While you can’t control what other drivers do, you can absolutely control how prepared you are. Being a safe, defensive driver is the best way to prevent a collision, and that starts with understanding the most common causes of traffic accidents in Missouri. From speeding to distracted driving, knowing the risks helps you anticipate and avoid dangerous situations. This article covers key prevention strategies to keep you safe on the road. It also provides a clear action plan for what to do if you are involved in a crash, ensuring you have the information you need to protect yourself and your claim.

Key Takeaways

Drive defensively by knowing the main risks: Speeding and distracted driving are the leading causes of serious collisions in Missouri. Staying alert, managing your speed, and putting your phone away are the most effective ways to protect yourself on the road.
Always create an official record of the accident: You are required to report any crash in Missouri involving injury or property damage over $500. A police report provides crucial, unbiased documentation that is essential for any insurance or legal claim.
Understand when to get professional legal advice: Missouri is an at-fault state with a five-year deadline for filing injury lawsuits. If you’ve been seriously hurt or are facing a dispute with an insurer, consulting an attorney early ensures your rights are protected and you meet all critical deadlines.

Missouri Traffic Accidents: A Look at the Numbers

Understanding the statistics behind traffic accidents in Missouri isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness. When you know the most common risks on our roads, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your family. The numbers paint a clear picture of where, when, and why collisions happen, giving every driver the knowledge needed to stay safer behind the wheel. If an accident does occur, knowing the landscape of Missouri traffic law is the first step toward recovery.

What are the statewide accident trends?

Across Missouri, a few key behaviors consistently lead to the most serious collisions. Speeding is the number one cause of fatal vehicle crashes in the state. In fact, of all the fatal accidents that happened last year, more than 34% involved a driver going too fast. Alongside speeding, distracted driving and driving under the influence are also leading causes of both general and fatal accidents. These aren’t just statistics; they represent preventable tragedies. When negligence like this leads to an accident, victims have legal rights. Understanding the different practice areas of personal injury law can help you know what steps to take next.

Where and when do most accidents happen?

While an accident can happen anywhere, certain situations increase the risk. Busy intersections, highway interchanges, and even familiar neighborhood streets can become dangerous when drivers aren’t paying attention. The most common causes of collisions in Missouri—distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, reckless driving, and improper lane changes—often occur during rush hour, late at night, or in poor weather conditions. It’s a reminder that vigilance is always necessary, no matter how routine the drive feels. If you find yourself involved in a collision, it’s important to know who you can contact for clear guidance and support during a stressful time.

How do rural and urban crashes differ?

In Southwest Missouri, we have a mix of city streets and rural highways, and the types of accidents often differ between them. Urban areas may see more fender-benders and accidents involving pedestrians due to higher traffic density. In contrast, rural crashes frequently occur at higher speeds on highways and two-lane roads, which can lead to more severe injuries. Drunk driving, for example, is a common cause of Missouri highway accidents because it impairs judgment and slows reaction times when they’re needed most. While there may be fewer crashes overall in rural areas, their severity is often greater.

What Causes Most Traffic Accidents in Missouri?

Understanding the common causes of traffic accidents can help you become a safer driver and recognize when another driver’s negligence might be at play. While every crash has unique circumstances, most collisions in Missouri stem from a handful of preventable behaviors. From driving too fast to looking at a phone, these actions put everyone on the road at risk. If you’ve been injured in an accident, knowing the cause is a critical first step in seeking the compensation you deserve for your personal injury claim.

Speeding: A primary cause of fatal crashes

It might not seem like a big deal to go a few miles over the limit, but speeding is a factor in a staggering number of serious accidents. It’s the leading cause of fatal collisions in our state, contributing to more than a third of all traffic fatalities in Missouri. Driving too fast for road conditions reduces your reaction time and increases stopping distance, making it harder to avoid a hazard. If a crash does occur, the impact is much more severe. Even a small increase in speed can be the difference between a close call and a life-altering injury.

The impact of distracted and impaired driving

A driver’s full attention should be on the road, but distractions like texting or adjusting the radio are a top cause of collisions. Similarly, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs severely impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time. An impaired driver is a danger to everyone on the road. If you suspect another driver’s inattention or impairment caused your accident, it’s important to document everything you can. This information is crucial if you need to file a claim for an automobile accident.

