Lawson, MO (May 18, 2025) – First responders, including paramedics, assessed and treated individuals hurt in the crash following a two-vehicle collision Saturday morning on Hunter Ln in rural Ray County, near the city of Lawson. The crash resulted in one reported injury and significant vehicle damage.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred around 10:20 AM at 21352 Hunter Ln. Authorities state that both vehicles, a 1997 Chevrolet truck and a 2010 Toyota Tacoma, crossed the center of the roadway and collided. The Chevrolet, driven by a 20-year-old male from Excelsior Springs, sustained total damage and was towed from the scene by Lucky’s. The Toyota, operated by a 60-year-old man from Grandview, suffered moderate damage and was removed by R and L Shoemakers towing.
The driver of the Tacoma, who had been wearing a safety device, sustained injuries but refused medical treatment at the scene. The driver of the Chevrolet truck was not wearing a safety device at the time of the crash. No additional injuries were reported.
Law enforcement officials responded promptly to secure the rural crash scene and conduct a preliminary investigation. No citations or charges have been disclosed, and the incident remains under review.
Our thoughts are with all those involved in the crash, and we hope for continued safety for those traveling in the Lawson area.
Centerline Collisions on Rural Missouri Roads
Crashes involving vehicles that cross the centerline, like the collision on Hunter Ln in Ray County, are often serious due to the limited reaction time and direct impact angle. These head-on or sideswipe collisions are especially common on narrow, two-lane rural roads lacking center barriers or shoulder space.
Data from the Missouri Department of Transportation indicates that rural areas, particularly those with curving or hilly roadways, are disproportionately affected by centerline-related crashes. Contributing factors often include driver distraction, overcorrection, drowsiness, or inexperience. In this incident, both drivers inadvertently left their lanes, leading to a damaging collision.
Lawson and the surrounding areas in Ray County feature numerous rural connector roads where visibility can be limited and traffic controls are sparse. Residents and commuters are encouraged to drive cautiously, reduce speeds on unfamiliar routes, and avoid distractions that could lead to unintentional lane departures.
Even when injuries appear minor, all crash participants should consider seeking medical attention to ensure no underlying injuries are overlooked. Furthermore, documenting the crash and securing statements can assist in insurance and recovery processes.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a rural collision, contact Local Accident Reports for help navigating the next steps in recovery.