Causes of Auto Accidents in Missouri
Accidents happen for many different reasons, but often are the fault of drivers who break safety rules or who fail to be reasonably safe and cautious behind the wheel. The 2011 Missouri Traffic Safety Compendium reveals that speeding was the cause of as many as 38.2 fatal crashes in the state in 2011, while other top causes of accidents include:
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Tailgating
- Aggressive driving
- Fatigued drivers
- Failure-to-yield
When a driver breaks the law, such as by driving drunk or violating the speed limit, that motorist becomes legally responsible for compensating accident victims if he causes a crash. Likewise, drivers who are negligent and fail to exercise reasonable caution while driving can also be sued for car accident losses.
Car Crash Injuries
Injuries from car accidents can often be fatal, as the body cannot withstand the force or impact of the collision. For those lucky enough to survive accidents, however, the consequences of the crash and resulting injuries can be life-changing. Many car crash victims experience permanent or painful injuries including:
- Broken bones
- Facial injuries from airbags
- Cuts and bruises
- Spinal cord injury
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
The medical bills for treating these and other injuries can be high, especially if you require lifelong care. Often, the injuries will also necessitate time off from work or may even make it impossible for you to continue to hold down a job.
The driver who caused the accident should be responsible for covering the cost of all of your losses, including those caused by the death of a loved one in a car accident.
Victims of car wrecks can make a personal injury claim to obtain compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress and other damage. Those who have lost loved ones can make a wrongful death claim to be compensated for lost financial support, funeral expenses, medical bills prior to death, and the loss of companionship caused by the untimely death.
While every case is different, car accident victims are often entitled to significant compensation for their losses. However, it is up to victims to pursue their claims and take action. The experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers at Carey, Danis & Lowe have helped many clients to get the money and justice they deserve. Learn more about how we can help you by calling (314) 725-7700 or filling out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
References:
https://www.aaafoundation.org/sites/default/files/2012TrafficSafetyCultureIndex.pdf
http://www.mshp.dps.mo.gov/MSHPWeb/SAC/pdf/missouri2011TrafficSafetyCompendium.pdf
