Chicago
Case Types We Handle
Personal Injuries
Car Accidents
Truck Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Bicycle Accidents
Construction Accidents
Nursing Home Abuse
Wrongful Death
Slip and Fall Accidents
Daycare Injury & Abuse
Edwardsville
Case Types We Handle
Personal Injuries
Car Accidents
Truck Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Bicycle Accidents
Nursing Home Abuse
Wrongful Death
Slip and Fall Accidents
Daycare Injury & Abuse
Premises Liability
St. Louis
Case Types We Handle
Personal Injuries
Car Accidents
Truck Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Bicycle Accidents
Construction Accidents
Nursing Home Abuse
Wrongful Death
Slip and Fall Accidents
Daycare Injury & Abuse
Dangerous Drugs
Defective Products
Chemical Exposure

Types of Car Accidents in St. Louis [2024 Guide]

Use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for a St. Louis Car Accident Lawsuit Claim.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

Published By:
Tor Hoerman
Tor Hoerman

Attorney Tor Hoerman, admitted to the Illinois State Bar Association since 1995 and The Missouri Bar since 2009, specializes nationally in mass tort litigations. Locally, Tor specializes in auto accidents and a wide variety of personal injury incidents occuring in Illinois and Missouri.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and attorneys at TorHoerman Law and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced injury lawyer, Tor Hoerman, you can do so here.

TorHoerman Law does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

Common Types of Car Accidents in St. Louis

On this page, we’ll discuss common types of car accidents in St. Louis, how these types of car accidents occur, how St. Louis car accident victims can seek justice, and much more.

What Are the Different Types of Car Accidents?

Car accidents occur regularly in St. Louis.

According to data from the Missouri Department of Transportation, hundreds of incidents take place yearly, with mortalities from these cases increasing at a gradual pace since 2019.

Car accidents come in various types, and the different auto accidents recorded include head-on collisions, sideswipe accidents, and rear-end accidents to name a few.

As a driver in St. Louis, it’s crucial to understand the common types of car accidents prevalent in our area.

This knowledge not only helps you navigate the roads more safely but can also be pivotal if you find yourself in a legal situation following an accident.

Types of Car Accidents in St. Louis; types of car accidents; types of car crashes; car accidents in st louis; The Legal Implications Of Car Accidents In St. Louis; The Legal Implications Of Car Accidents In St. Louis

Avoiding accidents involving motor vehicles takes more than driving safely, it also involves observing traffic laws.

By staying on the right side of the law, you’ll not only keep you and your family out of harm’s way but you’ll also be in a more advantageous position when the time comes for lawyers to determine liability.

At TorHoerman Law, we understand the importance of road safety and the legal complexities that follow car accidents, which is why we’re here to provide you with valuable insights into the types of accidents that commonly occur in St. Louis.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident at no fault of your own, contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for a car accident claim instantly.

Table of Contents

Car Accidents: Common Types in St. Louis

In St. Louis, various types of car accidents pose risks to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.

Understanding how these accidents occur and their potential consequences is essential for promoting road safety and minimizing the likelihood of collisions.

Car Accidents: Common Types In St. Louis

Here are some of the most common types of car accidents that happen in St. Louis:

  • Rear-end collisions
  • Side-impact crashes (or T-bone accidents)
  • Head-on collisions
  • Failure-to-yield accidents
  • Sideswipe accidents
  • Pile-ups of multiple vehicles
  • Rollover accidents
  • Single-vehicle accidents
  • Parking lot accidents
  • Vehicle-pedestrian accidents

Rear-end accidents

Rear-end collisions are among the most frequent types of car wrecks in St. Louis.

A rear-end collision typically occurs when a rear driver loses control of a vehicle, causing the driver to drive into the rear of another vehicle.

Some common causes of rear-end collisions can include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Tailgating
  • Sudden stops
  • Adverse weather conditions
  • Speeding
  • Traffic congestion
  • Mechanical failures
  • Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs
  • Poor road conditions

When a motor vehicle crashes into the rear of another vehicle, the consequences can range from minor property damage to severe injuries, especially for occupants in the vehicle that was struck.

Whiplash, back injuries, and head trauma are common injuries associated with rear-end collisions.

To prevent rear-end collisions, maintaining a safe following distance, staying attentive to the road, and avoiding distractions while driving are crucial.

It also helps to be at least a car away from a rear driver.

In the United States, rear-end accidents are among the most common types of car accidents, accounting for thousands of incidents.

