Sedalia, MO – Fatal Crash on Smasal Rd Leaves One Dead, Another Injured

Sedalia, MO (December 31, 2024) – A tragic single-vehicle crash occurred on the morning of December 28, east of Welliver Road on Smasal Road in Pettis County. The accident involved a 2005 Chevrolet Silverado that veered off the road, striking a creek embankment.

Authorities reported that the driver, a 17-year-old male from Sedalia, sustained fatal injuries in the crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 10:30 a.m. by PCAD paramedic Charisse Bauer.  An 18-year-old male passenger from Sedalia was also injured in the crash. He sustained moderate injuries and was transported to Bothwell Regional Hospital for treatment. Neither the driver nor the passenger was wearing a safety device at the time of the collision.

The crash is being investigated by CPL. A.S. Craig and MCIU CPL. R.V. McCormick, with assistance from Trooper M.G. Bennett and the Pettis County Sheriff’s Department. The Silverado was totaled, and it was removed from the scene by Don’s Towing.

Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased victim.

We hope the injured victim recovers quickly.

Car Accidents in Missouri

Each year in Missouri, thousands of people experience injuries due to car accidents that occur across the state. These incidents range from minor fender benders to severe collisions that change lives. While accidents can happen anywhere, intersections often become hotspots for crashes because of the high volume of traffic and complex driving maneuvers required.

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that around 36% of all traffic accidents in the United States occur at intersections. Missouri follows this national trend, with a large portion of accidents happening in these busy areas. These crashes often result in injuries caused by drivers who make poor decisions or fail to follow traffic laws. Some of the most common factors contributing to car accidents in Missouri include:

• Speeding: Drivers rushing through intersections increase the likelihood of collisions. The faster a vehicle moves, the less time a driver has to react to sudden changes, such as a car stopping ahead or a pedestrian crossing the street.
• Turning Vehicles: Many accidents occur when a driver is turning, whether left or right, at an intersection. Some drivers fail to yield the right of way, while others take turns too quickly or too widely, creating dangerous situations.
• Limited Visibility: Certain intersections may have poor visibility due to obstructions like trees, buildings, or improperly placed signs. Additionally, defective traffic lights, malfunctioning stop signs, or insufficient lighting can make it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians, leading to accidents.

If you have been injured in a car accident in Missouri, it is important to explore your legal options. Recovering from an accident often involves dealing with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Speaking with a Sedalia car accident attorney can provide valuable guidance on how to seek compensation for these challenges.

At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have been injured in car accidents. We know how overwhelming it can feel to face the physical pain and financial burdens that follow a crash. Our team works tirelessly to support accident victims and their families by handling the legal aspects of their cases. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we are committed to building a strong case and pursuing fair compensation for your injuries.

Our law firm recognizes that no two accidents are the same, and each client’s needs are unique. Whether the collision resulted from a speeding driver, a reckless turn, or an intersection with poor visibility, we are here to stand by your side and fight for your rights. Our approach is rooted in compassion and dedication, ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way.

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a car accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Contact Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, at 913-934-6333 to schedule a complimentary consultation. During this meeting, we will listen to your story, assess your case, and discuss how we can help you seek justice and compensation. Allow us to be your advocates during this challenging time as we work together toward a resolution that meets your needs.

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.