A single-vehicle crash is exactly what it sounds like, an accident which involves just one vehicle. Unlike multi-car collisions or chain reaction accidents, these accidents happen without another car directly colliding with yours. However, just because you crashed your own car doesn’t always mean you are automatically at fault.
Understanding when you might be liable—and when you might not be—can make a significant difference in your case.
One of drivers’ most significant concerns after a solo crash is whether they could face legal or financial consequences. If you were driving under the influence and hit a fixed object, you could be criminally liable. But what if a pothole, debris, or a sudden animal crossing caused you to swerve off the road? Insurance companies and legal experts examine the details of every accident, considering all possible factors before determining fault.
Surprisingly, single-vehicle accidents account for a significant portion of fatal crashes in the U.S. According to the National Safety Council, crashes involving fixed objects, pedestrians, and non-collision incidents make up 54% of fatalities and 56% of fatal crashes, despite being responsible for just 25% or less of all crashes and injuries. While they may seem less severe, these accidents often have devastating consequences.
It’s also important to note that these accidents don’t usually include crashes where someone hits a parked car or a building. Those are considered property damage incidents and follow different legal guidelines.
What Are Some of the Reasons Single-Vehicle Accidents Happen in Missouri?
As you might suspect, accidents involving just one car happen for all sorts of different reasons—some within the driver’s control and others completely unexpected. The top rated St. Louis car accident lawyers at Beck & Beck’s law firm have narrowed the most common causes of these crashes to include:
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions can cause a driver to lose control, especially on winding roads or during bad weather. Even if you’re technically following the posted limit, going too fast for slick or uneven surfaces can still lead to a crash.
- Inexperienced drivers: New drivers often struggle with quick decision-making, especially when facing unexpected situations. Misjudging a sharp curve, overcorrecting the steering, or panicking when something crosses their path can easily result in an accident.
- Distracted driving: Looking at your phone, adjusting the radio, or even taking a sip of coffee can distract you from the road for just a few seconds—long enough to swerve off the road or hit an object.
- Drowsy driving: Falling asleep at the wheel doesn’t always mean downright dozing off. Even a moment of “microsleep” or extreme fatigue can cause a driver to drift into a guardrail, tree, or ditch.
- Drunk driving and/or drugged driving: Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination—all of which can lead to losing control of their vehicle and causing a single-car crash.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, cracked pavement, and loose gravel can cause tires to slip or vehicles to veer off course. Construction zones with sudden lane shifts or narrow paths also increase the risk of accidents.
- Bad weather: Missouri weather can be unpredictable. Rain, ice, snow, and even high winds make driving hazardous. Slippery roads or reduced visibility often force drivers into last-minute maneuvers that can result in a collision.
- Animals or objects in the road: Swerving to avoid hitting a deer, a fallen tree branch, or debris from another vehicle can cause drivers to run off the road or hit something else.
- Mechanical issues: Brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering malfunctions can make it impossible for a driver to maintain control, often leading to sudden, unavoidable accidents.
- Sun glare: Bright sunlight at the wrong angle can temporarily blind a driver, making it difficult to see the road, obstacles, or other vehicles—resulting in an unexpected crash.
While these accidents only involve one car, the causes are often more complex than they appear. Factors like road maintenance, weather conditions, and even other drivers’ actions can play a role. Understanding why these accidents happen is the first step toward protecting yourself and knowing your legal options.
How Does Liability Work When You Crash Your Car?
Crashing your car in a single-vehicle accident doesn’t automatically mean you’re at fault. Liability depends on the cause of the crash. While the driver is often presumed responsible, there are cases where outside factors shift the blame. Let’s break it down with a few examples.
Scenario 1: Another driver causes you to crash
Imagine driving carefully when another car suddenly cuts you off, forcing you to swerve and hit a tree to avoid a collision. Even though your car is the only one damaged, the other driver’s reckless actions triggered the crash. In this case, that driver can be held liable, even if they didn’t physically hit your car. These situations can get tricky if the at-fault driver leaves the scene, so gathering witness statements or dashcam footage can help support your claim.
Scenario 2: You lose control without outside interference
Now, let’s say you’re driving alone, run off the road, and hit a guardrail — no other vehicles or obstacles were involved. Here, the liability usually falls on you. You’re generally considered responsible for the accident, whether due to speeding, distraction, or a simple mistake. Your auto insurance may cover the damage depending on your policy, but you would be seen as the at-fault party.
Scenario 3: Poor road conditions are to blame
What if you hit a massive pothole, causing a tire blowout that sends you crashing into a fence? In some cases, you may be able to hold a government agency or contractor responsible for failing to maintain safe road conditions. However, proving this can be challenging, as they may argue you should have adjusted your speed or been more cautious. Substantial evidence is crucial in this situation.
