Lebanon, MO (August 24, 2026) – A 51-year-old Springfield man was moderately injured after debris struck him during an accident on Interstate 44 in Laclede County. The incident happened around 7:45 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, at mile marker 141.0 on the westbound side.
According to the crash report, a 2026 Volvo tractor-trailer was parked on the shoulder while the 51-year-old man prepared it to be towed. A 2023 Freightliner Cascadia was traveling in the driving lane when it struck the mirror of the parked Volvo. The impact sent debris toward the man, striking him in the head. He was taken by personal conveyance to an unknown hospital.
The Freightliner was driven from the scene, while the Volvo was towed. The incident remains under review as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
We are thinking of the injured man as he recovers.
What Can Happen When Roadside Workers or Pedestrians Are Near a Disabled Truck?
People who stop on the shoulder of a highway can face risks from passing traffic. Large trucks and other vehicles may move close to a parked vehicle, particularly when lanes are narrow or traffic is heavy. Even a minor contact can send mirrors, vehicle parts, or other debris toward people nearby.
Drivers approaching a stopped vehicle should remain alert and provide as much space as conditions allow. Moving to another lane when it can be done safely may increase the distance between passing traffic and people on the shoulder. Reduced speed can also give drivers more time to react.
People outside a disabled vehicle face additional hazards from passing traffic. Staying as far from moving lanes as possible and using appropriate warning equipment can help improve visibility. Roadside assistance and towing personnel also use safety procedures designed to reduce exposure to passing vehicles.
