St. Louis, MO (February 16, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash occurred early Sunday morning on eastbound Interstate 255, west of Missouri 231, resulting in injuries and extensive vehicle damage.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the accident happened at approximately 12:20 a.m. when a 2023 Honda Civic, driven by a 17-year-old male from St. Louis, MO, was stopped in lane one of eastbound I-255 due to a prior traffic incident. A 2013 Kia Soul, operated by a 28-year-old male from Waterloo, IL, was also traveling eastbound in lane one.
Authorities reported that the driver of the Kia Soul was distracted by his phone, which was being used as a navigation device. Upon noticing the stopped Honda Civic in the roadway, the driver attempted to slow down but was unable to avoid a collision. The front of the Kia Soul struck the rear right side of the Honda Civic, causing significant damage to both vehicles.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene, and the juvenile driver of the Honda Civic sustained minor injuries. He was transported by private conveyance to Mercy Hospital South for medical evaluation. The driver of the Kia Soul did not report any injuries.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. Additional details may be released as the inquiry progresses. Our thoughts are with those affected by this incident.
Distracted Driving Accidents in Missouri
Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents on Missouri highways, particularly in high-speed areas like Interstate 255. The use of electronic devices while driving, including navigation apps, significantly increases the risk of collisions by reducing reaction time and situational awareness.
The Missouri Department of Transportation warns that even a momentary distraction can lead to severe accidents, especially when traffic congestion or stopped vehicles are present on roadways. Motorists are urged to remain focused, minimize distractions, and maintain a safe following distance to prevent rear-end collisions.
For those involved in distracted driving-related crashes, seeking medical evaluation and understanding legal rights is crucial. Ensuring accountability and raising awareness about safe driving practices can help reduce the number of accidents caused by inattentiveness.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.