Clay, MO – Motorcyclist Hurt in Crash on 35 near Levee

Clay, MO (May 20, 2025) – A two-motorcycle crash occurred late Sunday morning, May 18, along Interstate 35 just south of the Levee in Clay County. The accident happened around 11:45 a.m. and left both riders injured.

According to reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 2022 Aprilia motorcycle and a 2016 BMW motorcycle were both headed north on Interstate 35 when they collided under unclear circumstances. The crash led to injuries for both drivers involved. A 20-year-old male from Garnett, Kansas, riding the Aprilia, sustained minor injuries. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and was transported for medical treatment.

The 22-year-old male riding the BMW motorcycle, from Independence, Missouri, was also injured. His bike sustained moderate damage and was towed by a private party. The Aprilia motorcycle was towed by GT Tow due to damage. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. Traffic in the area was slowed temporarily as responders worked to clear the scene. Both individuals had been wearing appropriate safety gear, which likely reduced the severity of their injuries.

We hope those injured in this accident make a timely recovery.

Motorcycle Accidents in Missouri

Motorcycle accidents in Missouri remain a serious concern for both riders and public safety officials. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, motorcycle crashes account for a disproportionate number of serious injuries and fatalities compared to other vehicle types. Many of these incidents occur during the warmer months when more motorcycles are on the road.

Let’s look at some key motorcycle safety concerns and factors that often come into play:

• Lane Sharing and Visibility Issues: Motorcycles are smaller and can easily be missed in a driver’s blind spot. When drivers fail to check their surroundings or misjudge a motorcycle’s speed, lane changes can turn dangerous. Visibility continues to be one of the leading causes of motorcycle crashes.
• Road Hazards and Poor Infrastructure: Potholes, loose gravel, and poorly maintained roads can lead to loss of control for motorcyclists. Unlike cars, motorcycles are far more vulnerable to surface changes. In many cases, local governments may be held accountable for not maintaining safe road conditions.
• Distracted Driving by Others: Motorcyclists often fall victim to drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted. A moment of inattention can lead to life-altering consequences when motorcycles are involved.
• Weather-Related Incidents: Rain and high winds can increase braking distances and reduce grip for motorcycles. Many riders are caught in sudden changes in weather, making it critical to always stay alert and adjust riding practices accordingly.
• Failure to Yield at Intersections: Intersections remain hotspots for motorcycle collisions. Drivers who misjudge a motorcycle’s speed or simply do not see them may pull out or turn in front of the rider, leaving no time to react.

If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our motorcycle accident attorney at Wallentine Injury Law right away. Speaking with an attorney quickly after a crash can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation. You may face mounting medical bills, missed time from work, and emotional stress. Our Clay motorcycle accident attorneys understand how to approach each case to help riders and their families get through difficult times.

At Wallentine Injury Law, we believe no one should have to face the aftermath of a motorcycle crash alone. Our team offers free consultations to help you understand your legal options. We focus solely on personal injury cases so we can give your situation the attention it deserves. You don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Let our Kansas City-based firm be your advocate. Call us at 913-934-6333 to get started. We’ll take the time to listen, explain the process, and help you make informed decisions. When you call, you speak directly with our legal team—real people who care about your recovery and your future.

Notes: Our writers utilized secondary sources when writing this news article about an accident. We have not independently reviewed all of the circumstances surrounding this accident; therefore, please get in touch with Wallentine Injury Law, LLC right away if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will update the post with the most accurate information currently available.  A post will be removed upon request.

Disclaimer: We hope that by raising awareness about driving hazards, drivers will be more cautious when operating a motor vehicle and avoid being seriously injured in a collision. This accident news post is not a business solicitation. The content of this post is not intended to serve as medical or legal advice. This post’s featured image was not captured at the accident scene depicted in the post.