Merriam, KS – Passenger Critically Hurt in Motorcycle Crash on I-35 at Shawnee Mission Pkwy

Merriam, KS (August 18, 2025) – A passenger was left with life-threatening injuries Sunday afternoon, August 17,  after a motorcycle collided with an SUV on Interstate 35 near Shawnee Mission Parkway.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the crash occurred around 2:50 p.m. when 48-year-old James D. Schumacher of Kansas City, Kansas, was riding a 1986 Harley-Davidson northbound alongside a 2017 Lincoln MKC driven by 25-year-old Daniella L. Kowaliuk of Brantford.

Investigators said Schumacher attempted to change lanes but side-swiped the Lincoln, causing him to lose control of the motorcycle. The bike overturned on the interstate.

Schumacher’s passenger, 59-year-old Dawn Wilbrew, suffered life-threatening injuries and was rushed to the University of Kansas Medical Center. Schumacher was also hospitalized with minor injuries. Authorities noted that neither he nor Wilbrew was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Kowaliuk was not injured.

Troopers continue to investigate the circumstances of the collision.

Our thoughts are with Dawn Wilbrew and her loved ones, and we hope for her full recovery. The investigation into this serious crash is ongoing.

Motorcycle Accidents in Kansas

Motorcycle crashes often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection riders have compared to drivers of passenger vehicles. Interstates like I-35, with fast-moving traffic and heavy lane changes, are especially dangerous for motorcyclists. According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, motorcycle accidents account for a disproportionate number of serious injuries and fatalities compared to other types of crashes.

One critical factor in motorcycle safety is helmet use. Studies consistently show that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of fatal head injuries. In this Merriam crash, authorities confirmed that neither the rider nor the passenger wore helmets, which may have worsened the outcome.

In the aftermath of a motorcycle crash, victims and families face overwhelming challenges. Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and emotional trauma often create long-term struggles. Kansas law allows injured victims to pursue compensation for these damages, but insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help by investigating the crash, working with medical experts, and negotiating with insurers to ensure victims receive fair compensation.

The tragic crash on I-35 serves as a reminder of the risks motorcyclists face on Kansas highways. For riders and passengers, taking safety precautions, especially helmet use, can be life-saving. For those injured, medical care and legal guidance are critical to recovery and rebuilding their lives after such devastating incidents.

Fill out the contact form to schedule a free consultation with a top Interstate 35 car accident lawyer.