Auto accidents in St. Louis, Missouri, can turn lives upside down in an instant, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. As experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers, our legal team knows that navigating the aftermath of a car crash can be daunting.
The complexities of insurance claims, proving liability, and dealing with opposing parties often make it challenging for victims to receive fair compensation.
Imagine you are on I-64, coming home from an event at the Fabulous Fox, and suddenly you are sideswiped by a drunk driver merging on to the freeway.
Or possibly you are going downtown to meet some friends at Ballpark Village and you are t-boned on S. Broadway by a distracted driver who ran a red light.
While these are hypothetical situations, they underscore the importance of understanding your rights and consulting with an experienced car accident attorney in St. Louis, Missouri, after a crash.
At our law firm, we understand the intricacies of Missouri’s car accident laws. We are dedicated to helping victims fight for their rights by thoroughly investigating each case, gathering crucial evidence, and aggressively advocating for our clients to ensure they receive the maximum compensation possible.
Do Car Accidents Happen Often in St. Louis, Missouri?
Unfortunately, auto accidents in St. Louis, Missouri, are all too common, with thousands of incidents reported annually. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, St. Louis City consistently ranks among the highest in the state for traffic accidents. This alarming trend highlights local drivers’ daily dangers and the need for increased safety measures.
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has prioritized reducing traffic-related fatalities through its Show-Me Zero initiative, aiming for zero deaths by 2030. Despite these efforts, the numbers remain concerning.
In the first quarter of 2024, Missouri saw 196 fatalities, a 15% increase from the same period in 2023. While there was a decrease in the second quarter, with 216 fatalities reported, the overall data shows that traffic deaths remain a significant issue.
One particularly troubling aspect of these accidents is the high number of fatalities due to the failure to wear seatbelts. MoDOT’s data reveals that proper seatbelt use could have prevented many deaths. The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety’s dashboard further emphasizes that not wearing seatbelts remains a leading cause of these tragic outcomes.
These statistics paint a sobering picture of the risks on St. Louis roads. As car crashes continue to occur frequently, it is crucial for drivers to prioritize safety and seek legal guidance when necessary to protect their rights and secure the compensation they deserve.
For immediate legal assistance from an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer, contact us today. We offer free case evaluations and are never too busy to speak with you.
Why Are So Many Car Crashes Happening in St. Louis, Missouri?
St. Louis, Missouri, has a higher-than-average rate of car accidents compared to other regions in the state. Several factors contribute to the frequency and severity of these crashes, making it a critical area of concern for local authorities and residents alike.
The combination of speeding, impaired driving, improper lane usage, distracted driving, fatigue, and traffic violations all contribute to the alarming number of accidents. Additionally, the high incidence of accidents involving young drivers and the influence of road and weather conditions further exacerbate the situation.
Understanding these factors is essential for developing strategies to reduce the number of accidents and improve road safety.
Driving With Excessive Speed
Speeding is Missouri’s leading cause of car accidents, and the St. Louis region is particularly affected. St. Louis ranks 4th highest among peer regions for fatal crashes involving speeding drivers.
Speeding reduces the time drivers have to react to unexpected situations, increases stopping distances, and intensifies the severity of crashes when they occur. To address this issue, the St. Louis Regional Safety Action Plan is being developed to implement measures to improve road safety and reduce speeding-related fatalities.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has become an increasingly common cause of car accidents in St. Louis, contributing to many of the crashes in the area. In Missouri, distracted drivers were involved in 92 fatal crashes in 2022.
Using cell phones, eating while driving, and other distractions take a driver’s attention away from the road, often leading to severe consequences. The state has implemented the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which prohibits using handheld devices while driving, to reduce the number of distracted driving incidents.
Impaired and Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is another significant cause of car accidents in St. Louis. Alcohol impairment slows reaction times and impairs judgment, leading to dangerous driving behaviors and often fatal outcomes.
In Missouri, alcohol-related crashes are a serious concern, with hundreds of fatalities occurring annually as a result of impaired driving. The state’s efforts to curb this issue include stricter enforcement of DUI laws and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing the number of alcohol-related accidents.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving, which includes behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and speeding, is a significant contributor to fatal car crashes in St. Louis. Aggressive drivers are involved in a substantial number of accidents, often with deadly outcomes. These behaviors increase the likelihood of collisions as they reduce the time available for all drivers to react to unexpected situations on the road.
