Ozark, MO (August 24, 2025) – A collision between a pickup truck and a golf cart occurred late Friday night on US 160 at Reality Ln in Theodosia, located in Ozark County. The crash was reported at approximately 10:20 PM and resulted in moderate injuries to one individual.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 54-year-old male driver from Ozark, operating a 2009 Yamaha golf cart, sustained moderate injuries. He was not wearing a safety device and was airlifted by Air Evac to Cox South Hospital in Springfield for further treatment.
The second vehicle involved was a 2015 RAM truck driven by a 21-year-old male from Theodosia. He was not reported to be injured and was listed as exempt from safety device regulations. The RAM sustained total damage but was removed from the scene by the owner, while the golf cart, which suffered moderate damage, was towed by Ron’s Recovery of Gainesville.
Preliminary reports indicate that the crash occurred when the westbound RAM attempted to pass the southbound golf cart. As the golf cart made a left turn, it was struck by the passing truck.
Cpl. D.J. Johnson of Troop G is leading the investigation, which temporarily disrupted traffic along US 160 while emergency responders cleared the scene and assisted the injured.
Our thoughts are with the injured individual, and we hope for a swift and complete recovery.
Golf Cart Accidents on Missouri Highways
While rare, crashes involving golf carts on public roadways, like this one on US 160 in Ozark County, can result in serious injuries due to the lack of structural protection and safety equipment in these types of vehicles. This incident underscores the unique risks of operating slow-moving or unconventional vehicles on busy highways.
Golf carts are typically not designed for highway travel and may lack safety features such as seatbelts, lights, or turn signals. When involved in collisions with larger, faster-moving vehicles like trucks, the outcomes can be severe.
Drivers of all vehicles must remain alert to slower traffic, especially at night or on rural roads where visibility is reduced. Additionally, when executing passing maneuvers, it’s essential to ensure the path is clear and that the vehicle being passed is not attempting a turn.
In rural Missouri, highways often serve a dual purpose for both traditional and non-traditional vehicles. Increased caution and clear communication between drivers can help prevent accidents like this one.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.