Side-Impact Accidents

Otherwise known as T-bone accidents, side-impact crashes occur when the front of one vehicle collides with the side of another vehicle, forming a “T” shape.

These accidents often happen at intersections when drivers fail to yield the right of way, run red lights, or disregard stop signs.

Side-impact crashes pose significant risks to vehicle occupants, especially those seated on the side of the impact.

Injuries can include:

  • Broken bones
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Internal organ damage
  • Lacerations and contusions
  • Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
  • Other minor injuries

Preventing side-impact crashes involves obeying traffic signals, yielding appropriately at intersections, and remaining vigilant for potential hazards.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the most severe and deadly types of car accidents in St. Louis.

These accidents occur when two vehicles collide front-to-front.

Because vehicles involved are often going toward oncoming traffic, they usually end up significantly damaged.

As for the driver and passengers, life-threatening injuries like traumatic brain injuries are expected.

Factors contributing to a head-on collision include wrong-way driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and driver fatigue.

The impact of head-on collisions can result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities for those involved.

Common injuries include internal organ damage, severe head trauma, and multiple fractures.

To reduce the risk of head-on collisions, drivers should adhere to posted speed limits, stay in the correct lane, and remain sober while operating a vehicle.

Failure-to-Yield Accidents

A failure-to-yield accident occurs when a driver fails to yield the right of way to another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist.

These accidents can happen at intersections, crosswalks, or when merging onto highways.

Failure-to-yield accidents can occur for a variety of reasons.

Besides reckless driving, other causes include driver distraction, aggressive driving behaviors, and misjudgment of traffic conditions.

Preventing failure-to-yield accidents involves understanding and obeying right-of-way rules, remaining attentive to road signs and signals, and exercising caution when approaching intersections.

Sideswipe Accidents

A sideswipe accident occurs when the sides of two parallel vehicles, traveling in the same direction, collide.

A side impact collision is often a result of one vehicle unintentionally drifting into another lane.

These collisions can happen on multi-lane roads, during attempts to merge onto highways, or when one vehicle tries to overtake another without sufficient clearance.

Sideswipe accidents can stem from various causes, including driver distraction, failing to check blind spots, misjudgment of distances, and loss of vehicle control.

In addition to causing significant vehicle damage, sideswipe accidents can lead to loss of vehicular control, potentially resulting in more severe secondary accidents.

To prevent sideswipe accidents, drivers should ensure to use turn signals, regularly check mirrors and blind spots, maintain lane discipline, and stay alert to the movements of surrounding vehicles.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents (Multi-Car Pile-Ups)

A multi-vehicle pile-up is a complex auto accident involving three or more vehicles.

This type of accident often occurs in high-traffic areas, such as highways and congested roadways, and is exacerbated by adverse weather conditions like fog, rain, or snow.

Multi-vehicle pile-ups present challenges for emergency responders and accident reconstruction teams due to the multiple points of impact and extensive property damage.

Reconstruction can take time.

These accidents are also among the most challenging types of car accidents for attorneys since determining fault isn’t always straightforward.

To mitigate the risk of multi-vehicle pile-ups, drivers should reduce speed in adverse weather conditions, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and exercise caution when visibility is limited.

Rollover Accidents

A rollover accident is when a vehicle rolls onto its side or roof during a collision or abrupt maneuver.

Rollover accidents can happen due to high-speed turns, vehicle instability, and road conditions.

These types of auto accidents can lead to serious injuries, such as head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and fractures.

While driving slowly is one of the best ways to prevent a rollover accident, you can also implement preventive measures like maintaining proper tire pressure and avoiding overloading vehicles.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Single-car accidents are auto accidents involving just one vehicle.

There are many possible reasons for why these accidents occur.

Some of the factors behind these accidents are driver error, mechanical failure, or hazardous road conditions.

These conditions can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles.

To prevent single-vehicle accidents, drivers should maintain focus while driving, avoid distractions like texting, and adhere to posted speed limits.

Regular vehicle maintenance, such as checking tire pressure and brakes, can help reduce the risk of mechanical failures.

Adjusting driving behavior to match road and weather conditions, such as reducing speed in inclement weather, can enhance safety and prevent accidents.

Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lot accidents are common in crowded areas and often involve low-speed collisions between vehicles or pedestrians.

These accidents typically happen when drivers are inattentive, fail to check blind spots, or misjudge distances.

To prevent parking lot accidents, drivers should proceed with caution, maintain a safe speed, and remain vigilant for pedestrians and other vehicles.