Accidents Involving Young Drivers
Young drivers, mainly those aged 16-24, are disproportionately involved in car accidents in Missouri. In 2022, young drivers were involved in 17.4% of all fatal crashes in the state despite representing a smaller percentage of the overall driving population. The inexperience and propensity for risk-taking among young drivers contribute to their higher accident rates, making it a critical area of focus for road safety initiatives.
Road and Weather Conditions
While many car accidents in Missouri occur in clear weather conditions, road and weather conditions still significantly affect the overall number of crashes. In 2022, adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, and ice were factors in numerous accidents across the state.
Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and other weather-related hazards increase the likelihood of accidents, making it essential for drivers to adjust their driving habits accordingly during inclement weather.
The high rate of car accidents in St. Louis, Missouri, is a multifaceted issue influenced by various factors. Speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, aggressive driving, and the involvement of young drivers all contribute to the dangerous driving conditions in the area.
Additionally, road and weather conditions play a role in the frequency of accidents. Addressing these issues through education, enforcement, and infrastructure improvements is crucial to reducing the number of accidents and ensuring safer roads for all drivers in St. Louis.
To learn more about the leading causes of car accidents in Missouri, reach out to a skilled and experienced St. Louis car accident attorney at our law firm today. We offer free consultations.
How Is Fault Determined in Auto Accident Claims in St. Louis, Missouri?
Proving liability in a car accident in St. Louis, Missouri is a critical aspect of any auto accident case.
To establish liability in a car accident, you must show that the other party was negligent. Negligence occurs when a driver fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. This could include speeding, running a red light, or failing to yield the right of way. The burden of proof lies with the party claiming damages, meaning you must provide evidence that the other driver was at fault.
How to Prove Fault
Proving fault in a car accident typically requires a combination of the following evidence:
Role of Police Reports: The reports from the St. Louis Police Department provide an official account of the accident and often include the officer’s opinion on fault. A police report can provide an objective account of the accident, often including details about who was cited for traffic violations, which can be crucial in proving fault.
Eyewitness Testimony: Witnesses who saw the accident can offer an unbiased account of the events leading up to the crash. Their testimonies can support your version of events and help establish the other party’s negligence.
Photographs and Videos: Visual evidence from the scene, including photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries, can be instrumental in proving fault.
Traffic Camera Footage: If the accident occurred in an area with traffic cameras, this footage can provide clear evidence of how the accident happened and who was at fault.
Expert Analysis and Accident Reconstruction: In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be called upon to analyze the scene and provide an opinion on how the accident occurred and who was likely at fault. This scientific analysis can be compelling evidence.
Traffic Laws and Violations: Violations of traffic laws, such as running a red light or speeding, can indicate fault. Missouri courts consider these violations when determining liability.
Driver Statements: Statements made by drivers involved in the accident can provide valuable insights into how the crash occurred. Consistent and honest reporting is essential.
Insurance Investigations: Insurance companies in Missouri conduct their investigations to determine fault. However, their goal is often to minimize payouts, so having an experienced attorney to advocate for you is crucial.
Defending Yourself Against Fault
If you’re being accused of causing a car accident, gathering evidence demonstrating your lack of fault is essential. This can include:
- Showing Compliance with Traffic Laws: Demonstrating that you followed traffic laws during the accident can help refute negligence claims.
- Presenting Contradictory Evidence: Providing evidence contradicting the other party’s claims, such as witness statements or video footage, can weaken their case against you.
- Proving Shared Fault: In some cases, the other driver may also share responsibility for the accident. Missouri follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning even if you are partially at fault, you may still recover damages. However, this will reduce your compensation proportionally to your level of fault. The following section will discuss Missouri’s comparative negligence rule in more detail.
Successfully proving or defending against fault in a car accident case often requires a thorough investigation and a strategic approach to presenting evidence. Whether you’re seeking to establish the other party’s liability or defending yourself from being blamed, understanding the types of evidence that can support your case is crucial for a favorable outcome.
Determining and proving liability in an auto accident claims in Missouri can be challenging. If you have been involved in a collision, our experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers can help hold the negligent parties accountable.