What Are Some Situations Where the Driver in a Single-Vehicle Accident Is Not Liable?
In some situations, another party’s actions or negligence directly caused the crash. Let’s break down when a driver might not be liable.
Another Driver’s Negligence
As we mentioned, sometimes, another driver’s reckless actions—like swerving into your lane or cutting you off—can force you to crash while they drive away. Their negligence may be to blame even if their car never touches yours.
Road Hazards and Debris
Unexpected road hazards can also cause accidents. Debris falling from another vehicle or a pedestrian stepping into your path can force you to swerve or lose control. In these cases, the person responsible for the hazard may share liability.
Vehicle Defects and Mechanical Failures
Mechanical failures—such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering defects—can cause single-vehicle crashes. The manufacturer or mechanic might be held accountable if a faulty part or poor repairs caused your accident.
Poor Road Conditions or Construction Zone Negligence
Hazardous road conditions, like potholes, uneven pavement, or poorly marked construction zones, can lead to accidents. They could be liable if a government agency or contractor fails to maintain safe roads or provide proper warnings.
Why Legal Support Matters
Determining fault in these cases can be complicated. Having a skilled attorney on your side helps uncover the actual cause of the crash, gather evidence, and protect your rights.
Does Car Insurance In Missouri Cover Accidents Involving a Single Vehicle?
Yes, car insurance in Missouri can cover single-vehicle accidents, but the type of coverage that applies depends on the cause of the crash. Let’s break it down:
Collision Coverage: This typically covers damages when you hit a fixed object — like a telephone pole, guardrail, or tree — or if your car rolls over. Since these accidents are often preventable, collision insurance helps pay for repairs or the replacement of your vehicle minus your deductible.
Comprehensive Coverage: This applies when the accident is caused by something beyond your control. For example, comprehensive insurance may cover the damages if you hit a deer, a tree branch falls on your car, or you swerve to avoid debris and crash. It also includes non-accident-related events like theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
If you only carry Missouri’s minimum liability insurance — designed to cover injuries and damages you cause to others — you likely won’t have coverage for your vehicle’s repairs in a single-vehicle accident. Many drivers opt for additional collision or comprehensive policies for better protection.
Handling Insurance Claims After a Single-Vehicle Accident
Filing a claim for a single-vehicle accident can be challenging, as insurers often assume the driver is at fault. To strengthen your claim, gathering as much evidence as possible is crucial. This may include:
- Photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage.
- Witness statements, if anyone saw what happened.
- A police report detailing the cause of the crash would be helpful, significantly if external factors like road hazards, poor weather, or another driver’s actions contributed to it.
If a third party contributed to the accident, such as a negligent driver, a government agency responsible for road maintenance, or a vehicle manufacturer, you can shift liability and pursue additional compensation.
Essential Steps to Take if You’ve Been in a Single-Vehicle Accident in Missouri
Being in a single-vehicle accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the proper steps to take can protect your Safety and legal rights.
- Don’t Leave the Scene: Never leave the scene, no matter how minor the crash seems. It’s not only illegal in Missouri, but it can also hurt your insurance claim. If you hit property — like a fence, guardrail, or parked car — leaving without reporting the accident could result in criminal charges or higher insurance premiums. If you’ve hit an animal or pedestrian, driving away could escalate to felony charges. The safest and smartest move is to stay put.
- Prioritize Safety: Turn on your hazard lights immediately. If your car is drivable and safe, move it to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic. If the vehicle is inoperable or the area feels unsafe, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and wait for emergency responders.
- Call the Police: Even if you’re the only person involved, report the accident. A police report creates an official record essential for insurance claims — mainly if road conditions, debris, or another driver’s actions contributed to the crash.
- Document the Scene: Take clear photos of the damage to your car, the surrounding area, and any hazards that may have caused the accident. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information. This evidence can be crucial if you need to challenge liability.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance provider immediately to report the accident. Be ready to share the police report number, photos, and witness statements. Whether you have collision or comprehensive coverage will determine how your claim is handled.
- Seek Legal Advice if Needed: If a third party played a role in your crash, speaking with an experienced Missouri car accident attorney can help you understand your options.
Taking these steps promptly can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing fair compensation.
Skilled Attorneys Specializing in Missouri Auto Accident Claims
At Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming a single-vehicle crash can be. Our experienced Missouri auto accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal and insurance challenges that follow. Whether you’re facing denied claims, unexpected liabilities, or injuries caused by factors beyond your control, we work tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Don’t face this alone. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Missouri, let Beck & Beck guide you through the following steps. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to fight for you every step of the way.
