Franklin County, MO (May 18, 2025) – First responders, including paramedics, assessed and treated individuals hurt in the crash following a two-vehicle collision Friday evening on Route AT just east of Route O. The incident resulted in injuries and significant damage to one of the vehicles involved.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 4:59 PM and involved a 2014 Ford F-250 and a 1996 Subaru Impreza, both traveling eastbound. Authorities report that the Ford driver, a 20-year-old man from Washington, MO, was attempting a left turn when the Subaru, operated by a 22-year-old male from Villa Ridge, attempted to overtake the truck. During the maneuver, the Subaru struck the front right of the Ford.
The Subaru sustained extensive damage and was towed from the scene by Patriot Towing, while the Ford had moderate damage but was driven away. A 24-year-old male occupant in the Subaru was injured in the crash. He was wearing a safety device and was transported by Meramec Ambulance to Mercy Hospital Washington for treatment of injuries.
Emergency crews secured the area and managed traffic during the response. The crash is under active investigation, with officials reviewing the sequence of events leading up to the impact.
Our thoughts are with the injured individual, and we wish him a quick and complete recovery.
Traffic Crashes in Missouri
Crashes involving passing vehicles and turning maneuvers are a frequent concern on Missouri’s secondary highways, particularly in rural areas where visibility may be limited and dedicated turn lanes are rare. In this case, the collision happened when a driver attempted to overtake another vehicle as it was turning, an inherently dangerous situation due to timing and sightline issues.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, improper passing and misjudged overtaking attempts contribute to a significant portion of rural road crashes. When vehicles are closely spaced and one prepares to turn while another attempts to pass, the likelihood of a side-impact or angled front collision increases dramatically.
Route AT near Route O is a rural corridor frequented by local traffic and commuter vehicles, many of which travel at higher speeds in the absence of congestion. These conditions can encourage risky passing decisions. Drivers are urged to avoid overtaking vehicles unless they have clear visibility, ample passing space, and certainty that the other vehicle is not preparing to turn.
Seatbelt use was confirmed in this crash and likely reduced injury severity. Still, even minor injuries can result in long-term consequences, making it essential for victims to monitor their health closely in the aftermath of an accident.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a turning or overtaking collision, contact Local Accident Reports for help understanding your options and next steps in recovery.