Utica, MO (November 16, 2024) – A tragic rear-end collision involving a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle near Utica has claimed the life of a 44-year-old Overland Park man and left a 70-year-old Chillicothe man with life-threatening injuries. The crash occurred Friday afternoon on westbound Highway 36 near Livingston County Road 425.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 2:20 p.m. when a 2017 Lexus GX4, driven by the Overland Park man, struck the rear of a 2000 Peterbilt semi-truck. The semi-truck driver had slowed to make a right turn onto northbound Livingston County Road 425 when the Lexus failed to reduce speed in time, colliding with the trailer of the semi.
The force of the impact caused the Lexus to overturn onto its driver’s side, while the semi-truck veered off the road into the north ditch. Emergency responders pronounced the Lexus driver deceased at the scene. The semi-truck driver was transported to Cameron Regional Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.
Both drivers were reportedly wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. The vehicles were totaled, and the roadway remained closed for an extended period as authorities worked to clear the scene and investigate the circumstances of the collision. No additional details have been released at this time.
Semi-Truck Accidents in Missouri
Missouri highways see a significant volume of commercial truck traffic, and accidents involving large vehicles like semi-trucks are often severe due to their size and weight. Rear-end collisions, in particular, are a common and dangerous occurrence on busy roadways like Highway 36. These incidents are often caused by factors such as driver distraction, following too closely, or misjudging stopping distances.
In this case, the slowing of the semi-truck to make a turn highlights the challenges of navigating highways that mix high-speed traffic with frequent entry and exit points. Both drivers were wearing seatbelts, which underscores the importance of safety measures but also the devastating forces at play during these types of crashes.
Livingston County has seen its share of serious traffic incidents, prompting ongoing efforts by local and state officials to improve roadway safety. Drivers are reminded to maintain safe following distances, especially behind large vehicles that require additional space for braking and maneuvering.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a truck accident, it is critical to seek legal and medical assistance to understand your rights and options. Professional guidance can help in pursuing justice and support during recovery.
For more updates on traffic incidents and safety tips, visit Local Accident Reports. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family of the deceased and to the injured semi-truck driver as they focus on recovery.