St. Clair, MO (May 18, 2025) – First responders, including paramedics, assessed and treated individuals hurt in the crash following a rear-end collision that occurred late Saturday morning at SE 1000 Rd and Missouri 13 in St. Clair County. The accident led to one person being transported to the hospital for further evaluation.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 11:15 AM when a 2012 Chrysler Town and Country van, driven by an 86-year-old man from Lenexa, KS, was stopped at the intersection. A westbound 2021 RAM 1500 pickup truck, operated by a 38-year-old male from Stockton, MO, struck the Chrysler from behind.
Both vehicles sustained minor damage and were able to be driven from the scene. A 71-year-old female passenger in the Chrysler was injured in the crash. She was wearing a seatbelt and was transported by ambulance to Citizens Memorial Hospital (CMH) in Bolivar for treatment of minor injuries.
Emergency crews managed the scene, which is located near the rural town of Collins, and ensured that traffic was safely redirected while the vehicles were cleared. The cause of the collision is being reviewed, but the incident was classified as a rear-end crash resulting from the RAM 1500 failing to stop in time.
Our thoughts are with the injured passenger, and we hope for her full and swift recovery.
Rear-End Crashes at Rural Intersections in Missouri
Rear-end accidents at intersections, like the one at SE 1000 Rd and MO-13, are common on rural roads where sudden stops can catch following drivers off guard. Unlike urban roads with traffic signals, rural intersections often rely on stop signs or minimal signage, creating potential hazards for inattentive or speeding drivers.
The Missouri Department of Transportation reports that more than 20% of all injury-causing crashes in the state involve rear-end impacts, many of which happen at or near intersections. While typically less severe than head-on collisions, these crashes still present serious risks, particularly for older adults, who may be more vulnerable to injury even in lower-speed impacts.
In areas like Collins, where state highways intersect with county roads, frequent stops are necessary but not always expected by drivers who may assume continuous flow. It’s critical that all motorists maintain a safe following distance, remain alert to stopping vehicles, and reduce speed when approaching known junctions.
The use of seatbelts was confirmed in this incident and likely helped minimize injury severity. Passengers, particularly seniors, are encouraged to monitor their condition after a crash, even if symptoms appear minor.
If you or someone close to you has been injured in a rural intersection crash, contact Local Accident Reports for guidance and help accessing resources to support your recovery.