How reckless and drowsy driving contribute

Reckless driving includes dangerous behaviors like aggressive tailgating, weaving through traffic, and making improper lane changes. These actions show a disregard for others’ safety and often lead to preventable crashes. Another serious issue is drowsy driving. Getting behind the wheel when you’re exhausted can be just as dangerous as driving drunk, as it slows your reaction time and can cause you to fall asleep. Both are forms of negligence. If you’ve been hurt by someone driving this way, it’s wise to contact an attorney to understand your rights.

When Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in Missouri?

After a car accident, your mind is likely racing. Between checking for injuries and processing what just happened, legal obligations might be the last thing you’re thinking about. But in Missouri, there are specific rules about when you need to report a crash. Understanding these requirements is one of the first steps to protecting yourself, both legally and financially. It’s not just about following the law—it’s about creating an official record that can be essential for insurance claims and any potential legal action down the road.

Know the legal reporting requirements

In Missouri, you are legally required to report a car accident to the police if it results in an injury, a death, or property damage that appears to be more than $500. Given the high cost of car repairs, even a seemingly minor fender-bender can easily exceed that $500 threshold. When law enforcement responds to a crash that meets these criteria, they will complete a Missouri Uniform Traffic Crash Report, creating a formal record of the incident. Because it can be difficult to assess the full extent of damage or injuries at the scene, the safest course of action is always to call the police and file a report.

Understand the timeline for filing a report

While you should always call the police from the scene of a significant accident, Missouri law gives you up to 30 days to file a report in certain situations. This deadline typically applies to reports you might need to file directly with the Department of Revenue. However, waiting is rarely a good idea. Reporting an accident immediately ensures that details are fresh, evidence is preserved, and an official police report is generated. This report is a critical piece of documentation for your insurance company and is invaluable if you need to pursue a personal injury claim. Don’t delay—make the call right away.

What happens if you fail to report an accident?

Failing to report a required accident can lead to serious consequences. For instance, you must report any accident involving an uninsured driver to the Driver License Bureau. Not doing so could result in the suspension of your driver’s license. Beyond legal penalties, not having an official report can make it incredibly difficult to get fair compensation from an insurance company. Without a police report, the accident becomes a “he said, she said” situation, and the other driver could change their story. Filing a report is a crucial step in protecting your rights and ensuring you have the documentation needed to support your case.

How to Get a Missouri Traffic Accident Report

After a car accident, the official traffic report becomes a critical piece of your record. This document is essential for dealing with insurance companies and is a cornerstone of any personal injury claim you might file. It provides an objective, third-party account of the incident, including details about the drivers, vehicles, location, and any contributing factors noted by the responding officer. Getting a copy is a necessary step in protecting your rights and ensuring you have the documentation needed to support your case. The state of Missouri provides a few clear pathways to obtain this report, making the process manageable while you focus on your recovery. Whether you prefer to search online or make a formal request, you can access the information you need.

Use the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s online tool

The most direct way to find your accident report is by using the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s (MSHP) online portal. The MSHP maintains a database where you can search for traffic crash reports using details from the incident, such as the date, the county where it occurred, and the name of a person involved. This digital tool is designed for convenience, allowing you to locate and access your report from home without having to mail in a request or visit an office in person. It’s an efficient first step for anyone needing a copy for their records or to provide to their insurance adjuster or attorney.

Request a report from the Patrol Records Division

If you can’t find your report online or need additional documentation, you can make a request through the Patrol Records Division (PRD). This is the official department responsible for maintaining and distributing copies of reports and statistics from the MSHP. The PRD handles requests for a variety of documents, including traffic crash reports. While you can submit a request through other means, the division encourages people to use the Patrol’s online Public Records Center for the fastest service. This ensures your request is properly logged and processed by the correct department.

What information and fees are required?

First, it’s important to know that a report must be filed for any accident in Missouri resulting in injury, death, or property damage that appears to exceed $500. Once the officer files the report, it becomes available for request. To get a basic copy of a crash report investigated by the Highway Patrol, there is a standard fee of $6.00. If your case requires more detailed evidence, you can also request items like crash reconstruction reports, photographs, or certified copies of the report, but these will come with additional fees. Having key details ready, like the date of the accident and names of those involved, will make the process smoother.

