Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Recent Missouri Auto Accident Statistics

Missouri is a beautiful place to live or visit. This means that Missouri highways are highly trafficked.

Travelers passing through, tourists, commercial vehicles, visitors, and Missouri residents all share the roads. Unfortunately, heavy traffic means that the likelihood of an accident is increased. Drivers can practice safe driving habits and be very cautious but accidents still happen. In Missouri, Highway 44 is even more likely to be an accident site.

When an accident is caused because of someone else’s negligence, it is important that you contact a Missouri auto accident attorney who can help you to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions and obtain the compensation for any vehicle damage or injuries you sustain in the crash.

Consider some recent Missouri Car Accident Statistics:

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported the following statistics in regards to Missouri accidents last year:

There was a total of 142,966 car accidents
There were 786 fatalities that resulted from these accidents
This comes to a total of one car accident death every 11 hours
There were 51,060 individuals who suffered injuries in car accidents
This amounts to an injury from a car accident every 10 minutes
On average a motorcyclist is injured or killed on Missouri roads every 3.9 hours

Causes of Missouri Auto Accidents

The leading cause of auto accidents in Missouri is speeding. Speeding accounts for about 38.2 percent of fatal crashes and 17.3 percent of the total number of auto accidents.

Another major contributing cause of fatal auto accidents is drunk driving. Drinking and driving caused 26.8 percent of fatal crashes, according to the report. Drinking and driving contributed to the cause of 4.4 percent of total accidents in Missouri.

Motorcycles were involved in 1.8 percent of Missouri auto accidents. But because motorcycles offer less protection to riders, 80 percent of motorcycle accidents result in personal injury or fatality.

The same is true of car accidents involving pedestrians. These accidents are far less frequent, accounting for a very small percentage of total accidents. But these accidents are very likely to result in significant personal injury or wrongful death for pedestrians when they do occur. About 91.2 percent of these cases are fatal or result in injury.

Missouri Auto Accident Attorneys

If you have been involved in a car accident, you need an experienced Missouri car accident attorney to advocate for you and to look out for your best interests. Insurance companies will try their best to minimize your claim and take advantage of you if you are not represented by an attorney who understands the true value of your claim.

In order to receive the full compensation to which you are entitled from insurance companies or any negligent parties whose actions contributed to causing the accident, you should contact the Missouri car accident lawyers at The Hoffmann Law Firm as soon as possible after an auto accident.

At The Hoffmann Law Firm we will work to build a strong case right from the start so you can receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to. Call us today at (314) 361-4242 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.

photo credit: KristinNador

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Car Accidents Involving Uninsured Drivers

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.

It is complicated issues such as these that make seeking the advice of a Missouri car accident attorney of utmost importance as soon as you are involved in a collision.

It seems unfair. You insure your car with a reputable company and make sure to pay your premiums on time. You drive safely and have a clean driving record. Then one day,bang… you are hit from behind by an uninsured or under-insured motorist.

What are your options?

Car insurance is meant to help recover losses sustained in a car accident. In most instances the insurance company of the driver found to be at fault for the accident pays for all damages and medical expenses that result from the collision. So what happens when the at-fault driver does not have any or adequate coverage?

Figuring out what to do next can be confusing. A good Missouri car accident attorney can study your case in depth to determine the best course of action. If they see that the offending driver has assets and available funds they may advise you to file a personal injury claim against them in civil court. If they determine that this would not be beneficial, because there is no viable way for the defendant to pay, then you may have to file with your own insurance company. This is unfortunate as it may count against you and raise your premiums even though you did not choose to collide with someone irresponsible.

Filing a lawsuit against a company that in the past has served you is not an easy task. Sometimes it is first necessary to file a breach of contract suit. Missouri car accident lawyers know that in most instances the insurance company is going to fight hard against these claims. They are expecting solid proof not just of your injury and damage to your car, but also hard evidence that the other motorist was in fact lax in their own coverage.

The wording of your policy and whether or not there are any limits set will determine the amount that may be awarded to you. A Missouri car accident attorney who is familiar with and deals primarily with un-insured or under-insured car accident cases will know best how to read the language of your policy and fight for you to get you all of the compensation you deserve.

