Bharat SainiLast Updated on March 29, 2023 by Bharat Saini
St. Louis is no stranger to car accidents, and every year, hundreds of people are injured or killed in collisions on the city’s streets and highways.
According to data from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were over 989 fatalities in Missouri due to traffic trashes, with St. Louis County accounting for a significant portion of these incidents. This figure rose close to 1000 in 2021 and 1028 in 2022. These statistics indicate that car accidents are a severe problem in St. Louis and that more needs to be done to prevent them.
While there are many factors that can contribute to car accidents, including weather conditions and road design, it is often reckless or negligent driving that is at the root of these incidents.
This article will explore the prevalence of St. Louis car accidents, common causes, legal considerations, and strategies for promoting safer driving practices.
Common Causes of St. Louis Car Accidents
Here are some of the most common causes of St. Louis car accidents:
Distracted driving
Distracted driving claimed 3142 lives in the United States in 2020, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Additionally, data from the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety has shown that over 52% of the distracted driving fatalities in Missouri claimed the life of the other person. Between 2016 and 2020, the distracted driving crash rate in St. Louis alone was 18.6 per 1000 residents.
Speeding
Exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for road conditions can greatly increase the risk of a car accident. According to data from the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, Missouri saw 548 aggressive driving fatalities in 2021, making excessive speeding a contributing factor to over 40% of all fatal crashes.
Failure to yield
Failing to yield the right of way is a common cause of car accidents in St. Louis. Drivers who do not yield at stop signs, yield signs, or when turning left can cause serious accidents.
Poor Weather Conditions
Rain, ice, snow, and other weather conditions can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the risk of car accidents.
Driving under the Influence
One of the main factors in car accidents in St. Louis and across the country is driving while intoxicated. The Missouri State Highway Patrol Statistical Analysis Center estimates that alcohol usage causes over 10,000 accidents in Missouri each year.
Examining the Legal System: How St. Louis Car Accidents Lawsuits Work
If you have been involved in a car accident in St. Louis, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. In general, car accident lawsuits are filed against the at-fault driver, who may be held liable for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
To win a car accident lawsuit, you will need to prove that the other driver was negligent or reckless and that this caused your injuries or damages.
Navigating the legal system after a car accident can be overwhelming, but having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference. An experienced St. Louis car accident attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you recover damages for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
If you are seeking legal assistance for a car accident lawsuit in St. Louis, TorHoerman Law could help you in several ways. The law firm can offer you legal advice, conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Additionally, they have experienced trial attorneys who can represent you in court if necessary.
The firm takes a client-centered approach to its practice, prioritizing the client’s needs and goals throughout the legal process. Additionally, they offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and provide personalized attention and support every step of the way.
Safer Driving Practices to Prevent St. Louis Car Accidents
Preventing car accidents is ultimately the responsibility of every driver on the road. Some strategies for promoting safer driving practices in St. Louis include:
- Avoiding distractions: Put away your phone and other distractions while driving.
- Obeying traffic laws: Follow the speed limit, yield to pedestrians, and obey traffic signals.
- Staying alert: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Driving defensively means anticipating other drivers’ moves and being ready to respond to unforeseen circumstances.
- Avoid driving while intoxicated: Never operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Regular vehicle maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is in good working order, with properly inflated tires and functioning brakes and lights.
The Role of Law Enforcement and Public Policy in Promoting Safer Driving Practices
Law enforcement and public policy play a crucial role in promoting safer driving practices and reducing the number of car accidents in St. Louis. Here are some ways in which they can make a difference:
- Increasing enforcement of traffic laws: Law enforcement agencies can increase their presence on the roads and crack down on drivers who violate traffic laws, such as speeding, running red lights, and driving under the influence. This can help deter reckless driving behavior and encourage drivers to follow the rules of the road.
- Improving road design: Public policy can also play a role in promoting safer driving practices by improving road design. This can include adding more street lights, improving road markings, and implementing traffic calming measures to slow down drivers in high-risk areas.
- Increasing public education and awareness: Public education campaigns can help raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving, drunk driving, and other risky behaviors on the road. These campaigns can encourage drivers to make safer choices and take responsibility for their actions behind the wheel.
- Strengthening laws and regulations: Public policy can also play a role in promoting safer driving practices by strengthening laws and regulations related to driving. This can include implementing stricter penalties for traffic violations, regulating the use of mobile devices while driving, and requiring more frequent vehicle safety inspections.
Conclusion
This article serves as a call to action for all drivers to prioritize safety when behind the wheel. The goal is to raise awareness about the importance of safer driving practices and empower individuals to take action toward preventing car accidents. By working together, we can all make a difference in reducing the number of car accidents in St. Louis and creating safer roads for everyone.
