Hailey
Two separate car accidents near Emporia on the Kansas Turnpike left two people injured on Monday afternoon. According to the Emporia Fire Department, both incidents took place in southwest Lyon County, just a few miles apart.
Emergency crews worked quickly to help the victims and clear the highway to avoid further danger to drivers.
First Accident – Car Hydroplanes and Hits Barrier
The first crash happened around 2:20 p.m. at mile marker 118 southbound, about nine miles southwest of Emporia.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP), 23-year-old Elizabeth Conrad from Wichita was driving in the inside lane when her car hydroplaned on the wet road and slammed into the center barrier wall.
Conrad was wearing her seatbelt, which likely prevented serious injuries. She was taken to Newman Regional Health with minor injuries and was treated for her condition. Authorities believe slippery conditions caused the crash.
The KHP reminded all drivers that rain and water buildup on highways can cause vehicles to lose traction, even at normal speeds. Drivers are urged to slow down during rain and avoid sudden turns or braking to stay safe.
Details of the First Crash
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Mile Marker 118, Southbound Kansas Turnpike |
| Time | 2:20 PM |
| Driver | Elizabeth Conrad, 23, from Wichita |
| Injury Status | Minor injuries |
| Hospital | Newman Regional Health |
| Cause | Hydroplaning on wet road |
Second Accident – Another Crash Hours Later
Less than two hours later, another accident happened near mile marker 117 around 4:30 p.m. The Emporia Fire Department was called back to the scene after receiving a second emergency alert from the Kansas Turnpike.
At least one person was taken to Newman Regional Health, but officials have not yet released details about their condition or the cause of the wreck. The KHP said the case remains under investigation.
Traffic slowed down for a short time while emergency teams cleared debris and helped those involved. Drivers in the area were asked to take extra care as weather conditions worsened through the afternoon.
Details of the Second Crash
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Mile Marker 117, Kansas Turnpike |
| Time | 4:30 PM |
| Injuries | At least one person injured |
| Hospital | Newman Regional Health |
| Status | Under investigation |
Safety Reminder for Turnpike Drivers
Officials say these two accidents show how dangerous wet roads can be, even for experienced drivers. The Kansas Highway Patrol urges everyone to check their tire pressure and tread, keep headlights on in the rain, and always wear seatbelts.
Hydroplaning often happens when a car moves too fast over standing water, causing the tires to lose grip and slide uncontrollably. To reduce this risk, drivers should slow down, drive in the middle lanes where water collects less, and avoid using cruise control in heavy rain.
The two accidents on the Kansas Turnpike near Emporia serve as a reminder that weather conditions can quickly change driving safety.
Thanks to the quick response from Emporia Fire and the Kansas Highway Patrol, both incidents were handled efficiently, and serious injuries were avoided. Drivers across Kansas are encouraged to stay alert, drive carefully during wet weather, and keep safety as their first priority.