Dodge City, KS (February 3, 2025) – Two children suffered serious injuries, and three other individuals were hospitalized after a minivan crashed into a parked recreational vehicle along US-50 early Monday morning.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 12:58 AM on westbound US-50, just northeast of Dodge City. Authorities reported that a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan was traveling west when the driver took her eyes off the road. The vehicle drifted off the highway and struck an unoccupied 1987 Fleetwood motorhome that was parked on the shoulder.
Two children in the minivan, identified as Nayeli N. Larman, 9, and Mikayla Overton, 3, both of Cimarron, sustained serious injuries in the crash. Neither child was in a safety restraint at the time of impact. They were transported to Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City for urgent medical care.
The driver of the minivan, Cayse L. Larman, 32, along with two other passengers, Kaden L. Larman, 12, and Daniel N. Larman, 8, all of Cimarron, sustained minor injuries. They were transported to Western Plains Medical Center in Dodge City for further evaluation. Authorities confirmed that Cayse Larman and Kaden Larman were wearing seat belts, while Daniel Larman was not properly restrained.
The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Our thoughts are with the injured victims and their families.
Highway Accidents and Seat Belt Safety in Kansas
Kansas roadways, particularly highways such as US-50, are frequently traveled by passenger and commercial vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents caused by driver distraction, drowsy driving, or failure to maintain lane position. Crashes involving parked or disabled vehicles on the shoulder can be particularly dangerous when drivers are inattentive or fail to recognize hazards in time to react.
One of the most critical safety measures in any vehicle is the use of seat belts and proper child restraints. Studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that seat belts and age-appropriate car seats significantly reduce the risk of severe injury or death in a crash. Kansas law requires all vehicle occupants to wear seat belts, with additional regulations mandating that children be secured in proper restraints based on their age and size.
Failure to use seat belts or child safety restraints increases the severity of injuries in high-impact crashes. Unrestrained passengers are more likely to suffer life-threatening injuries due to the force of a collision. In this case, the two seriously injured children were not properly secured, which likely contributed to the extent of their injuries.
For families dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident, medical expenses, rehabilitation, and legal considerations can be overwhelming. Understanding legal rights and options for compensation is essential for victims seeking assistance with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. Consulting with professionals who specialize in accident-related claims can provide critical guidance during the recovery process.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a vehicle accident, Local Accident Reports can provide resources and assistance during this challenging time.