Newton, KS (June 12, 2026) – A 77-year-old woman was hospitalized with serious injuries after a traffic accident on US-50 west of Newton on Wednesday afternoon.
The collision was reported at approximately 12:05 p.m. on US-50 just east of South Ridge Road, about three miles west of the city. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2021 Mazda CX-5 was traveling eastbound when it moved onto the right shoulder and then attempted a U-turn across the highway.
Officials said the Mazda entered the path of a 2006 Volvo semitrailer, and the two vehicles collided. Both vehicles came to rest on the south side of the highway.
Sandra Louise Pope, 77, of Newton, was driving the Mazda and was the sole occupant of the SUV. She was taken to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita with serious injuries. The truck driver, Aron Floyd Coltrane, 48, of La Harpe, was not injured. Both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the wreck.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation by state troopers. Our thoughts are with Ms. Pope as she continues her recovery.
What Risks Are Associated With U-Turns on High-Speed Highways?
Making a U-turn on a highway can be particularly hazardous because of the speed at which vehicles travel and the limited time drivers have to react. Even when visibility is clear, approaching traffic may close the distance much faster than expected.
Large commercial trucks require longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles due to their size and weight. When another vehicle unexpectedly enters their path, avoiding contact can be difficult. Highway crossings and turning maneuvers often demand careful judgment of traffic gaps and vehicle speeds.
After a serious roadway accident involving a U-turn, investigators commonly examine vehicle positions, driver actions, sight distances, and roadway design. They may also review physical evidence from the highway to determine how the sequence of movements developed and whether any contributing factors played a role in the collision.
