Car accidents happen in an instant, but the consequences can last a lifetime. If you’ve been injured in a collision, understanding the type of accident you were involved in can significantly impact your personal injury claim. Different accident types involve different factors when determining fault, assessing damages, and pursuing compensation.
Keep reading to learn about the most common types of car accidents in Missouri and how each may affect your ability to recover compensation for your injuries.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the most common accidents on Missouri roads. These occur when one vehicle strikes the back of another, often due to tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops. In most cases, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is considered at fault, as drivers are expected to maintain a safe following distance.
However, fault isn’t always straightforward. If the lead driver’s brake lights were malfunctioning or they reversed unexpectedly, liability may shift. Rear-end collisions frequently cause whiplash, back injuries, and head trauma, even at low speeds. These injuries may not appear immediately, making prompt medical attention essential. Learn more about rear-end accidents in Springfield, MO.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of car accidents, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. These accidents occur when the front ends of two vehicles strike each other, typically when a driver crosses the center line or travels the wrong way on a highway.
Common causes include distracted driving, impaired/drunk driving, fatigue, and poor road conditions. Due to the severity of these accidents, personal injury claims often involve substantial medical expenses, long-term rehabilitation, and significant pain and suffering damages.
T-Bone (Side-Impact) Accidents
T-bone accidents, also called side-impact or broadside collisions, occur when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another. These accidents commonly happen at intersections when a driver runs a red light or stop sign, or fails to yield the right of way.
The side of a vehicle offers less protection than the front or rear, making occupants particularly vulnerable to serious injuries. Broken bones, internal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries are common in T-bone accidents. Determining fault often requires careful analysis of traffic signals, witness testimony, and sometimes accident reconstruction experts.
Sideswipe Accidents
Sideswipe accidents occur when two vehicles traveling in the same or opposite directions make contact along their sides. These accidents frequently happen during lane changes when a driver fails to check their blind spot or misjudges the distance between vehicles.
While sideswipe accidents may seem minor, they can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, leading to more serious secondary collisions. Injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe harm if the vehicles subsequently collide with other objects or roll over.
Rollover Accidents
Rollover accidents occur when a vehicle flips onto its side or roof. These accidents are particularly common with SUVs, trucks, and other vehicles with a high center of gravity. Rollovers can be caused by sharp turns at high speeds, collisions with other vehicles, or tripping over obstacles like curbs or guardrails.
Rollover accidents often result in severe injuries, including spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and crush injuries. Multiple parties may share liability, including other drivers, vehicle manufacturers if a defect contributed to the rollover, or government entities responsible for road maintenance.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
Multi-vehicle pileups involve three or more vehicles and often occur on highways during adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic. These chain-reaction accidents can involve dozens of vehicles and result in multiple injuries and fatalities.
Determining fault in a multi-vehicle accident is complex, as multiple drivers may share responsibility. Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or render aid. These accidents present unique challenges for victims seeking compensation, as the at-fault driver may be difficult or impossible to identify.
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, your uninsured motorist coverage may provide compensation for your injuries. An experienced attorney can help you explore all available options and work with law enforcement to identify the responsible party.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Single-vehicle accidents involve only one car and may include running off the road, striking a fixed object, or rolling over. While the driver may assume they’re solely at fault, other parties could share liability.
Defective vehicle parts, poor road design, inadequate signage, or another driver’s reckless behavior that forced you off the road could all contribute to a single-vehicle accident. A thorough investigation is essential to identify all potentially liable parties. Learn more about reckless driving and car accidents.
Why the Type of Accident Matters for Your Claim
The type of accident you were involved in affects several aspects of your personal injury claim. Different accident types produce different injury patterns, require different evidence to prove fault, and may involve different liable parties. Understanding these nuances is critical for building a strong case.
Insurance companies often use the accident type to make assumptions about fault and the severity of injuries. Having an experienced attorney who understands these dynamics can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
The Importance of Consulting with a Lawyer After Any Accident
No matter what type of car accident you’ve been involved in, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is essential. Evidence can disappear quickly, witnesses’ memories fade, and insurance companies work fast to minimize their payouts. Learn more about why it’s important to call us when injured in a car accident.
Remember, Missouri’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is five years from the date of the accident. While this may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case takes time, and prompt action usually works in favor of the plaintiff.
Your injury took so much from you—don’t let it take anymore. Contact an attorney at Tolbert Beadle today to discuss your case. To learn more about personal injury and workers’ compensation, visit our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common type of car accident in Missouri?
Rear-end collisions are among the most common car accidents in Missouri. These typically occur due to tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops in traffic. In most rear-end accidents, the driver who strikes the vehicle in front is considered at fault.
Who is at fault in a T-bone accident in Missouri?
Fault in a T-bone accident depends on the circumstances. Typically, the driver who failed to yield the right of way, ran a red light, or violated a stop sign is at fault. However, both drivers may share some degree of fault under Missouri’s comparative negligence law, which allows you to recover damages even if you were partially responsible.
Can I sue if I was partially at fault for a car accident in Missouri?
Yes. Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system, meaning you can recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you could still recover $80,000.
What should I do after a hit-and-run accident in Missouri?
After a hit-and-run accident, call law enforcement immediately and seek medical attention. Document everything you can remember about the other vehicle and driver. Check for witnesses and nearby surveillance cameras. File a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage, and consult with a personal injury attorney who can help identify the at-fault driver and explore all options for compensation.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Missouri?
Missouri’s statute of limitations for car accident personal injury claims is five years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, you have three years. While five years may seem like ample time, evidence deteriorates and witnesses forget details, so taking prompt action is in your best interest.
What types of injuries are common in rollover accidents?
Rollover accidents often cause severe injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, crush injuries, and internal organ damage. These injuries frequently require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and may result in permanent disability.
Can I file a claim for a single-vehicle accident?
Yes, in many cases. While you may assume you’re solely at fault in a single-vehicle accident, other parties could be liable. Potential claims may exist against vehicle manufacturers for defective parts, government entities for poor road conditions or inadequate signage, or other drivers whose actions forced you off the road. An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate and identify all liable parties.