Junction City, KS (September 1, 2024) – Two people were injured after a vehicle collision outside of Junction City on Saturday, August 31. The accident took place on Interstate 70 WB near K-57 late that evening around 9:55 p.m. Local reports revealed that a 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and a 2016 Nissan Altima were both headed westbound when they entered a construction zone between mile markers 295 and 300.
The driver of the Nissan, 27-year-old Michael W. Catt of Wichita, slowed due to roadway conditions. The driver of the Chevy, 40-year-old Samuel A. Mertens of Kearny, NE, failed to slow down and crashed into the rear of the Altima. Mertens continued traveling around the Nissan. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene to provide aid to the involved parties. Both Catt and his passenger, 54-year-old Wendy R. Catt also from Wichita, were injured in the impact. The victims were transported by ambulance to Salina Regional Health Center for the treatment of sustained injuries. No further information on the accident is currently available. An ongoing investigation into the cause of the crash is in progress.
Our thoughts are with the injured victims and their families at this time. We hope for their full recovery.
Rear-end Collisions in Kansas
You never really know when someone will hit you from behind on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that these types of accidents happen a lot in the United States. They are responsible for more than 28 percent of all reported accidents and nearly six percent of all road deaths. There are more than 1.7 million rear-end accidents every year, which hurt more than 500,000 people and kill 1,700 others. Statistics show that most of these crashes happen because drivers are talking on their phones and can’t stop in time to avoid a car that pulls out in front of them. You need to be ready to get back on your feet after a serious crash by working with a Junction City car accident lawyer at Bretz Injury Law. Contact our law offices today at 620-524-0080.
