West Plains, MO (August 22, 2026) – Three people were injured in a three-vehicle crash on Thursday morning on MO CC, about half a mile west of West Plains in Howell County. The collision happened around 8:15 a.m. on August 20, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
A 27-year-old West Plains man had stopped a vehicle in the roadway to make a left turn. A 36-year-old Cabool woman stopped her Chevrolet Trailblazer behind it, but a 20-year-old Gainesville man failed to slow down and struck the Trailblazer from behind. The impact pushed the Trailblazer into the vehicle ahead.
The Gainesville man suffered minor injuries and went to Ozarks Healthcare in West Plains by private vehicle. The Cabool woman sustained moderate injuries and was taken there by EMS, while a 51-year-old Stillwell, Oklahoma, man in her vehicle suffered minor injuries and was also transported by EMS. The Trailblazer and Honda Ridgeline were totaled.
We hope those injured continue to recover.
What Can Cause Rear-End Crashes in Traffic?
Rear-end crashes can happen when a vehicle fails to slow or stop before reaching traffic ahead. Following distance, vehicle speed, driver attention, and roadway conditions can all affect how much time a driver has to react.
A stopped vehicle can create a sudden change in traffic flow, particularly when another vehicle is preparing to turn. Drivers approaching stopped traffic should reduce their speed and leave enough space to respond if conditions change.
Multiple impacts can occur when one vehicle strikes another from behind. The force can push the struck vehicle into traffic ahead, creating additional damage and injuries. Seat belts can protect by keeping occupants properly positioned during these impacts.
