A serious two-vehicle collision occurred early Monday morning, January 19, in Jefferson County, Missouri, leaving four people injured. The crash happened around 5:30 AM at the intersection of Gravois Road and Terrace Drive.
The accident occurred as a 2004 Dodge Durango was traveling southbound when it entered the northbound lane of traffic. A northbound 2017 Toyota Sienna attempted to avoid the oncoming vehicle but was unable to do so, and the front of the Dodge struck the front of the Toyota. Both vehicles sustained severe damage and were totaled before being towed from the scene.
The driver of the Toyota Sienna, a 43-year-old woman, sustained serious injuries and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment. Two passengers in the Toyota—a 15-year-old juvenile female and a 20-year-old woman—both sustained minor injuries and were also taken to the hospital. All occupants of the Toyota were reported to be wearing seatbelts.
The driver of the Dodge Durango, a 55-year-old woman, suffered serious injuries and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. She was not reported to have been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
Crashes involving vehicles crossing into oncoming lanes are among the most dangerous types of roadway incidents. When drivers are faced with a sudden, unexpected vehicle traveling in the wrong lane, there is often little time or space to react. These collisions frequently result in severe injuries due to the combined force of both vehicles moving toward each other.
Early morning driving hours can present additional risks, including reduced visibility and lower traffic volumes that may lead to higher travel speeds. This crash underscores the importance of maintaining lane control and remaining attentive at all times, particularly on roadways with opposing traffic where even a single deviation can have serious consequences.
All facts being reported upon are based on preliminary investigation done by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
