Laclede County, MO (August 25, 2025) – A rear-end collision on Missouri Route 5, approximately four miles north of Lebanon, left one woman injured Saturday afternoon. The crash occurred around 3:42 p.m. and involved two northbound vehicles—both driven by local residents.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 44-year-old woman from Lebanon was driving a 2014 Chevrolet Sonic and had slowed to make a right turn when her vehicle was struck from behind by a 1994 GMC Sierra. The Sierra was operated by a 25-year-old female driver, also from Lebanon, who failed to yield in time to avoid the collision.
The impact caused minor damage to both vehicles. The GMC Sierra was able to be driven from the scene, while the Chevrolet Sonic remained secured roadside. Emergency personnel from Mercy Ambulance responded, and the 44-year-old driver of the Sonic was transported to Mercy Hospital in Lebanon with minor injuries. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the crash.
The incident remains under review, and no citations have been announced at this time.
We send our well wishes to the injured driver and hope for a quick and full recovery.
Rear-End Crashes and Turning Hazards on Missouri Roadways
Rear-end accidents are among the most common crash types across Missouri—and Saturday’s incident on MO-5 illustrates how quickly these collisions can happen, even at moderate speeds. When a driver slows to make a turn, especially on a rural two-lane road, any lapse in attention or misjudgment in following distance can lead to an unexpected impact.
In this case, the GMC Sierra driver failed to yield while the Chevrolet Sonic was executing a right-hand turn. Fortunately, both vehicles sustained only minor damage, and the driver of the Sonic, while injured, was reported in stable condition. However, had speeds been higher or seatbelts not used, the outcome could have been far more serious.
On roadways like Route 5, which runs through mixed residential and rural areas near Lebanon, turning vehicles often disrupt the flow of traffic without the benefit of designated turn lanes or advance warning signage. This makes defensive driving—especially maintaining proper following distance—critical for crash prevention.
Missouri’s Department of Transportation recommends drivers allow at least three seconds between their vehicle and the one ahead, increasing that buffer during inclement weather or near intersections and driveways. Failure to follow this guideline remains a leading contributor to preventable rear-end crashes.
If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end accident in Laclede County or elsewhere, Local Accident Reports can help you understand your next steps. We provide timely updates, resource referrals, and guidance to help you navigate recovery. Reach out today to learn how we can support you during this time.
