JOPLIN, Newton County, Mo., Sept. 21, 2026 — A Joplin teenager was hurt on Sunday afternoon, September 20, in a two-vehicle crash on South Range Line Road about one mile south of Joplin, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The Highway Patrol reported that a 17-year-old Joplin girl was driving a 2013 BMW X1 and was making a left turn when her vehicle was struck by a 2024 Chevrolet Trax driven by a 35-year-old Joplin man. The crash happened around 3:25 p.m., troopers said.
The teen driver was taken to Freeman West Hospital in Joplin for treatment of injuries described as moderate. No information on the other driver's condition was included in the report.
The Highway Patrol's investigation into the crash is ongoing. No additional details, including possible causes or citations, have been released.
We hope those who were hurt recover fully and quickly.
Left-Turn Crashes in Missouri: What the Numbers Show
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an estimated 6,138,359 police-reported traffic crashes occurred in 2023. Left-turn collisions make up a notable share of intersection crashes nationwide, since a turning vehicle usually has to cross the path of oncoming traffic and judge gaps in speed and distance in a matter of seconds.
These crashes tend to happen at moderate speeds compared to highway collisions, but the side-impact angle they produce can still cause real harm, particularly to the driver on the side that gets struck. Visibility, traffic volume, and whether a turn is protected by a signal all play into how frequently these crashes occur at a given location.
Because so much of the outcome depends on split-second timing and sightlines, left-turn crashes remain common at both signaled and unsignaled intersections across Missouri and elsewhere, even where other crash types have declined.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does speed affect the severity of a crash like this?
Even at lower speeds typical of intersections, the force of impact rises quickly with speed. A few extra miles per hour can mean the difference between minor damage and a serious injury.
Why is distracted driving a factor in intersection crashes?
A driver who is turning needs a clear, continuous view of oncoming traffic. Any glance away, whether at a phone or elsewhere, can cause a missed gap or a misjudged distance.
What should I do immediately after a car accident?
Move to a safe location if possible, check for injuries, and call 911. Exchange information with the other driver, take photos of the scene, and seek a medical evaluation even if injuries seem minor at first.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Janice, MO
If you're involved in a crash near Janice, stay at the scene and call law enforcement so an official report can be filed. Even injuries that feel minor at first, like soreness or stiffness, can turn out to be more serious, so a prompt medical check is worth the time.
Keep records of any treatment you receive and follow up with your doctor if symptoms change. Reporting the crash to your insurer promptly, and keeping a copy of the official report once it's available, will help if questions come up later about what happened.
