Independence, MO – Multi‑Vehicle Crash on I‑70 Results in Injuries

Independence, MO (June 17, 2025) – Emergency crews were dispatched to eastbound Interstate 70 near mile marker 29 just after 3 p.m. following a multi‑vehicle collision. At least one person was injured and transported to an area hospital.

On June 16, troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated the crash, which occurred behind stopped traffic on eastbound I‑70 in Jackson County. A 20‑year‑old male from Fulton, driving a 1999 Dodge Ram 3500, rear‑ended a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado driven by a 36‑year‑old male from Columbia. That collision then pushed the Silverado into the rear of a 2022 Chevrolet Traverse operated by a 77‑year‑old male from Odessa, who was wearing a seat belt.

The Silverado driver, who was restrained, suffered minor injuries and was taken to Centerpoint Hospital by SnI Valley Fire Department. Both the Dodge and Silverado were towed, while the Traverse was driven away from the scene. Oak Grove Police and Jackson County Sheriff’s Department assisted with traffic control and scene management. Investigators are still looking into the factors that led to the chain reaction rear‑end crash.

Our hopes are with everyone involved for a full and swift recovery.

Car Accidents in Missouri

Missouri sees a high number of car accidents each year, with many stemming from rear-end collisions on major highways. Statistics show that distracted driving, speeding, and failing to maintain a safe following distance contribute significantly to crash rates across the state. In 2023 alone, more than 10,000 people were injured in rear-end collisions on Missouri roads. These types of accidents often increase in areas with heavy traffic flow and during times of congestion. It remains important for motorists across Missouri to stay alert and maintain safe distances to prevent similar incidents.

Here’s some key information to help readers better understand common risks and what to be aware of after an accident:

• Following distance concerns: In heavy traffic, stopping suddenly is common. If drivers don’t leave enough space, it’s easy to cause a chain‑reaction collision that involves multiple vehicles.
• Distracted driving risks: Even a momentary distraction, like glancing at a phone or adjusting settings, can reduce reaction time enough for a rear‑end crash.
• Seat belt usage matters: While restraint doesn’t always prevent crashes, it significantly reduces the risk of serious injury—like in this crash, only the un‑belted driver experienced total vehicle loss.
• Older driver considerations: Drivers over 70 may have slower reaction times. When traffic stops suddenly, older motorists can be at greater risk of being struck from behind.

If you’ve been involved in a similar crash, it’s important to reach out to a car accident attorney right away. The Independence car accident attorneys at Wallentine Injury Law are available to guide you through every step of the legal process. Many crash victims aren’t aware of their rights after an accident, and evidence can disappear quickly unless promptly preserved. Having a skilled attorney examine available crash reports, medical records, and traffic camera footage can help strengthen your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for injuries, vehicle damage, and time off work. Don’t wait—contact our team in Independence today to learn more about your options.

Wallentine Injury Law offers free consultations to help Missouri crash victims and their families. Our Independence car accident attorneys understand the stress and uncertainty that follow a crash. We combine a caring, personal approach with thorough crash scene investigation to build strong claims. Over the years, our firm has recovered millions on behalf of injured Missourians.

When you call 913‑934‑6333, you’ll speak directly with someone who will listen and work beside you. Moreover, we’ll connect you with trusted medical providers and do our best to ensure your bills are covered up front. Let Wallentine Injury Law handle insurance companies while you focus on healing. We’re ready to fight for your rights from day one.

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.