Car accidents can be sudden and unexpected, causing serious injuries and even death. St. Louis, Missouri, is no stranger to car accidents as well. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s 2020 car accident data, there were nearly 48,000 people injured in car accidents in Missouri alone. In St. Louis, there were 15,092 traffic accidents reported in 2021, highlighting the prevalence of car accidents in the city.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident in St. Louis, it’s crucial to understand the different types of car accidents that can occur and how a lawyer can help you in your case.
In this article, we will discuss common types of car accidents in St. Louis and how a lawyer can help.
Front Impact Collisions
In terms of car collisions, front-impact collisions are the most common, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Institute (NHTSA). In 2019 alone, there were 2.8 million front-impact collisions reported. Front-impact collisions occur when the front of one vehicle collides with the front of another vehicle. These types of collisions can be especially dangerous because they often involve high speeds and can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are the second most common accidents in the United States. Each year, a staggering 2.5 million of these accidents are reported, making up a staggering 28% of all crashes. It can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe.
The cause of most of these accidents is driver error, with many drivers either not paying enough attention, following too closely, or driving too fast. The result is often a sudden, unexpected impact, causing a jarring whiplash effect and potentially causing serious damage to the neck, back, or brain.
T-Bone Accidents
Side-impact collisions, also referred to as T-bone accidents, are among the most lethal types of car crashes in the US. During such collisions, the front of one car collides with the side of another, forming a “T” shape.
Shockingly, T-bone accidents cause a considerable number of fatalities annually. The National Transportation Highway Safety Administration reports that approximately 8,000 individuals lose their lives each year in side-impact collisions, accounting for more than half of all car accident deaths.
The risk of T-bone collisions is highest at intersections, where drivers may be distracted or not pay enough attention to their surroundings. These accidents can cause a range of injuries, from minor to severe, including broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries. And the tragic reality is that, in some cases, these injuries can be fatal.
Head-on Collisions
According to the Insurance Information Institute, head-on collisions made up approximately 10% of all fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2020, resulting in an estimated 3,631 deaths and numerous injuries.
These types of accidents occur when two vehicles collide with each other from the front end and often lead to serious injuries or fatalities, particularly when they happen at high speeds. Injuries arising from such accidents may include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and internal injuries.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Single-vehicle accidents happen when a driver collides with a fixed object like a building or a tree or loses control of their car and crashes. The reasons behind these accidents can vary, from driving while intoxicated distracted driving, or excessive speed. Depending on the situation, injuries resulting from single-vehicle accidents can be mild to severe.
How a Lawyer can Help
If you have been involved in a car accident in St. Louis, speaking with a car accident lawyer is crucial. A St. Louis car accident attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Some law firms, like TorHoerman Law, even offer a free initial consultation for car accident victims. This means that you can reach out to them without any financial risk or obligation.
During the consultation, the experienced legal team will take the time to review the details of your case, explain your legal rights and options, and determine the best course of action to protect you in court. And if they decide to take on your case, you can be sure that you won’t have to worry about any fees or costs until they secure financial compensation for your injuries.
Conclusion
In St. Louis, car accidents are a reality that can happen to anyone and can lead to severe injuries and damages. It’s crucial to be aware of the various types of accidents and how a lawyer can assist if you or someone you know has been in a car accident. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in St. Louis, don’t hesitate to seek legal aid.
