Pulaski County, MO (May 12, 2026) – Two people were injured in a Monday morning crash in Pulaski County at the intersection of Highway Z and Teardrop Road. The collision occurred around 9:19 a.m. on May 11 and involved two vehicles.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 2009 Ford F-150 was traveling westbound on Highway Z when a 2015 Kia Sorento, traveling northbound, failed to yield. The vehicles collided in the intersection.
The impact forced the Kia off the right side of the roadway, where it overturned. Emergency units responded to the scene and assisted both drivers.
A 21-year-old woman from Rolla, who was driving the Ford, was injured in the crash. The 47-year-old woman from Waynesville, who was driving the Kia, sustained serious injuries and was transported for medical care.
Authorities have not released further details as the investigation continues.
Our thoughts are with both women as they recover.
Why Failure-to-Yield Crashes Often Lead to Severe Intersection Accidents
Failure-to-yield collisions frequently occur at rural and semi-rural intersections where traffic control may be limited, or drivers misjudge oncoming vehicles. These crashes often happen quickly, leaving little time for either driver to react.
When vehicles enter an intersection from crossing directions, the angle of impact can increase the severity of injuries, especially at higher speeds. In some cases, one vehicle may be forced off the roadway, leading to rollovers or secondary impacts.
Investigators typically review right-of-way rules, vehicle speed, and roadway visibility when determining how these crashes occurred. Intersection design and driver attention are also key factors in understanding what led to the collision.