Joplin, MO – Two Vehicles Collide on Gateway Dr, Injuring One

Joplin, MO (April 8, 2025) – A two-vehicle collision that occurred just south of Joplin has left one man with injuries and caused significant damage to both vehicles involved.

On April 5, around 6:20 p.m., authorities responded to a crash on Gateway Drive, approximately three miles south of Joplin in Newton County. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash happened when a 2016 Kia Sedona attempted to make a left turn and crossed into the path of an oncoming 2021 Dodge Ram Laramie. The impact left the Kia with extensive damage and the Dodge Ram with minor damage. Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene.

Emergency responders, including Newton County Ambulance, arrived to assist those involved. The 55-year-old male driver of the Dodge Ram, from Webb City, suffered minor injuries and was transported to Mercy Hospital Joplin for treatment. The 70-year-old female driver of the Kia, a Joplin resident, was reportedly wearing her seatbelt and was not transported from the scene. Missouri State Highway Patrol’s CPL T.R. Morris and TPR M.J. Hickman were among those who assisted in the investigation.

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

Car Accidents in Missouri

Car accidents in Missouri occur daily, with thousands of crashes reported each year. According to data from the Missouri Department of Transportation, over 50,000 people were injured in traffic-related incidents last year across the state. These incidents range from minor fender-benders to serious, multi-vehicle collisions with life-altering consequences. Missouri drivers must stay alert to avoid contributing to these numbers.

When serious accidents happen, they often bring significant challenges. Here are a few common causes of crashes in Missouri:

• Improper Left Turns: Left-turn accidents are a leading cause of vehicle collisions in Missouri. Drivers attempting to turn often misjudge the speed or distance of oncoming traffic, especially at unprotected intersections. These miscalculations can lead to direct-impact crashes, which often result in severe injuries due to the angle and force of the collision.
• Failing to Yield: Many crashes occur when one driver fails to yield the right-of-way. Whether merging onto a highway or navigating a four-way stop, ignoring yield rules creates confusion and increases the risk of collision. Yield-related crashes often happen at intersections and rural roadways with less signage.
• Aging Drivers: Missouri has a growing population of older drivers, and while many remain capable, age-related changes can impact reaction time and decision-making. It’s important for aging drivers and their families to regularly evaluate driving fitness and stay updated on safe driving practices.
• Road Design and Visibility: Some rural Missouri roads can be narrow, poorly lit, or lack proper signage, all of which contribute to accidents. Poor visibility, especially during dusk or in inclement weather, increases the chance of crashes on these roadways.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash, it’s important to contact a Joplin car accident attorney as soon as possible. Our skilled legal team at Wallentine Injury Law can assist in documenting the incident, gathering evidence, and dealing with insurance companies. Immediate legal help ensures that critical information is preserved and your rights are protected from the beginning. Delaying action could affect your ability to recover compensation for medical bills, property damage, and other losses.

At Wallentine Injury Law, we understand how a car crash can turn life upside down. Our Joplin team has built a strong reputation for providing personal and compassionate legal support during difficult times. We offer free consultations and work one-on-one with our clients to understand their situation. If you’ve been hurt in a Missouri accident, you don’t have to face the process alone. Let us help you find clarity and confidence as you move forward. Call our team today at 913-934-6333 to get started on the road to recovery.

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.