Franklin County, MO (May 13, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash early Monday morning in Franklin County left a Sullivan woman with minor injuries following a complex sequence of turns that resulted in a roadside collision near the intersection of Route BB and Route A.
The incident unfolded at approximately 6:45 a.m. along Route BB, west of Route A. Preliminary reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol indicate that the driver of a 2015 Toyota RAV4, a 26-year-old man from Washington, was attempting a series of turns onto and across Route BB to access a nearby parking lot. At the same time, a 43-year-old woman from Sullivan, driving a 2004 Ford Ranger, had just turned onto Route BB from Route A when the vehicles collided.
According to the investigation, the RAV4 driver first turned left onto Route BB and then immediately attempted a right-hand maneuver across the roadway into a lot. As he did so, the Ranger’s front end struck the RAV4 on the front right side, resulting in moderate damage to both vehicles. Sturms Towing removed both vehicles from the scene.
The female driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained minor injuries and was transported by Union Ambulance to Mercy Hospital Washington. The RAV4’s driver was reportedly uninjured.
Authorities continue to examine the crash dynamics, particularly the sequence of movements that led to the unexpected conflict in the traffic path. No citations have been issued at this time, and the roadway was cleared shortly after the collision.
We extend our sincere wishes for a full recovery to the injured driver.
Rural Turn Collisions in Missouri
Crashes involving turning vehicles are common in Missouri’s rural and semi-rural intersections, where sightlines are often limited and traffic flows can change suddenly. Monday morning’s crash on Route BB highlights how split-second timing during turning maneuvers can lead to disruptive collisions, especially when traffic control features like signals or signage are absent.
In this case, the northbound RAV4 driver initiated a quick left-right turn sequence to access a parking lot, likely underestimating the presence or speed of the oncoming Ford Ranger. With both vehicles traveling on Route BB in opposite directions, the lack of traffic signals or turning lanes may have played a role in the crash’s occurrence.
Turn-related crashes often result from a misjudgment of distance, speed, or the intentions of other drivers. The Missouri Department of Transportation has documented that intersections on state routes, particularly those without marked turn lanes, pose elevated crash risks. Franklin County’s layout, with many commercial entrances positioned close to intersections, only intensifies that hazard.
The fact that the injured driver was unrestrained further reinforces the importance of seatbelt use, even on short or routine drives. In many minor crashes, seatbelts can be the difference between walking away and requiring hospitalization.
Drivers traveling along rural routes like BB should exercise added caution when making or approaching turns, particularly in the early morning hours when visibility may be impacted by glare or fog. Defensive driving, using turn signals well in advance, and yielding until the roadway is completely clear are essential practices.
If you or a loved one was involved in a collision caused by a turn-related movement, there are options for help and support. From securing medical documentation to exploring coverage options, timely action can ease the path to recovery.
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a crash alone. Local Accident Reports is here to support Missouri families by providing trusted guidance and access to resources after serious vehicle accidents. Whether you’re dealing with medical concerns, insurance hurdles, or need help understanding your rights, contact Local Accident Reports today for compassionate, informed assistance.