Located in Missouri, St. Louis is a vibrant city known for its historical significance, blues music, and the iconic Gateway Arch. However, the city’s congested streets and highways pose a risk for car accidents. In a single year, St. Louis City and County saw 14,000+ crashes, leading to 173 fatalities, per Trailnet’s report.
The true impact of a car accident, both financially and emotionally, may not be immediately apparent. Let’s understand the extent of the damages you can seek if you are in a car accident in St. Louis.
Understanding the Broader Impact of Traffic Incidents in St. Louis
Before discussing the personal impact and recoverable damages from car accidents, consider St. Louis’s broader traffic safety landscape. St. Louis streets see many car accidents, nearly 40% involving drivers who flee the scene. Local police data shows that since 2021, out of 42,810 reported crashes in the city, 16,740 involved a fleeing driver. This alarming trend underscores the city’s struggle with reckless driving and severe accidents.
The city has taken proactive steps in response to a roughly 55% increase in traffic fatalities and rising safety concerns. Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, along with the aldermen, approved a $40 million initiative in March to enhance road safety. This funding is aimed at constructing traffic-calming infrastructure such as medians, traffic circles, and bumped-out curbs across various city roads.
These statistics reveal that traffic incidents in St. Louis have substantial legal ramifications. For individuals involved in these accidents, consulting with a car accident lawyer in St. Louis about the potential compensation is paramount.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in St. Louis Car Accident Cases?
After a car accident in St. Louis, Missouri, you must pursue reimbursement for your losses. Under Missouri law, victims can claim reimbursement for both economic as well as non-economic damages caused by another driver’s negligence.
Here is a comprehensive list of the losses that St. Louis court settlements can recover:
Economic Damages
Car accidents often result in various financial burdens beyond the initial property damage. You can seek reimbursement for all medical costs, including medications, doctor visits, hospital stays, and therapy. Lost wages due to missed work, including salary, bonuses, and commissions, can also be compensated.
Loss of earning capacity compensation may be available if you cannot work full-time or perform tasks because of your injuries. Your claim can include vehicle repair or replacement costs plus reasonable expenses like towing fees and medical transport.
Non-Economic Damages
Under Missouri’s pure comparative negligence law, you can still receive damages even if partially at fault in the accident. Nevertheless, the ultimate settlement sum will be modified based on the percentage of fault attributed to every party. It is legal for you to pursue damages for the accident-related physical pain and suffering.
Any form of emotional duress, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are also considered compensable injuries. If your injuries affect your relationships, you might have the right to demand compensation for loss of consortium.
Loss of enjoyment in life, when injuries prevent you from engaging in beloved activities, can also be compensated. Permanent scarring or disfigurement, which has both emotional and social implications, can be financially addressed, as reported by TorHoerman Law.
- Missouri imposes no cap on non-economic damages, ensuring that you can receive full compensation for your troubles.
- Punitive damages, designed to punish inappropriate conduct, may be awarded in exceptional cases. However, a portion of these damages will be allocated to the state of Missouri.
Seeking Legal Guidance for Maximum Compensation
An experienced car accident attorney can offer specific advice based on your unique circumstances. They can:
- Probe into the incident: Collect relevant evidence to determine the cause of the accident and identify the responsible party.
- Calculate your damages: Consult with medical and financial professionals to determine the full scope of your economic and non-economic losses.
- Deal with insurance companies: Enter into negotiations for your deserved compensation, as insurance companies often attempt to minimize settlements.
- Represent you in court: If necessary, your lawyer will advocate for you in court to secure the compensation you are entitled to.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it advisable to speak with the insurance company after a car accident in St. Louis?
Speak with a lawyer first before contacting the insurance provider. Insurance adjusters might attempt to minimize the seriousness of your injuries or pose probing questions. A lawyer can guide you on how much to disclose while protecting your rights.
2. Should I consult a lawyer after a car accident in St. Louis?
Having legal representation is strongly advised. They can assist you in managing legal issues, getting the highest amount of reimbursement possible, and dealing with insurance providers.
3. How much settlement can be expected for my car accident case in St. Louis?
The value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries and the resulting economic and non-economic damages. A personal injury attorney can evaluate your specific situation and estimate your potential compensation.
4. What is the deadline in Missouri for filing a car accident lawsuit?
5 years. The Missouri Statute of Limitations allows half a decade for filing any personal injury case. However, consulting a lawyer quickly is necessary to meet all deadlines and boost your claim’s success chances.
Wrapping up, do not underestimate the unexpected expenses of a car accident. Serious and enduring effects can result from auto accidents as well. By understanding the associated costs and consulting with a lawyer in St. Louis, victims can ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. Remember, to recover from the immediate aftermath of the accident and also secure your long-term well-being.