For example, one recent case involved a woman who suffered from a herniated disc after a collision with an under-insured motorist. After exhausting the drivers insurance and getting their client the maximum allowed by his policy, they then pursued a case against her own insurance company to help pay the difference. Her insurance claimed that the settlement was more than adequate but her attorney was able to prove that her injuries were a direct result of the accident and the insurance company decided to settle before going to trial.

Missouri Car Accident Lawyer

It is complicated issues such as these that make seeking the advice of a Missouri car accident attorney of utmost importance as soon as you are involved in a collision.

Each individual case is different.

At The Hoffmann Law Firm we give attention to detail in each individual case. We can evaluate your case for free and help you determine what the best course of action will be in your case.

Call us today at (314) 361-4242 or contact us online.

photo credit: State Farm

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

The Dangers of Aggressive Driving & The Car Accidents It Causes

The Dangers of Aggressive Driving

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.

Aggressive driving is the primary cause of many auto accidents.

Aggressive driving can be defined as operating a motor vehicle in a way that increases the risk of an accident. One who drives in such a way not only puts themselves in danger, but also risks the safety of other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

Driving aggressively is a very serious matter. It can lead to very serious criminal charges, including involuntary homicide by imprudence.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration includes the following actions in their list of aggressive driving behaviors and actions:

Speeding: exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for conditions
Changing lanes excessively without reasonable cause
Improper passing: failing to signal before passing, passing on the shoulder of the road, or cutting into another car’s path
Tailgating: driving too closely behind another vehicle

It is the responsibility of every licensed driver to avoid driving aggressively. Statistics show that driving in such a way significantly increases the chances of a car accident.

Missouri Car Accident Attorney

If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident due to someone driving aggressively it is important to contact a Missouri car accident lawyer. A lawyer can help you hold the negligent driver responsible for their actions and get you the full compensation you are entitled to.

The Hoffmann Law Firm is a trusted St. Louis Personal Injury law firm. Christopher S. Hoffmann has a long and successful track record of securing judgements for victims of car accidents in the St. Louis Metropolitan area.

Call (314) 361-4242 to schedule a free and private consultation.

Financial Responsibility in Auto Accidents - How Much Your State Requires for Car Accident Injuries!

Financial Responsibility in Auto Accidents

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.

While discussing an auto accident claim, it is important to consider the role of each driver in relation to the accident. This will help determine not only who was at fault, but who is financially responsible.

There are a few different methods used to calculate financial responsibility in auto accidents, depending on which state you live it. To read about these methods, consult the legal guide we have prepared below.

Financial Responsibility in Auto Accidents

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers

While it is important to be aware of the method used to calculate financial responsibility in an auto accident in your state, it is also important to contact an experienced car accident attorney soon after an auto accident. A car accident attorney will be familiar with state laws and can assist you in receiving the full amount of compensation you are entitled to.

The Hoffmann Law Firm has a proven track record of successfully representing and defending the rights of those injured in Missouri car accidents. If you have been injured in a Missouri auto accident contact The Hoffmann Law Firm. We will work to build a strong case for you and get you and your family the justice you deserve.

Call us today at (314) 361-4242

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Educating Teens on Safe Driving - Avoiding a Car Accident Injury Before it Happens

Educating Teens on Safe Driving

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.

A large number of car accidents occurring in Missouri and other parts of United States involve teenagers.

The same view is echoed by law enforcement officials and other safety groups. Teenage drivers are at a high risk of getting involved in road accidents. Some statistics revealed by Children’s hospital of Philadelphia show that car accidents are one of the biggest reasons behind fatalities in teenagers, and many of these accidents are caused because of some critical errors on part of the teenage drivers.

Driver Distraction & Impairment

The two most common causes of accidents involving teenagers are driver distractions, and driver impairment.

Driver impairment is often a result of drug abuse or alcohol consumption.
The most common cause of distraction is use of mobile phones while driving.

In one study it was shown that as many as 24% of the adolescent passengers claimed that they rode with a teenage driver who was under the influence of alcohol. In the same study, as many as a third of the teenage respondents admitted to using mobile phones for emailing and texting while driving.

