Union, MO (August 18, 2025) – A multi-vehicle crash on Sunday afternoon along US Highway 50 in Franklin County left one driver hospitalized and caused significant damage to two vehicles. The incident occurred around 4:45 p.m. on August 17 at the intersection with Route AT, just west of Union.
According to investigators from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 2016 Acura MDX driven by a 48-year-old woman from Imperial was heading eastbound on US-50 when she entered the left turn lane to Route AT. While making her turn, she crossed into the path of a westbound 2002 Mazda Protege, operated by a 23-year-old man from Union. The front of the Mazda collided with the side of the turning Acura.
Following the initial impact, the Acura continued into the opposing lane and struck a third vehicle—a 2018 Hyundai Tucson traveling southbound—on its front-left side. The Hyundai, driven by a 59-year-old Washington woman, sustained only minor damage and was able to be driven from the scene.
The driver of the Acura MDX sustained moderate injuries in the crash and was transported by the Union Ambulance District to Mercy Hospital in Washington for further treatment. All parties involved were wearing seatbelts, and no other injuries were reported.
Both the Acura and the Mazda were towed from the scene by Vogelgesang Towing. The crash remains under investigation, and no citations have been announced at this time.
We extend our best wishes to the injured woman and hope for her full and swift recovery.
Intersection Accidents on Missouri Highways
Crashes involving left-turning vehicles are a frequent hazard on Missouri highways, particularly at intersections like US-50 and Route AT in Franklin County. In this case, the Acura’s turn directly into the path of an oncoming Mazda resulted in a violent impact and a secondary collision—both of which could have caused even more serious injuries.
Intersection-related crashes are a leading contributor to injury collisions across the state. These accidents often stem from misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic or attempting to beat a gap in traffic that isn’t wide enough. When higher-speed roadways like US-50 are involved, the risks of serious injury or multi-vehicle involvement are greatly increased.
This crash underscores how a single miscalculated turn can escalate rapidly, involving multiple vehicles and requiring emergency medical response. The fact that the Acura traveled into the opposite lane after the first collision and struck a third vehicle emphasizes the importance of understanding vehicle momentum after impact.
Drivers must exercise extra caution when making left turns across multi-lane highways. Even with a turn lane present, clear visibility, proper judgment, and patience are key. While the 23-year-old Mazda driver and the 59-year-old Tucson driver were uninjured, the crash still resulted in vehicle loss and medical transport for the injured Acura driver.
In situations like these, recovery involves more than just medical care—it can mean missed work, insurance complications, and vehicle replacement. Accessing trusted support and understanding legal options early can make a significant difference.
At Local Accident Reports, we’re dedicated to supporting crash victims and their families throughout Missouri. Whether you need help with recovery, medical resources, or insurance claims, we’ll connect you with the guidance you need to take the next step forward. Reach out today to learn how we can help.
