Benton County, MO (May 19, 2025) – A serious crash Saturday evening on Highway 65 north of Highway 7 left three men from Sedalia with severe injuries, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The single-vehicle collision occurred at approximately 6:58 p.m.
The crash involved a 2017 Kia Niro driven by a 55-year-old man traveling northbound on Highway 65. Authorities stated the driver took evasive action to avoid another vehicle that was turning in front of him. In the process, the Kia ran off the roadway and struck a roadside sign. The vehicle sustained total damage and was towed from the scene by Tolliver’s Tow.
The driver and two passengers, aged 27 and 51, were all seriously injured in the crash. All three were properly restrained and required emergency medical evacuation by life flight. The 55-year-old driver was airlifted to Cox South Hospital, while the 27-year-old and 51-year-old male passengers were both flown to the University of Missouri Hospital for treatment.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Department assisted with the crash response. No further information has been released regarding the vehicle that prompted the evasive maneuver.
Our thoughts are with the injured individuals and their families as they begin the road to recovery.
Evasive Maneuvers and Vehicle Collisions in Missouri
Saturday’s incident in Benton County reflects a common yet dangerous scenario on rural Missouri highways—evasive driving maneuvers to avoid a turning vehicle. While such actions can prevent a direct collision, they can also result in high-speed run-offs, particularly on highways where speeds are elevated and shoulders are narrow or uneven.
Highway 65 is a heavily traveled route in central Missouri and is known for intersecting with local roads and residential driveways. Drivers making unexpected or poorly timed turns can create critical decision points for oncoming traffic. In these moments, even a well-intentioned attempt to avoid a crash can lead to serious secondary outcomes, such as roadside collisions or rollovers.
The severity of injuries in this crash highlights the potential consequences of run-off-road incidents, even when seat belts are used correctly. Being ejected for hitting fixed objects like signs or trees at highway speed can lead to long-term injuries requiring extensive care.
Victims in crashes like this may face prolonged recovery periods, mounting medical bills, and challenges with insurance claims, especially when another driver’s action indirectly contributed to the crash but left the scene or was not identified.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious crash in Missouri, Local Accident Reports can help. We provide immediate access to official crash documentation and connect you with the support and resources you need to pursue recovery and justice. Don’t navigate the aftermath alone—reach out today for trusted guidance.