Educating Teenage Drivers

With a view to educate the youth about safe driving habits, and discouraging them from driving under the influence of alcohol or using a mobile phone while driving, an event called “Life on track” is held each year. This year the event was organized at Track Family Fun parks from September 30th through October 2nd. It was the fourth consecutive year this annual event was held.

This year organizers used some innovative techniques such as driving under the influence simulation and driving through obstacles while texting. Around 400 junior high and high school students from Hollister, Branson, Forsyth, and surrounding areas participated in this event. To give them a lesson on the ill effects of DUI and distracted driving, the students were made to wear glasses that blurred their vision, and asked to drive go-karts. The event organizers also put up an obstacle course, and the students were asked to maneuver their way through the obstacles while texting.

Students were also shown some safety videos, and given presentations by safety experts on safe driving and risks associated with DUI and distracted driving. Many of the teenagers who participated in this event reported that the experience was an eye opener to these dangers.

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers

Impaired or distracted drivers pose a serious threat to the safety of all everyone on the roads and should be held responsible for any negligence that leads to the injury or death of another individual. Taking preventative measures by educating teenage drivers is vital to the safety of our roads.

If you have been involved in an accident due to another driver who was impaired or distracted while operating a motor vehicle, contact The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. to find out what your legal options are. When another driver causes you or a loved one harm due to their negligence, you deserve to receive justice.

Call (314) 361-4242 to schedule a free consultation today.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

Man Dies In Motorcycle Accident After Buying His First Motorcycle - Sucked Under Semi-Truck Trailer without Side Skirts

Man Dies In Motorcycle Accident After Buying His First Motorcycle

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.

Motorcyclists often suffer catastrophic injuries when they are involved in a collision with a car or truck.

Last month a man died in a motorcycle accident shortly after purchasing his first motorcycle. He had only driven three miles on his new bike when he got in an accident with a tractor trailer.

The 59-year-old man had just bought his motorcycle on June 27 and was riding on the highway when he veered slightly to the right and crashed into a tractor trailer. In the impact he was thrown from his bike and ended up sliding beneath another vehicle. He died at the scene.

Motorcycle accidents can be caused by any number of factors. Some of these can include other driver negligence, defective vehicle parts, motorcyclists who fail to follow the rules of the road, roadways that are not well maintained, etc. In many cases, other drivers are not aware enough of surroundings and may not even notice motorcycles or give them enough room.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Missouri, contact a Missouri motorcycle accident attorney. You may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, personal property damage, pain and suffering, lost wages, the cost of rehabilitation, and other damages. If a family member has died you may have the option of filing a wrongful death lawsuit.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t talk to the insurance adjuster until you have had a chance to discuss your accident with an experienced personal injury lawyer. Call The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at our 24 Hour Call Center - (314) 361-4242.

What To Do After a Missouri Hit-and-Run Accident - Uninsured Motorist Claims

What To Do After a Missouri Hit-and-Run Accident

What To Do After a Missouri Hit-and-Run Accident - Uninsured Motorist Claims

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.

The Hoffmann Law Firm specializes in personal injury law, including hit-and-run car accidents.

Being involved in any type of car accident is stressful. However, being involved in a hit-and-run car accident can be particularly stressful and give rise to many different emotions. The way you respond to a hit-and-run accident has the potential to make or break your case down the road. Therefore, it is important to remain calm and keep in a mind the following steps after a hit-and-run car accident.

Write Everything Down

Put everything you remember about the accident down in writing. It is helpful to be very specific about the date and time of the accident and, if possible, a description of the car and the person driving. In certain situations you may not be able to identify all of the specific details but try to remember as much as possible.

Look for Witnesses

If anyone was around at the time of the accident you should get their name and contact information. They may be used as a witness later on.

Do Not Chase the Driver

The first thing you may be tempted to do following a hit-and-run accident is to follow the driver. Consider why this would not be a good idea: First, you do not know the other driver’s state of mind and could put yourself and others at risk. Also, because you may be driving in an emotional, possibly even aggressive, state you could potentially cause another accident due to lack of judgement.

Call the Police

If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it is important to contact the police and file an accident report using the information that you have recorded. Filing a report is important even if you feel that you have very little information to provide law enforcement. This official document will give you something to rely upon later.

