Jasper Co, MO (September 21, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash in Jasper County left one man injured Friday afternoon. The collision occurred around 1:30 p.m. on MO-171, about one mile north of Carl Junction near the MO-96 junction.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 2015 Kia K900 driven by a 47-year-old man from Cherryvale, KS, was heading northbound on MO-171 when it attempted to make a U-turn in the roadway. A southbound 2022 GMC Terrain, driven by a 74-year-old man from Halstead, KS, struck the rear of the Kia during the maneuver.
The GMC sustained total damage and was towed from the scene by H and H Towing, while the Kia received moderate damage and was also removed by the same company. The 74-year-old driver of the GMC suffered injuries and was transported by METS Ambulance to Mercy Hospital Joplin for treatment. The driver of the Kia was not reported as injured.
Traffic was slowed briefly as crews responded and cleared the crash site. The Missouri State Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident.
Our thoughts are with the man injured in this collision, and we wish him a smooth recovery.
Car Accidents in Missouri
The crash north of Carl Junction highlights the risks that sudden or unexpected roadway maneuvers, like U-turns, can create for drivers. In this case, a U-turn attempt on MO-171 directly in front of oncoming traffic led to a collision that sent one driver to the hospital. Even at typical highway speeds, rear-end and side-impact crashes caused by abrupt turns often result in significant vehicle damage and injuries.
Missouri crash data shows that rural highways such as MO-171 are common locations for serious collisions due to higher speeds, mixed traffic, and fewer controlled intersections. Maneuvers that interrupt the natural flow of traffic—such as sudden stops or turns—frequently contribute to dangerous situations for drivers traveling behind or approaching from the opposite direction.
For drivers in Jasper County, this incident underscores the importance of exercising patience and caution when making U-turns or other unexpected moves. Waiting for a safe gap in traffic and signaling intentions clearly can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
Local Accident Reports remind anyone injured in a Missouri crash that recovery support and resources are available. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a collision, reach out to Local Accident Reports today to learn more about the assistance and guidance available to you.