How Will Missouri’s Comparative Negligence Rule Affect My St. Louis Car Accident Claim?
Missouri operates as an “at-fault” state regarding car accidents, meaning that the party responsible for causing the accident is also liable for the resulting damages. However, determining fault isn’t always straightforward, especially when multiple parties may share some responsibility for the collision. This is where Missouri’s comparative negligence rule comes into play.
A Deeper Look into Comparative Negligence in Missouri
Missouri follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, allowing accident victims to recover damages even if they are partially at fault. Under this rule, the compensation you can receive is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. For instance, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 30%.
This means that even if you played a role in causing the accident, you can still recover a portion of your damages, but your share of the fault will limit your recovery. This principle is detailed in Missouri Revised Statutes Section 537.765, which governs how comparative negligence is applied in civil cases.
Missouri’s Comparative Negligence Rule in Practice
Missouri’s comparative negligence rule is particularly important when multiple parties are involved in a car accident. Insurance companies and courts will evaluate the evidence to determine each party’s degree of fault. This assessment directly impacts the amount of compensation each party is entitled to receive.
For example, if you’re involved in a car accident in St. Louis and the investigation reveals you were speeding. At the same time, the other driver ran a red light, and both parties might share responsibility for the crash. If the court determines that you were 20% at fault and the other driver was 80% at fault, you would still be eligible to recover 80% of your total damages.
Missouri Section 537.067 governs the application of comparative negligence. This section outlines how fault is apportioned among the parties involved in a lawsuit.
The Impact on Your Accident Claim
Understanding how Missouri’s comparative negligence rule works is crucial when pursuing a car accident claim. It can affect your strategy when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court. If you’re partially at fault, it’s essential to have strong evidence limiting your blame percentage to maximize your potential compensation.
Ultimately, Missouri’s comparative negligence rule ensures that fault is fairly distributed, allowing you to recover damages even if you share some responsibility for the accident. However, the amount you can recover will be directly influenced by the degree of fault assigned to you. Therefore, working with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate this complex area of law and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case is crucial.
To learn more about Missouri’s comparative negligence rule, schedule a consultation with our experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers today.
What Types of Car Accidents Does Your Law Firm Handle?
Our law firm handles a variety of car accidents, ensuring you get the legal support you need. Here’s a breakdown of the types of crashes we specialize in:
- Head-On Collisions: These are among the most severe and deadly, particularly on rural roads. According to the National Safety Council, head-on collisions are responsible for a significant percentage of fatal crashes. If you or someone you know has been involved in such an accident, it’s crucial to pursue legal action to secure the compensation you deserve, as these crashes often result in life-changing injuries.
- Rear-End Collisions: Rear-end collisions are common, often caused by distracted driving. These accidents can result in whiplash and other injuries that may have long-term effects. The National Safety Council notes that rear-end crashes make up a large portion of motor vehicle accidents, and the injuries sustained can be more severe than they initially appear. Legal representation can help ensure that your rights are protected in such cases.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: Missouri law takes hit-and-run accidents very seriously, with strict penalties for those who flee the scene. Under Missouri Revised Statute §577.060, leaving the scene of an accident can result in severe legal consequences. If you’ve been a hit-and-run victim, it’s essential to have an attorney who understands the complexities of these cases.
- Drunk Driver Accidents: Accidents involving drunk drivers are hazardous and legally complex. Missouri imposes harsh penalties on those convicted of driving under the influence, as outlined in Missouri Revised Statute §577.010. If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a drunk driver, our legal team can help you navigate the process and pursue the maximum compensation available under Missouri’s drunk driving laws.
- Uninsured Driver Accidents: Uninsured driver accidents pose unique challenges when recovering damages. In Missouri, the law requires all drivers to carry a minimum level of insurance, as specified under The Missouri Financial Responsibility Law. However, not all drivers comply with this requirement, which can complicate your ability to recover compensation.
- Lyft Accidents and Uber Accidents: Car accidents involving rideshare can be very complex. Whether you were a passenger in a Lyft or Uber, you were the rideshare driver, or you were in a crash involving a Lyft or Uber, our legal team can help.
Our law firm is dedicated to helping you through the legal process, no matter the type of car accident you’ve been involved in. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
What Are Some Types of Damages I Can Recover in a Car Accident Lawsuit in St. Louis, Missouri?
