Randolph County, MO (February 11, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash on US-63, just one mile south of Clark, resulted in injuries Monday evening. Emergency responders from Randolph County Ambulance and the Southeast Fire District arrived quickly at the scene following the accident, which occurred at approximately 7:49 PM.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the collision took place when a 16-year-old male from Centralia, MO, driving a 2010 Ford F150, attempted to cross US-63 and was struck by a northbound 2008 Mazda Axela. Both vehicles sustained severe damage, with the Mazda being totaled and the Ford incurring extensive damage. Palmatary’s Towing and Prather’s Towing removed the vehicles from the scene.
The 36-year-old female driver of the Mazda, from Moberly, MO, was wearing her seatbelt at the time but sustained moderate injuries. She was transported by Randolph County Ambulance to University Hospital for treatment. The teen driver of the Ford F150 was reportedly uninjured in the crash.
MSGT. Easley, with assistance from CPL. Gipson is leading the investigation into the incident to determine contributing factors.
We extend our best wishes to the injured driver and hope for her swift recovery.
Teen Drivers and Intersection Safety in Missouri
Crashes involving teen drivers often highlight the importance of experience and caution on the road, particularly at intersections where misjudgments can lead to serious consequences. In this recent Randolph County collision, a 16-year-old driver attempting to cross a busy highway collided with an oncoming vehicle, emphasizing the unique risks young drivers face.
Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents due to inexperience, distraction, and underestimating traffic conditions. In Missouri, licensing programs aim to reduce these risks by gradually introducing young drivers to complex driving situations. However, high-speed highways like US-63 present challenges even for experienced drivers, making it crucial for teens to receive thorough training on navigating intersections and understanding right-of-way rules.
Intersection accidents are particularly dangerous because of the angle and force of impact when vehicles collide. In this case, the Mazda Axela struck the Ford F150 while it was crossing the highway, leading to significant damage and moderate injuries to the other driver. Ensuring that younger drivers are equipped with the skills to judge distances, monitor oncoming traffic, and respond appropriately to high-pressure situations can prevent such incidents.
Parents and guardians play a critical role in reinforcing safe driving habits for teens. Encouraging supervised driving sessions on highways, educating them about the dangers of distracted driving, and ensuring they understand Missouri’s traffic laws are essential steps in reducing teen-related accidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a teen driver, understanding your legal options and accessing the right support can make all the difference in recovery.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, Local Accident Reports is here to assist. We provide the latest updates on traffic incidents and connect victims with resources to support their recovery. Whether you’re looking for medical care options or guidance on legal steps, we’re dedicated to helping you through every stage of the process. Contact us today to learn how we can support you during this difficult time.