The crash occurred on October 21st, 2024, at 5:30 PM on State Highway 32, 8 miles east of Salem, Missouri. A 2008 Chevrolet Aveo, operated by a 21-year-old, and a 2021 International Conventional semi-truck, operated by a 62-year-old, were both headed westbound. As the driver in the Chevrolet attempted to pass the semi-truck, they swerved to avoid an oncoming vehicle and lost control. This caused them to impact with a 2021 Nissan Versa headed eastbound, operated by a 34-year-old with a 41-year-old passenger, head on before then striking the semi-truck they had attempted to pass. The 21-year-old Chevrolet driver and the 34-year-old Nissan driver were both pronounced deceased on the scene. The 41-year-old passenger was seriously injured and transported via Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. The Chevrolet Aveo and the Nissan Versa were both totaled, while the International tractor trailer was moderately damaged.
It can take only a moment of distraction or a single decision for a devastating car accident to occur. Highway speeds can make it difficult to react to an oncoming out of-control driver, and unfortunately, head-on collisions like this one result in the most fatalities of any type of crash event in the United States (U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, 2018). Recovering from the serious injury or death of yourself or someone you know can present numerous financial and logistical challenges. At the AW Smith Law Firm, our experienced attorneys will work on your behalf to get the compensation you need so you can focus on recuperating physically and emotionally. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash like this, do not hesitate to reach out for guidance and support.