In a car accident lawsuit, you can seek compensation for various damages associated with the accident. These damages are generally categorized into two main groups: economic and non-economic.
Economic Damages:
These are quantifiable losses with clear financial records to support the claim. They include:
- Medical Expenses: Covers past, present, and future medical costs related to your injuries, such as hospital bills, doctor visits, medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensates for income lost due to your inability to work while recovering from your injuries. This may include lost wages, bonuses, and commissions.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries permanently impact your ability to work and earn a living, you may be entitled to compensation for future lost wages.
- Property Damage: It covers repairing or replacing your vehicle or other damaged personal belongings.
Non-Economic Damages:
These are subjective losses that can be more challenging to quantify. They include:
- Pain and Suffering: This encompasses the physical and emotional pain you’ve endured as a result of the accident.
- Mental Anguish: Covers emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and other psychological effects of the accident.
- Loss of Consortium: This refers to the loss of companionship, love, and intimacy due to your injuries.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Compensation for emotional and psychological distress caused by visible scars or permanent physical deformities.
The specific damages you can claim and the value of your case will depend on the unique circumstances of your accident. To learn more speak with a skilled St. Louis personal injury lawyer from our firm today.
Should I Hire an Attorney or Can I Handle My Own Car Crash Claim in St. Louis, Missouri?
Insurance companies are profit-driven businesses whose primary goal is to minimize payouts. Handling a car accident claim alone can be overwhelming, and you may not know all the compensation you deserve.
An experienced legal representative can negotiate with insurance companies, ensuring you receive a fair settlement covering your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Hiring an attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s why:
Local Expertise:
Unlike some firms that market their services in St. Louis from other parts of Missouri, Beck & Beck is physically located in St. Louis. Our intimate knowledge of the local legal landscape gives us an edge in handling your case effectively.
Direct Communication:
At Beck & Beck, you will communicate directly with attorneys John and Paul Beck, not a junior legal assistant. This ensures you receive personalized attention and expert legal advice throughout your case.
Protection of Rights:
An attorney will protect your rights and interests, preventing insurance companies from taking advantage of you.
Specialization in Motor Vehicle Accidents:
Our firm specializes in motor vehicle accidents, including car crashes, truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents. We have the expertise to handle even the most complex cases.
In St. Louis, car accidents can impact your life in various ways. You might suffer from physical injuries, emotional trauma, loss of income, and more. At Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers, our knowledgeable legal team understands these challenges and are committed to helping you through this difficult time.
What Type of Settlement Can I Expect For My St. Louis Auto Accident Claim?
Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Every car accident case is unique, with various factors influencing its potential value. Here are some key considerations:
Severity of Injuries: The extent and seriousness of your injuries significantly impact the value of your claim. More severe and long-lasting injuries typically result in higher compensation.
Current and Future Medical Costs: Current and anticipated future medical costs associated with your injuries play a significant role.
Income Lost Because You Were Unable to Work: The amount of income lost due to your inability to work is a factor in determining the value of your claim.
The Impact The Injuries Have on Your Daily Life: If your injuries limit your daily activities, ability to work, or overall quality of life, it strengthens your case.
The At-Fault Party’s Insurance Coverage: The at-fault party’s insurance policy limits can influence the final settlement amount.
Important Evidence and Proving Liability: Establishing a clear case for the other driver’s negligence strengthens your claim.
Whether Or Not You Share Fault For the Accident: Missouri’s comparative negligence law can affect the value of your case if you share some fault for the accident.
To learn more about the value of your car crash claim, reach out to our skilled and experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys. We can assess the specifics of your case and provide a more personalized estimate of your potential compensation.
Am I Required By Law to Report a Car Accident to the Police in St. Louis, Missouri?
In Missouri, you are legally required to report a car accident to the police under specific circumstances. You must report the accident if someone is injured or killed, the property damage exceeds $500, or if your insurance company mandates it.
Additionally, if you hit a parked vehicle and can’t find the owner, you must contact the police. Failing to report an accident that meets these criteria can lead to fines, a suspended license, or a misdemeanor charge.
Reporting the accident is crucial for documenting the incident and establishing fault, which is essential for claiming compensation. Even in seemingly minor accidents, injuries or vehicle damage might be more severe than they first appear. For instance, a small bump on the head could later become severe, and minor vehicle damage could result in costly repairs.
