Fatal Car Accidents in Missouri

This past spring, one driver’s failure to yield turned into tragedy in Missouri. A car ended up colliding with a semi-truck, causing the death of four people, including two children, ages 4 and 7. Sadly, this is only one example of fatal traffic crashes that happen regularly across our state, instantly ending lives and devastating surviving families.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a fatal car accident in Missouri, you should immediately seek the help of experienced attorneys who handle fatal crash cases. Contact Burger Law today to provide you with the compassionate and skilled legal representation you need during this difficult time.

Missouri Fatal Car Crash Statistics

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were over 870 fatal crashes statewide in 2020, resulting in the loss of more than 930 lives. These numbers highlight the severity of the problem and the need for effective legal representation for the victims’ families.

In terms of the leading factors contributing to fatal car accidents in Missouri, speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving are consistently among the top causes. These reckless behaviors not only put the lives of the drivers at risk but also endanger the lives of innocent people sharing the road. It is crucial for all drivers to prioritize safe driving practices to prevent unnecessary tragedies.

Common Causes of Fatal Accidents

Some of the common causes of fatal accidents in Missouri include:

• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for the current conditions can significantly increase the likelihood of a fatal accident.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it extremely dangerous and a leading cause of fatal accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities that divert attention, such as texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car technologies, can increase the risk of a fatal accident.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, excessive lane changing, or running red lights, can escalate to fatal accidents.
• Fatigue: Falling asleep at the wheel or driving while drowsy can impair judgment and reaction time, leading to fatal accidents.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or fog, can make driving more challenging and increase the risk of fatal accidents.

These causes are preventable, and drivers have a responsibility to prioritize safety on the road. When drivers are careless or reckless and cause a fatal crash, they should be liable for wrongful death. A St. Louis car accident attorney from Burger Law is ready to help.

Filing Wrongful Death Claims after Fatal Traffic Crashes

After a fatal car accident, the victims’ families may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death claims allow the surviving family members to seek justice and compensation for their loss. However, the legal process can be overwhelming, especially during such a difficult time.

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally three years from the date of death. Always consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to ensure that all necessary deadlines are met.

Contact Our St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers

At Burger Law, our St. Louis car accident lawyers have extensive experience in handling car accident cases throughout the St. Louis area. Contact us today at (314) 500-HURT to schedule a free consultation. Let us fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve after a car accident in St. Louis.

Gary Burger

Founder | Injury Attorney
Gary Burger has dedicated his career to standing up against bullies. The founder and principal attorney of Burger Law | St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer has helped hundreds of Missouri and Illinois individuals and families recover th …
Years of experience: 30 years
Location: St. Louis, MO

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