Putnam Co, MO (September 9, 2025) – Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured victims following a collision Monday evening in Putnam County. The crash was reported around 5:30 p.m. on 300th St, approximately six miles southeast of Unionville.
According to reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, an 18-year-old woman from Green City was operating a 2018 Polaris Razor southbound when it collided with a northbound 2008 Ford F-350 driven by a 16-year-old boy, also from Green City. The two vehicles met at a corner on 300th St and crashed into each other. The impact left the Polaris with extensive damage, while the Ford sustained only minor damage.
The 18-year-old woman suffered moderate injuries and was transported by private vehicle to Putnam County Memorial Hospital for treatment. Troopers confirmed that neither driver was using a safety device at the time of the collision. The Ford was secured roadside, while the Polaris was towed from the scene by a family member.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident with assistance from local responders.
Our thoughts are with the injured woman, and we wish her a full and speedy recovery.
ATV and Off-Road Vehicle Accidents in Missouri
ATV and utility vehicle crashes remain a growing concern in Missouri, particularly in rural counties like Putnam where off-road and agricultural use is common. These vehicles, while popular for recreation and utility, offer far less protection than passenger vehicles, leaving operators vulnerable to serious injury during collisions.
This Unionville crash demonstrates some of the key risks associated with ATV use on rural roadways. Meeting larger vehicles at curves or blind corners can be especially dangerous, particularly when safety equipment such as helmets or restraints is not used. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has noted that ATV accidents often result in moderate to severe injuries due to rollover risks, limited stability, and lack of protective enclosures.
Younger drivers are also frequently involved in ATV crashes. With limited experience and developing judgment, both teens and young adults face elevated risks when operating off-road vehicles, especially on public roadways where they may encounter larger, heavier traffic.
To reduce these risks, safety officials encourage helmet use, restraint systems when available, and limiting ATV travel to designated off-road trails rather than public roads. Defensive driving and slower speeds around curves and intersections can also play a critical role in preventing accidents.
Accidents involving ATVs often leave victims and families coping with medical expenses, extended recovery times, and emotional strain. Seeking appropriate medical care and understanding available legal and community resources is an important part of recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an ATV accident in Missouri, contact Local Accident Reports for guidance and support tailored to your situation.
