Clever, MO (July 31, 2026) – Four people were injured on Wednesday evening, July 29, in a three-vehicle collision on Route K. The accident occurred around 5:50 p.m., about two miles south of Clever.
A southbound 2013 Ford Focus had stopped to make a turn when a 2019 Honda Odyssey struck it from behind. The Honda then made contact with a northbound 2011 Ford Edge.
A 12-year-old passenger in the Ford Focus was airlifted to Cox South with serious injuries. A 45-year-old passenger in the same car was also seriously hurt and brought to Cox South by ground ambulance.
The 43-year-old Focus driver and the 41-year-old Honda driver received moderate injuries and were taken to the same hospital. The 24-year-old Ford Edge driver was not among those receiving medical treatment.
The Focus and Honda were declared total losses, while the Edge had moderate damage. The cause of the crash remains under review.
We hope everyone receiving care makes steady progress toward recovery.
Why Rear-End Crashes Can Involve Several Vehicles
A rear-end strike can push a stopped vehicle forward with little warning. Occupants may move suddenly against their seat belts before the car changes direction or makes contact with another vehicle.
When several vehicles become involved, people can experience force from more than one angle. The first car may be pushed ahead, while the second may enter an opposing lane or strike nearby traffic, these movements can affect the head, neck, chest, back, and limbs.
Travel speed, vehicle size, seating position, and the angle of each contact can influence injury severity. Younger passengers may need careful medical evaluation because their bodies are still developing. Seat belts help limit movement inside the cabin, but strong forces can still cause serious trauma. Imaging and repeated checks may be needed when symptoms are not immediately clear.