Utilizing rearview mirrors, checking blind spots, and signaling intentions can help prevent collisions when backing out of parking spaces.

Vehicle-Pedestrian Accidents

Vehicle-pedestrian accidents involve pedestrians being struck by vehicles.

Victims often sustain severe injuries or fatalities.

These accidents may occur due to drivers failing to yield to pedestrians, pedestrian inattention, or poor visibility.

To prevent vehicle-pedestrian accidents, drivers should always yield to pedestrians, especially at intersections and crosswalks.

The Legal Implications of Car Accidents in St. Louis

Following a car accident in St. Louis, understanding the potential legal implications of the crash is essential to protect your rights and pursue compensation for damages and injuries.

At TorHoerman Law, we’re committed to guiding you through the complexities of car accident cases and advocating for your best interests.

The Legal Implications Of Car Accidents In St. Louis

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in the St. Louis area at no fault of your own, you have legal rights.

Contact our law firm for a free consultation, or use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for a lawsuit instantly.

The Importance of Seeking Legal Advice Post-Accident

Seeking legal advice promptly after a car accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

The Legal Implications Of Car Accidents In St. Louis

Our experienced attorneys can provide valuable guidance on navigating the legal process, understanding your rights, and assessing the potential avenues for seeking compensation.

  1. Understanding Your Rights: It’s crucial to understand your legal rights after a car accident. Our attorneys can explain your rights regarding compensation, liability, and insurance coverage, empowering you to make informed decisions throughout the claims process.
  2. Preserving Evidence: Collecting and preserving evidence is vital for building a strong case. Our legal team can help gather relevant documentation, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to support your claim.
  3. Navigating Complex Legal Procedures: The legal process can be complex, especially for individuals unfamiliar with the law. Our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to navigate procedural requirements, deadlines, and court filings on your behalf.
  4. Filing Your Lawsuit Within the Statute of Limitations: Missouri has a statute of limitation of five years for car accident lawsuits. Your car accident lawyer can ensure that your case is filed within this period, ensuring that your case is resolved as soon as possible.

Dealing With Injuries

Car accidents often result in injuries ranging from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma and long-term disabilities.

It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately following an accident, not only for your health but also to document your injuries for insurance and legal purposes.

  1. Medical Treatment: Seeking prompt medical treatment is essential for diagnosing and treating injuries. Medical attention is also essential for you to secure documentation that can aid your car accident lawyer in developing your case.
  2. Documenting Injuries: Documenting your injuries is critical for establishing the extent of your damages. We can assist in obtaining medical records, diagnostic reports, and expert opinions to substantiate your claim for compensation.

Handling Insurance Claims

Navigating insurance claims can be challenging, especially when dealing with aggressive insurance companies seeking to minimize payouts.

Our legal team can help you negotiate with insurance adjusters and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

  1. Communicating With Insurers on Your Behalf: Our attorneys can handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf, protecting you from tactics designed to undermine your claim. We’ll advocate for your rights and negotiate for a fair settlement that reflects the true extent of your losses.
  2. Seeking Maximum Compensation: Insurance companies may offer lowball settlements that fail to cover your full damages. We’ll carefully evaluate your claim and fight for maximum compensation to address your medical bills, lost income, property damage, and other losses.

Potential Litigation

In cases where negotiations fail to yield a satisfactory outcome, litigation may be necessary to pursue full and fair compensation.

Our attorneys are prepared to advocate for you in court and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions.

  1. Preparing for Trial: Our legal team will thoroughly prepare your case for trial, conducting investigations, gathering evidence, and consulting with expert witnesses as needed. We’ll build a compelling argument to present before a judge and jury, seeking justice on your behalf.
  2. Advocating for Your Rights: Throughout the litigation process, we’ll fiercely advocate for your rights and interests, seeking the best possible outcome for your case. We’ll keep you informed at every stage, providing guidance and support as we pursue the compensation you deserve.

At TorHoerman Law, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that car accidents can take on individuals and families.

Our experienced attorneys are here to provide personalized legal representation and support every step of the way.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in St. Louis, contact us for a free consultation.

We’ll evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and work tirelessly to secure the justice you deserve.

TorHoerman Law: Fighting for Your Rights Throughout Your Car Accident Lawsuit

Regardless of the type of car accident you’ve been in, you’ll need an attorney who looks out for your rights and ensures that you receive the compensation you deserve.

At TorHoerman Law, we’ve represented many car accident victims, helping secure justice for many clients.

Our car accident attorneys are here to protect your rights, explain your options, and provide you with the guidance and representation that gets you the best possible outcome.