What to Do Immediately After a Missouri Car Accident

A car accident can leave you feeling shaken and unsure of what to do next. In those first few moments, your priority is safety. Once the immediate danger has passed, gathering the right information is crucial for protecting yourself and handling any potential claims. Knowing the correct steps to take can make a significant difference in the outcome. Think of this as your checklist for the minutes and hours right after a crash.

Take these steps to stay safe at the scene

First, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If your car is drivable and it’s safe to do so, move it to the shoulder or a nearby safe location to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to make your vehicle more visible to other drivers.

In Missouri, you are legally required to report any accident to the police if it results in injury, death, or property damage that looks to be over $500. Calling the police creates an official report, which is an essential piece of documentation for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives and tells you it’s okay to leave.

Collect this critical information

While you wait for the police, exchange information with the other driver. You’ll need their full name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance company details. Be sure to also get the make, model, and license plate number of their vehicle. Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene from multiple angles, including the damage to all vehicles, skid marks, and any relevant road signs or traffic signals.

If there are any witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Their account could be very helpful later. When speaking with the other driver, stick to the facts of what happened. Avoid apologizing or admitting fault, as those statements can be used against you. This information is vital for any potential automobile accident claim you may need to file.

Make the necessary calls

After you’ve handled things at the scene, you have a few more calls to make. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as you can. They will open a claim and guide you on the next steps, like getting a damage estimate. It’s also important to know that in Missouri, you must report the accident to the Driver License Bureau if it involves an uninsured motorist.

This is also the right time to consider getting legal advice. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure you are treated fairly by the insurance companies. If you have questions about your accident or need help figuring out what to do next, don’t hesitate to contact our office for guidance.

Missouri’s Insurance and Legal Rules Explained

After a car accident, dealing with insurance companies and legal requirements can feel overwhelming. But understanding the basic rules is the first step toward protecting yourself and getting the compensation you deserve. Missouri has specific laws about minimum insurance coverage, determining fault, and the deadlines you need to meet to file a claim. Knowing these rules helps you make informed decisions during a stressful time and ensures you don’t miss a critical window for action. It’s all about knowing your rights and responsibilities on the road.

What is the minimum required insurance coverage?

In Missouri, every driver is legally required to carry liability insurance. Think of this as the baseline protection in case you cause an accident. The state mandates minimum coverage amounts: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. While this is the legal minimum, these amounts can be exhausted quickly in a serious crash. Medical bills and vehicle repair costs often exceed these limits, which is why many drivers opt for higher coverage. Having adequate insurance is a key part of responsible driving and is essential for handling the financial side of automobile accidents.

How do fault and filing deadlines affect your claim?

Missouri is an “at-fault” state, which means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for the damages. This is why filing a police report is so important—it creates an official record of the incident. You are required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $500. Beyond the initial report, there are strict legal deadlines for taking action. In Missouri, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to seek compensation entirely, so it’s crucial to understand your options early on.

How to Prevent Traffic Accidents in Missouri

While you can’t control the actions of every other driver, you can take powerful steps to protect yourself and your passengers. Prevention is always the best approach to staying safe on Missouri roads. By focusing on smart driving habits and keeping your vehicle in good shape, you can significantly lower your risk of being in a collision. It comes down to being prepared and paying attention. Here are the most effective ways to prevent an accident before it happens.

Adopt defensive driving habits

Defensive driving simply means anticipating dangerous situations and making safe choices to avoid them. It’s about staying alert and being aware of what’s happening around you. In Missouri, the leading causes of crashes are often preventable issues like distracted driving, speeding, and driving while impaired. In fact, speeding is the number one cause of fatal collisions in our state. To drive defensively, commit to putting your phone away, obeying the speed limit, and leaving plenty of room between your car and the one ahead. Never drive under the influence—it impairs judgment and slows reaction times, creating a dangerous situation for everyone. If you’ve been hurt in an automobile accident, knowing your legal options is a critical next step.

