I-44 crash in construction zone leads to second crash, serious injuries

A Springfield man was transported by ambulance with serious injuries on Monday, Aug. 7, after he was struck by a vehicle. At approximately 3:44 a.m. Michael L. Harris, 61, of Springfield was traveling westbound through a construction zone on I-44, eight miles west of Springfield, when he struck a temporary barrier in the construction zone and came to rest across both lanes of traffic. Harris then exited his vehicle and was walking around the rear of his vehicle when he was struck by a 2009 Chevrolet Impala driven by Matthew M. Abbey, 30, of Springfield.
Abbey’s vehicle was then struck from behind by a 2020 Honda CRV, driven by Ronda E. Bowles, 60, of Lexington, Ky.
Harris was transported by ambulance to Cox South in Springfield with serious injuries.
Both drivers involved in the second crash were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident and all were insured.
Harris’ vehicle was totaled and towed from the scene. Both Abbey and Bowles’ vehicles sustained moderate damage and were able to be driven from the scene.