St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis, Missouri, is undergoing several significant road projects to improve infrastructure and enhance transportation throughout the city. These projects include extensive roadwork in various areas essential for the city’s growth and development. The Missouri Department of Transportation also provided a comprehensive overview of these North St. Louis County projects.
While these projects are undoubtedly beneficial for St. Louis, they also increase traffic and congestion on the roadways. With more vehicles on the road and frequent changes in traffic patterns due to construction, the likelihood of car accidents rises significantly, that’s why drivers must remain vigilant and cautious to navigate the potential hazards effectively.
If you have been in a car wreck in St. Louis, Missouri, there are a number of helpful resources available in the community.
- Wicke Auto – Offering a wide range of auto repair services Wicke can help out if you need to get your car fixed.
- STL Auto Care – The technicians here can take care of any repair services you need. They are located at 8500 Gravois Rd, St. Louis, MO, 63123.
- Benchmark Auto Repair – The team here has experienced mechanics, competitive pricing and offers complete repair services. They are located at 2233 Mccausland Avenue.
- Master Auto Repair of Webster – This shop offers services such as brake repair, tire repair, oil changes, wheel alignments, and more. You can find them at 8216 Watson Road, St Louis, MO, 63119.
Experienced Auto Accident Attorneys in St. Louis, Missouri
When you’ve been hurt in an auto accident in St. Louis, Missouri, the last thing you should have to worry about is haggling with the insurance company. Let our accomplished legal team handle your financial recovery efforts, so you can focus on recovering physically. We’ll do everything from A to Z.
Don’t have health insurance and weren’t able to get the medical care you need for your car accident injuries? We can connect you with a doctor who can help. Not sure your case has the evidence it needs? We’ll gather supporting documentation to prove your injuries.
At Beck & Beck, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial hardships car accidents can cause. We are committed to providing compassionate and aggressive legal representation to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
We believe in holding negligent parties accountable and getting clients the necessary resources to move forward. Don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll answer your questions, review your case, and guide you through the legal process.
Locations in and around St. Louis which our skilled legal team serves includes Florissant, Brentwood, Clifton Heights, Cheltenham, Carr Square, Columbus Square, Fountain Park, and more.
St. Louis Crash Accident FAQs
What should I do after a car crash in St. Louis, Missouri?
Following a car accident, it’s crucial to:
- Seek medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor.
- Secure the scene by calling the police and exchanging information with the other driver(s) involved.
- Gather evidence, including photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage.
- Do not admit fault or discuss the accident details with anyone except the police and your attorney.
- Contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Why should I consider filing a lawsuit in Missouri?
Filing a lawsuit allows you to seek compensation for all accident-related damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and an attorney can ensure you receive a fair settlement.
Will I have to go to court if I file an auto accident claim in St. Louis, Missouri?
Most car accident cases in St. Louis, Missouri, are settled out of court through negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company. However, your attorney may recommend taking the case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in St. Louis, Missouri?
Missouri law provides a five-year statute of limitations for car crash cases. This means you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
However, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and protect your rights.
How can I tell who’s legally responsible for a car accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
Determining fault in a car accident can be complex, and evidence from the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and traffic laws will play a role. An experienced attorney can help you gather and analyze evidence to establish fault.
I may have been partly at-fault for the crash. Can I still file a claim?
Yes, Missouri is a comparative fault state, which means you can still recover damages even if you share some responsibility for the accident. However, the compensation you receive will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
The other driver’s insurance company offered me a settlement. Should I accept it so I can end this situation?
Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators whose primary goal is to minimize payouts. It’s essential to consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offer. They can assess the fairness of the offer and protect your rights.
What if the person who hit me didn’t have any insurance or if it was a hit-and-run accident?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may provide compensation. However, the amount of coverage may be limited. An attorney can help you explore all available options to recover damages. In hit-and-run accidents, identifying the at-fault driver can be challenging. Still, an attorney can assist in investigating the incident.
How much does hiring an attorney at Beck & Beck to file a Missouri auto accident claim cost?
At Beck & Beck, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you only pay attorney’s fees if we recover compensation for you. Our focus is on achieving a favorable outcome for your case, and our fees are contingent on our success.
