Clay Co, MO (February 13, 2026) – A three-vehicle crash along northbound I-35 at MO-1 left two drivers injured on Wednesday afternoon in Clay County.
The collision was reported on February 11 at 3:00 p.m. on the northbound side of Interstate 35 at Missouri Route 1. According to investigators, two vehicles were stopped in traffic when a third vehicle approached from behind and struck the rear of one of the stopped vehicles, triggering a chain-reaction crash.
A 2011 Lexus RX350 traveling northbound collided with the back of a 2020 Land Rover Discovery, which was then pushed into the rear of a 2015 Honda Civic. The impact caused extensive damage to both the Lexus and the Land Rover, while the Honda sustained minor damage and was able to be driven from the scene.
Key Details
- Reported: February 11, Wednesday at 3:00 p.m.
- Location: Northbound I-35 at MO-1, Clay County
- Vehicles Involved: 2011 Lexus RX350, 2020 Land Rover Discovery, 2015 Honda Civic
- Injuries: One moderate, one minor
- Hospital Transport: One driver taken to North Kansas City Hospital
- Traffic Impact: Lane disruptions reported during vehicle removal
What We Know So Far
- Two vehicles were stopped in traffic before the crash occurred.
- The Lexus struck the Land Rover from behind, causing it to hit the Honda.
- The 45-year-old driver of the Land Rover sustained moderate injuries and was transported for treatment.
- The 22-year-old driver of the Lexus reported minor injuries and sought his own treatment.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The reason traffic had slowed or stopped before the collision.
- Whether any citations will be issued.
- If additional contributing factors are under investigation.
Local Context
Interchanges and merging areas near I-35 and MO-1 in Clay County can become congested during afternoon travel periods, particularly with commuter traffic moving between Liberty, Pleasant Valley, and the Kansas City metro area. When crashes occur in these high-volume corridors, responders often focus on quickly stabilizing the scene and managing merging vehicles to reduce the risk of secondary collisions.
What to Do Next
- Remain at the scene and follow instructions from first responders.
- Keep a safe distance from traffic lanes.
- Write down the time and direction of travel.
- Arrange towing if your vehicle cannot be driven.
FAQ
Q: What information should be documented after a collision?
A: Drivers should record vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and contact information for involved parties and witnesses. Clear documentation can be helpful for insurance claims and official reports.
Q: Why can merging areas be crash-prone?
A: Merging zones often require drivers to adjust speeds and change lanes within short distances. Sudden slowdowns or inattention can increase the likelihood of rear-end or chain-reaction crashes.
Q: Why might traffic be reduced to one lane after a crash?
A: Authorities may temporarily close lanes to allow emergency crews to assist injured individuals, remove damaged vehicles, and document the scene safely.
