receive the support they need for recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, resources are available to help you through this difficult time. Understanding your rights and options is the first step toward recovery.
If you or someone you care about has been hurt in an accident, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. At Local Accident Reports, we provide up-to-date accident information and connect victims with resources that can support their recovery. From understanding your legal rights to finding medical assistance, our goal is to help you through every step of the process. Reach out today to find out how we can assist you during this challenging time.