Maintain your vehicle and watch for road hazards

Your car’s condition plays a huge role in your safety. Regular maintenance isn’t just about performance; it’s a critical part of accident prevention. Make it a habit to check that your tires are properly inflated, your brakes are working well, and all your lights are functional. A sudden equipment failure, like a tire blowout or faulty brakes, can cause a devastating accident. Beyond your own vehicle, always be on the lookout for road hazards. Potholes, debris in the road, and unmarked construction zones can be just as dangerous as another car. Adjust your speed for weather conditions and stay vigilant for unexpected obstacles. If an accident does happen, it’s important to get the guidance you need, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

When Should You Call a Personal Injury Attorney?

Figuring out the next steps after a car accident can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and vehicle repairs. While a minor fender-bender might be resolved directly with insurance companies, many situations benefit from legal guidance. An experienced attorney can help you understand the full value of your claim and handle communications with insurers, giving you the space to focus on your recovery. They can also help you avoid common mistakes, like giving a recorded statement to the other party’s insurer that could be used against you later.

Knowing when to bring in a professional is key. If you’re facing serious injuries, mounting medical bills, or a dispute over who was at fault, it’s a good idea to seek legal advice. An attorney acts as your advocate, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the entire process. They work to level the playing field against large insurance companies that have teams of lawyers dedicated to minimizing payouts. Having someone in your corner who understands the law and the tactics insurers use can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. It’s not about being confrontational; it’s about ensuring you receive the fair compensation you need to move forward.

If your injury claim is complex or disputed

Not all accident claims are straightforward. If you’ve suffered significant injuries, if multiple parties are involved, or if the other driver’s insurance company is disputing fault, your claim is likely more complex than you can handle alone. In Missouri, you’re legally required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $500. This documentation is crucial, but it can also be the starting point for a dispute with an insurance adjuster whose goal is to pay out as little as possible.

An experienced personal injury attorney can manage these complexities for you. They will gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and build a strong case to prove liability and the full extent of your damages. This is especially important if you’re facing long-term medical care or lost wages.

To protect your rights and understand your options

The legal system has specific rules and deadlines that can be difficult to follow without a background in law. For instance, some Missouri car accidents must be reported within 30 days, and there are special procedures if the crash involves an uninsured motorist. Missing a deadline or filing incorrect paperwork can jeopardize your ability to receive fair compensation. An attorney ensures all legal requirements are met and that your rights are protected from the start.

A lawyer also helps you understand all your options. They can assess the true value of your claim, which may include compensation for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. By having a professional on your side, you can make informed decisions without the pressure of dealing with insurance companies directly. If you have questions about your accident, it’s always best to schedule a consultation to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need to call the police for a minor accident? Even if the damage seems minimal, calling the police is always the smartest move. It can be tough to accurately estimate repair costs at the scene, and what looks like a small dent can easily exceed the $500 reporting threshold in Missouri. More importantly, a police report creates an official, unbiased record of the incident. This document is incredibly valuable when dealing with insurance companies and prevents the other driver from changing their story about what happened later on.

What should I do if the other driver’s insurance adjuster calls me? It’s important to be cautious when speaking with the other party’s insurance adjuster. Their job is to protect their company’s interests, which often means minimizing the amount they have to pay. You can be polite, but you are not obligated to give a recorded statement or sign any documents right away. It’s best to stick to the basic facts of the accident and avoid discussing your injuries in detail. Before you agree to anything, it is always a good idea to seek legal advice to ensure your rights are protected.

I feel okay after the accident, so can I skip seeing a doctor? You should always get a medical evaluation after a car accident, even if you feel fine. The adrenaline from the crash can easily mask symptoms of injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal bruising that may not become apparent for hours or even days. Seeking prompt medical attention not only prioritizes your health but also creates a crucial medical record that officially links your injuries to the accident, which is essential if you need to file a claim.

How is fault determined in a Missouri car accident? Because Missouri is an “at-fault” state, determining who is legally responsible for the crash is based on evidence. The police report provides the officer’s initial assessment, but fault is ultimately established by looking at all the facts. This includes witness statements, photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage, traffic laws, and sometimes even expert analysis. It’s not always a case of one driver being 100% responsible; sometimes fault can be shared.

What if I can’t afford to hire an attorney for my accident? This is a very common concern, but most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront costs or hourly rates. Instead, the attorney’s fee is a percentage of the financial settlement or award they recover for you. If you don’t win your case, you don’t owe a fee for their time. This approach makes it possible for anyone to get experienced legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

Traffic Accidents in Missouri: A Step-by-Step Guide