Rear-end collisions in St. Louis, Missouri, happen when the front of one vehicle strikes the back of another. They are one of the most common types of accidents on U.S. roads. In fact, according to the National Safety Council (NSC), rear-end collisions account for nearly 29% of all motor vehicle accidents, causing thousands of injuries and significant property damage.
If you’ve been involved in one of these accidents in Missouri, an experienced St. Louis rear-end accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
While rear-end crashes are often assumed to be the fault of the trailing driver, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, the driver in front may have contributed to the accident by making an unsafe stop or failing to use proper signals.
Understanding these nuances is crucial when determining liability. Tragically, rear-end collisions also make up about 17% of all fatal crashes, resulting in devastating consequences for families.
Common injuries from rear-end accidents include whiplash, neck injuries, and even paralysis in severe cases. The financial burden from medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost wages can be overwhelming.
Whether you’re facing serious injuries or dealing with the loss of a loved one, it’s essential to seek legal assistance to protect your rights.
Working with an experienced rear-end accident attorney in St. Louis, Missouri, ensures that you are fairly compensated for both economic and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, loss of quality of life, and disfigurement.
Why Are There So Many Rear-End Accidents in Missouri?
Rear-end accidents, while frequent on Missouri roads, are largely preventable. By understanding the common causes of these collisions and taking proactive measures, drivers can significantly reduce their occurrence and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
Distracted Driving
One of the leading causes of rear-end accidents is distracted driving. Texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the GPS takes drivers’ eyes off the road and delays their reaction time. Even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to a crash, especially in heavy traffic.
In today’s age of technology, drivers often engage in these distractions, significantly increasing the risk of an accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving contributes to a significant percentage of all crashes in the U.S.
Tailgating and Aggressive Driving
Following too closely or tailgating is another major contributor. Drivers who fail to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead increase the risk of rear-end collisions, as they don’t have enough time to stop if the vehicle in front suddenly slows down or stops.
However, aggressive driving, including speeding or frequent lane changes, also elevates the likelihood of crashes. In Missouri, aggressive driving behaviors are too common, especially during rush hour traffic, contributing to many preventable rear-end accidents.
Poor Weather Conditions
Rain, snow, and ice are common in Missouri, making roads slippery and reducing visibility. Drivers who don’t adjust their speed or keep a safe distance in bad weather are much more likely to be involved in a rear-end accident.
Slippery conditions reduce tire traction, which in turn lengthens stopping distances. Hydroplaning and other weather-related hazards can cause drivers to lose control, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Driver Fatigue and Impairment
Driving while tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol also impairs reaction times and judgment, leading to preventable rear-end accidents. Fatigued drivers may drift into other lanes or fail to notice slowing traffic in front of them, and impaired drivers have slower reflexes and poorer decision-making abilities. Both scenarios increase the risk of serious rear-end crashes.
By understanding and addressing these factors, drivers can help reduce the frequency of rear-end accidents and make Missouri roads safer for all motorists.
For immediate legal assistance from an experienced St. Louis rear-end accident lawyer, reach out to the legal team at Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers today. We offer free consultations.
What Are Some Injuries Associated With Rear-End Accidents in Missouri?
Rear-end accidents often lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor discomfort to life-altering conditions.
The sudden jolt of a rear-end collision can cause both physical and emotional trauma for victims, with long-term consequences. Common injuries from these accidents include:
- Whiplash: As the most frequent injury in rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the head and neck are violently jerked back and forth. This movement strains the muscles and ligaments in the neck, leading to pain, stiffness, and headaches. In more severe cases, victims may experience chronic pain or limited neck mobility, significantly impacting their quality of life.
- Back Injuries: The spine absorbs much of the force during a rear-end crash, resulting in injuries like herniated discs, fractures, or sprains. Back injuries can be debilitating, requiring months of physical therapy or even surgical intervention to heal properly.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Even without direct head contact, the violent force of a collision can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBI), such as concussions. TBIs can lead to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and persistent cognitive issues that may affect a person’s ability to work or perform daily tasks.
- Chest Injuries: The impact of a rear-end accident can push drivers and passengers against seatbelts or steering wheels, causing chest injuries. Bruised ribs, fractures, or even internal organ damage can occur, especially in high-speed collisions.
- Broken Bones: Limbs, including arms, wrists, and legs, are at risk in rear-end crashes. Victims often suffer broken bones from bracing against the dashboard or steering wheel during the collision.
Whiplash, in particular, is a severe injury that’s often underestimated. Research has shown that even low-speed collisions can cause significant neck damage. Symptoms may not appear immediately, usually developing hours or days later, which makes early medical attention crucial. Without prompt treatment, whiplash can lead to long-term discomfort and chronic pain, making proper diagnosis and care essential for recovery.
To learn more about the types of injuries associated with these accidents, consult with an experienced St. Louis rear-end accident attorney at our law firm today.
How is Liability Determined in a Rear-End Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
In most rear-end accidents, the driver who hits the vehicle in front is presumed to be at fault. Missouri law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance and remain attentive to traffic conditions.
If a driver fails to stop in time and collides with the car ahead, they are typically held responsible for the accident. However, determining liability isn’t always that straightforward.
There are exceptions where the front driver may be partially or fully at fault. For instance, if the driver in front suddenly stops without warning, has faulty brake lights, or makes an illegal maneuver, they may bear some liability for causing the collision. In these situations, Missouri follows a comparative fault rule, meaning each party’s level of responsibility is considered when awarding damages.
Sometimes, liability may be shared, and compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to each driver. For example, if the rear driver is found to be 80% at fault and the front driver is 20% at fault, the damages awarded will be reduced accordingly.
