Rear-End Car Accident Attorney in St. Louis

cars collide on the road

Rear-end collisions in St. Louis often cause severe injuries that leave you out of work and struggling to pay massive medical expenses. The driver at fault for the crash and their insurance company should cover your losses, but insurers usually don’t do the right thing on their own.

Let the attorneys at Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC help you get through this challenging time. Our rear-end collision lawyers in St. Louis are here to protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you need for your recovery. We can handle every aspect of your claim, from filing paperwork to dealing with insurance adjusters, while you focus on healing.

Contact us now for a free initial consultation and start your journey to recovery with a team that cares.

Why You Need Our Lawyers After a Rear-Ender in St. Louis

If you have been injured in a rear-end collision in St. Louis, you need Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC to represent you and handle your injury claim. Our law firm has been helping local injury victims for over 30 years. That means our attorneys bring extensive experience and a deep understanding of car accident claims to your case. 

Our founding partners, David Craig, William J. Kelley, and Scott Faultless, take great pride in our firm’s achievements and are deeply committed to each client we represent. Our team’s legal skills and substantial resources mean we have what it takes to relentlessly pursue the total compensation you deserve.

 Peers and clients alike have recognized our firm for our unwavering dedication and outstanding results. Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC has earned numerous prestigious awards, including the Litigator Award, and ranks among the 10 Best Law Firms as listed by the American Institute of Legal Counsel.

Our rear-end crash lawyers in St. Louis know how to respond to the tactics insurance companies use to deny fault and avoid paying their fair share. We’re here to challenge those tactics and advocate fiercely for your best interests. Trust us to handle your rear-end accident case with the care and focus you deserve. You can call us anytime to get started. Our lines are open 24/7 for a free case evaluation. 

Why Are Rear-End Collisions Common?

Rear-end collisions are the most common types of car accidents in Missouri, with front-to-rear crashes representing more than 37 percent of all crashes statewide. These accidents often happen because drivers are not paying enough attention to the road. Many drivers get distracted by their phones, radios, or other things inside the car, significantly increasing crash risk. When drivers look away from the road, they might not notice that traffic has slowed or stopped and are more likely to rear-end others. 

Another common reason these accidents occur is due to tailgating or following too closely. When a driver does not leave enough space between their car and the one ahead of them, they might not have enough time to stop if the lead car brakes suddenly. That is especially true in bad weather when roads are slippery. 

Speeding also contributes to the frequency of rear-end collisions. Driving too fast makes it harder for drivers to stop quickly and safely. In cities like St. Louis, where traffic can suddenly back up due to congestion or construction, speeding makes it even more challenging to react in time to avoid accidents. 

Common Injuries Caused by Rear-End Collisions

The force of a rear-end impact, even at relatively low speeds, can cause significant harm to the body. Here is a list of common injuries that might occur in a rear-end crash:

  • Whiplash neck injuries
  • Concussions
  • Neck sprains
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Broken ribs
  • Joint injuries
  • Fractures
  • Ankle sprains
  • Shoulder dislocations
  • Facial lacerations
  • Jaw injuries
  • Skull fractures
  • Brain injuries
  • Bruising
  • Internal bleeding
  • Seat belt injuries
  • Chest injuries
  • Pelvic injuries
  • Abdominal injuries
  • Puncture wounds
  • Eye injuries
  • Limb injuries
  • Psychological trauma

Most Common Causes of Rear-End Car Accidents

Rear-end crashes can result from a variety of factors, including:

  • Distracted driving – Failing to watch the road even for a few seconds can lead to a rear-end collision if a car in front stops suddenly.
  • Speeding – Driving faster than the posted speed limits or too fast for conditions makes it harder to stop in time to prevent hitting a car in front.
  • Tailgating – Following too closely behind another vehicle doesn’t leave enough room to stop safely without hitting the car in front if it brakes suddenly.
  • Poor road conditions – Drivers who fail to adjust their speed and following distance in bad weather or poor road conditions are more likely to cause rear-end accidents.
  • Mechanical failures – Sometimes, accidents occur because of mechanical problems resulting from manufacturing defects or a lack of proper maintenance.

Is the Rear Driver Always at Fault for a Crash?

Many people think the driver of the rear vehicle is always at fault in a rear-end collision, but that is not necessarily the case under Missouri law. While it’s true that the rear driver often bears responsibility for not maintaining a safe following distance, there are exceptions. For instance, if the driver of the lead vehicle suddenly reverses or their brake lights are not working, they might share some blame. They could also be at fault if the driver of the front vehicle cuts off the rear driver and abruptly slows down – a practice known as brake checking. Additionally, if a third car pushes the rear car into the front car, the driver of the third car could be at fault.

Every accident has unique circumstances, so it’s necessary to examine all the details and evidence before determining who is responsible if you’ve been rear-ended. 

What Should I Expect from a Rear-End Car Crash Settlement? 

If you’re involved in a rear-end accident in St. Louis, you could be entitled to financial compensation for various losses. That might include rear-end collision compensation for:

  • Current medical bills
  • Future medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost quality of life
  • Loss of companionship

Speak to Our St. Louis Rear-End Car Accident Lawyers Today 

Are you dealing with the aftermath of a rear-end car accident in St. Louis? Contact the team at Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC today. Our rear-end collision injury lawyers are ready to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case with an experienced car accident attorney. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide the assistance you need.