We’re here if you’ve been in a car accident through no fault of your own.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for a car accident lawsuit instantly. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the most common types of car accidents in St. Louis?

    In St. Louis, common car accidents include rear-end collisions, where a vehicle strikes the rear of another, often due to distracted driving or sudden braking.

    Side-impact, or T-bone accidents, typically occur at intersections, resulting from failure to yield or running red lights.

    Head-on collisions, though less common, are extremely dangerous, often resulting from one driver veering into oncoming traffic, possibly due to impairment or drowsy driving.

    Rollover accidents, involving a vehicle flipping over, can result from high-speed maneuvers or collisions with other vehicles or obstacles.

    Single-vehicle crashes, where a car hits a fixed object or rolls over, are often caused by driver error, such as distracted or reckless driving.

  • How do different types of car accidents occur in St. Louis?

    Rear-end accidents in St. Louis are typically due to one driver following too closely behind another, leading to a collision when the front driver stops suddenly.

    Side-impact collisions occur when one driver fails to observe right-of-way rules at intersections, crashing into the side of another vehicle.

    Head-on collisions result from one vehicle crossing into the lane of opposing traffic, often due to impairment or distraction.

    Rollover accidents can occur from excessive speed, sharp turns, or collisions that cause the vehicle to flip.

    Single-vehicle accidents are often due to losing control of the vehicle, leading to crashes with fixed objects like guardrails or trees.

  • What are the most serious injuries sustained from car accidents in St. Louis?

    Serious injuries from car accidents in St. Louis include traumatic brain injuries, often resulting from severe head impacts during collisions, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.

    Spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis or significant mobility issues, typically occurring in violent crashes like rollovers or head-on collisions.

    Broken bones are common in high-impact accidents, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

    Internal injuries, such as organ damage, can be life-threatening and result from forceful impacts or penetrating injuries in severe accidents.

  • How can victims of car accidents in St. Louis seek justice and compensation?

    Victims of car accidents in St. Louis should first ensure a thorough investigation of the accident, documenting the scene and gathering witness statements.

    Legal representation is crucial, as an attorney specializing in motor vehicle accidents can help navigate the complexities of insurance claims and litigation.

    The attorney will work to establish the other driver’s fault, negotiating with insurance companies to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

    In cases of disputed liability or inadequate settlement offers, the attorney may proceed to trial to seek fair compensation.

  • What legal steps should be taken following a car accident in St. Louis?

    After a car accident in St. Louis, important legal steps include reporting the accident to the police, documenting the scene with photos and notes, and collecting contact information from witnesses.

    Immediate medical evaluation is vital for documenting injuries related to the accident.

    Contacting a qualified car accident attorney early can help manage the legal process, from filing an insurance claim to pursuing litigation if necessary.

    The attorney will assist in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if needed, representing the victim in court to ensure they receive justice.

Written By:
Tor Hoerman

Tor Hoerman

Owner & Attorney - TorHoerman Law

Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at TorHoerman Law, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

Since 2009, we have successfully collected over $4 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.

Would you like our help?

About TorHoerman Law

At TorHoerman Law, we believe that if we continue to focus on the people that we represent, and continue to be true to the people that we are – justice will always be served.

Do you believe you’re entitled to compensation?

Use our Instant Case Evaluator to find out in as little as 60 seconds!

$495 Million
Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit

In this case, we obtained a verdict of $495 Million for our client’s child who was diagnosed with Necrotizing Enterocolitis after consuming baby formula manufactured by Abbott Laboratories.

$20 Million
Toxic Tort Injury

In this case, we were able to successfully recover $20 Million for our client after they suffered a Toxic Tort Injury due to chemical exposure.

$103.8 Million
COX-2 Inhibitors Injury

In this case, we were able to successfully recover $103.8 Million for our client after they suffered a COX-2 Inhibitors Injury.

$4 Million
Traumatic Brain Injury

In this case, we were able to successfully recover $4 Million for our client after they suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury while at daycare.

$2.8 Million
Defective Heart Device

In this case, we were able to successfully recover $2.8 Million for our client after they suffered an injury due to a Defective Heart Device.

Guides & Resources
Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at TorHoerman Law, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

Since 2009, we have successfully collected over $4 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.

Would you like our help?

Share

Related Locations

Local St. Louis Resources
Education
Emergency Services
Courthouses
Department of Motor Vehicles
Sights to See
Counties We Serve
Cities We Serve

What Our Clients Have To Say