To ensure a fair liability assessment, you must work with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer who can gather evidence, reconstruct the accident, and advocate for your rights.
What is Missouri’s Rear-End Doctrine?
Missouri’s Rear-End Doctrine presumes that the driver who crashes into the back of another vehicle is at fault. This doctrine is based on the idea that the trailing driver must maintain a safe distance to avoid a collision.
If a driver fails to do so and causes an accident, they are typically held liable unless exceptional circumstances prove otherwise.
Missouri Laws Related to Rear-End Accidents
Following Too Closely
Missouri law clearly states that drivers must leave enough space between their vehicles and the one in front. According to RSMo Section 304.017, following too closely is illegal and considered negligence if a collision occurs. Drivers are expected to adhere to the “three-second rule,” which means leaving at least three seconds of space between them and the vehicle ahead to react in time.
“Slow Poke” Driving
Driving significantly below the speed limit, also known as “slow poke” driving, can increase the risk of getting rear-ended. If a driver travels too slowly without cause, they could contribute to an accident by creating a hazard for other drivers.
Missouri’s guidelines state that drivers must not travel so slowly as to impede the normal flow of traffic. Best practices to avoid rear-end accidents include maintaining proper speed and ensuring adequate space behind your vehicle to allow others to pass safely.
By following these laws and guidelines, drivers can reduce their risk of causing or being involved in a rear-end collision.
What Happens if Multi-Vehicles Were Involved in the Accident in Missouri?
Determining liability becomes more complex in a multi-vehicle rear-end accident. Chain reaction accidents, where several cars collide in a series, often occur on Missouri highways and in heavy traffic. The question of who is at fault can vary depending on the circumstances and requires a detailed investigation.
Typically, the driver at the back of the chain is presumed to be at fault for starting the collision. For example, if Driver A rear-ends Driver B, causing Driver B to hit Driver C, Driver A may be held responsible for the entire chain of events. However, if Driver B had followed too closely or failed to stop in time, they could share some of the blame for the damage to Driver C’s vehicle.
Missouri follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning fault can be divided among multiple drivers. Each driver involved in the accident can be assigned a percentage of the blame based on their actions leading up to the crash. For instance, if Driver A is found to be 70% at fault, and Driver B is 30% at fault, the percentage of their responsibility would reduce their compensation.
Working with a skilled and experienced rear-end accident lawyer in St. Louis, Missouri, is critical in such cases. They can help gather evidence like police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstructions to determine who is liable and ensure that fault is accurately assigned.
Is Brake-Checking Legal in Missouri?
Brake-checking, deliberately slamming on your brakes to force the driver behind you to slow down, is dangerous and illegal in Missouri. While Missouri law does not explicitly mention the term “brake-checking,” it falls under broader reckless driving laws.
According to RSMo Section 304.012, drivers must operate their vehicles ” carefully and prudently,” and any action that endangers others on the road can be considered a violation.
Brake-checking can easily lead to rear-end collisions and cause a chain reaction of accidents, especially on busy highways. It’s important to note that even if the following driver rear-ends the brake-checker, the person engaging in brake-checking may still be liable for initiating the dangerous situation.
Courts in Missouri consider brake-checking a form of aggressive driving, and those found guilty could face fines, lawsuits, and even criminal charges.
If you’re involved in an accident caused by brake-checking, it’s crucial to gather evidence, such as dashcam footage or witness statements, to prove reckless behavior.
How Do I Handle The Insurance Companies After a Rear-End Accident in Missouri?
After a rear-end accident in Missouri, dealing with insurance companies can be stressful and complicated. While you may expect a straightforward claims process, insurance adjusters often use tactics to minimize the amount they pay out. Knowing how to handle these situations is essential to protect your right to total compensation.
One common tactic is offering a quick settlement that may seem tempting but is usually far less than what your claim is worth. Insurance companies know that victims often face financial pressure after an accident and may accept low offers to cover immediate expenses.
Another method they use is downplaying your injuries or suggesting that they were pre-existing. They might also try to blame you partially, even if you were the rear-ended driver.
To handle these situations effectively, avoid giving recorded statements without consulting a lawyer, as they could be used against you later. Reviewing any settlement offers carefully is essential, as accepting one typically prevents you from seeking further compensation.
How Can An Attorney Help After a Rear-End Accident in St. Louis, Missouri?
After a rear-end accident in St. Louis, Missouri, partnering with an experienced attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. A skilled legal representative can manage the complexities of gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, determining liability, and ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
An attorney will thoroughly investigate the accident, collecting crucial evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports. This helps build a compelling case when a fault is disputed or multiple vehicles are involved.
Additionally, a skilled attorney knows how to deal with insurance companies that often attempt to minimize settlements or deny valid claims. Your attorney will advocate to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If your case proceeds to court, your lawyer will represent your best interests, presenting evidence and making a solid argument in your favor. Working with a knowledgeable legal representative in St. Louis, Missouri, ensures that all legal deadlines are met, and they’ll guide you through the entire legal process.
This protects your right to compensation and gives you the best chance at achieving a successful outcome, reducing the stress of handling the claim independently.
Experienced Car Accident Lawyers in St. Louis, Missouri
At Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping victims of rear-end accidents and other car crashes in St. Louis get the justice they deserve.
With a deep commitment to personalized service, we work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the compensation they need to recover and move forward.
Our skilled St. Louis rear-end accident attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges of being involved in an accident, and we provide compassionate, results-driven representation to ease your burden. Your recovery is our priority.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end collision, trust the experience and expertise of Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers to fight for your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the first step toward your recovery. We are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure you get the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
Locations in and around St. Louis which our legal team serves include Florissant, Wellston, University City, Maplewood, Clayton, Brentwood, Central West End, Richmond Heights, and more.
