Jefferson County, MO (August 8, 2025) – A serious two-vehicle collision occurred late on Wednesday morning on US-61 just south of MO-M, leaving both drivers injured and vehicles totaled. The incident took place at approximately 11:10 a.m. and was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper C. C. Swederska.
According to the crash report, a 2002 Buick LeSabre traveling southbound attempted to make a left turn, crossing the center line. The vehicle failed to yield and entered the path of a northbound 2013 Ford Focus. The front of the Ford Focus struck the right side of the Buick, resulting in a heavy-impact crash that left both vehicles disabled at the scene.
The driver of the Ford Focus, a 20-year-old male from Fredricktown, sustained minor injuries and was transported by Rock Township Ambulance to Mercy Hospital South. The driver of the Buick LeSabre, an 85-year-old female from Arnold, suffered moderate injuries and was taken to the same hospital by private conveyance. Both vehicles were towed from the scene by Leo’s Towing due to extensive damage.
Law enforcement officers and emergency personnel worked swiftly to secure the area and ensure that both individuals received timely medical attention. An investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Our thoughts are with both injured drivers as they recover from this unfortunate crash.
Two-Vehicle Crashes in Missouri
Intersections and turn-related conflicts continue to be a major contributor to traffic collisions across Missouri. In this case, the crash along US-61 south of MO-M appears to have resulted from a failure to yield while turning, an all-too-common factor in roadway accidents. While every crash has its unique circumstances, left-turn conflicts are especially dangerous when oncoming vehicles are traveling at highway speeds.
US-61 is a heavily traveled route in Jefferson County, often used by both local commuters and long-distance travelers. The combination of high-speed traffic and intersections without traffic signals increases the likelihood of serious injury in collisions. In this crash, the northbound vehicle had the right of way, and the impact was severe enough to total both vehicles involved.
Left-turn crashes are particularly risky for older drivers, who may face visibility or reaction-time limitations. It’s crucial for drivers of all ages to exercise heightened caution when crossing opposing traffic lanes, especially on highways like US-61.
Injury recovery from a highway crash can involve extensive medical treatment, follow-up care, and insurance negotiations. Victims often need reliable resources to help manage these challenges.
Navigating recovery after a crash is difficult, but it doesn’t have to be done alone. Local Accident Reports is here to help injured individuals and their families connect with information, support, and next steps. If you’ve been hurt in a collision, take action today to begin your path toward recovery.