Contact a St. Louis Hit-and-Run Car Accident Lawyer

Hit-and-run accidents can be frustrating and complicated. In order to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you are entited to, you need a hit-and-run car accident attorney who will fight for you and allow you to focus on physical recovery.

Since it’s founding in 1998, The Hoffmann Law Firm has specialized in personal injury law, including hit-and-run car accidents, and has a successful track record of securing judgments for personal injury victims in Missouri and Illinois.

To speak with an attorney call (314) 361-4242 or fill out our online contact form.

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Texting and Driving Car Accidents - Top Cause of Injury In Saint Louis - Blog

Texting and Driving

Public Awareness of Texting and Driving - The Injuries and Fatalities Caused.

Common Reasons for Teen Car Accidents

The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.

Accidents involving teens are common not only in Missouri, but throughout the United States. Unfortunately, many car accidents occurring in Missouri have a teenage driver involved in them. Statistics suggest that, per mile driven, drivers ages 16 to … [Read more...]

Educating Teens on Safe Driving

A large number of car accidents occurring in Missouri and other parts of United States involve teenagers. The same view is echoed by law enforcement officials and other safety groups. Teenage drivers are at a high risk of getting involved in road … [Read more...]

Texting and Driving on Missouri Roadways

A collision can happen in a split second. The NTSB estimates that at any given moment almost 1 in every 100 motor vehicle drivers are texting, emailing, or surfing the web. Nearly 20% of all car accidents each year can be attributed to distracted … [Read more...]

Car Accidents Involving Distracted Pedestrians

Recent reports show pedestrian fatalities are on the rise. Often times, when we think about distractions in relation to car accidents, we think about drivers who may be talking or texting on their cell phone, adjusting the radio, or eating. These … [Read more...]

Pedestrian Accidents: What Should Know About Your Legal Rights

Accidents involving pedestrians are slightly less common than car accidents. Still, about 70,000 pedestrians are involved each year in serious accidents with vehicles. In some cases careless pedestrians may be at least partially responsible for … [Read more...]

Missouri Texing and Driving Laws

There is no question that texting while driving puts yourself and others at risk of a car accident. There is an abundance of information published about the risk of doing so. As a result, many states have taken action and banned texting while … [Read more...]

Finding a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer on Google - Blogs

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

What To Do If the Defense Appeals a Jury Verdict

Being injured by another driver's negligence is stressful enough. What happens then when the insurance carrier is reluctant to pay? The arduous task of filing a claim in order to help offset the medical costs begins. This can take months, … [Read more...]

How to Remain Safe on Missouri Highways during Winter Months

With another Missouri winter upon us, it is a good idea to keep these driver safety tips in mind. Winter is right around the corner, and with it Missourians can expect to see a spike in highway car crashes. Navigating a car during bad weather or on … [Read more...]

Road Rage: Who Is at Fault When it Ends in a Collision?

Road rage is a serious problem that can have very serious consequences. Twice this year in Missouri we have seen road rage taken to the extreme. An August incident ended with the offending driver taking his own life before being questioned by the … [Read more...]

Know Your Rights If You Are Injured by a Hit and Run Driver

Six million accidents. Two million injuries. Thirty three thousand will die. Each year on the United States roadways there are close to six million car accidents. Over two million people suffer injury from these accidents and thirty three th … [Read more...]

Car Accidents Involving Uninsured Drivers

It is complicated issues such as these that make seeking the advice of a Missouri car accident attorney of utmost importance as soon as you are involved in a collision. It seems unfair. You insure your car with a reputable company and make sure to … [Read more...]

Proceeding With a Car Accident Lawsuit

If you have been injured in a car accident and you wish to explore your legal options, contact an attorney to discuss your legal options and develop a plan of action. If you and your attorney decide that pursuing a lawsuit against negligent parties … [Read more...]

Driving Safely in Hazardous Conditions

Driving in hazardous conditions requires preparation and smart driving. At times, for one reason or another, we may have to drive in hazardous conditions. While you may immediately think about driving in a blizzard, even light precipitation mixed … [Read more...]

Rearview Video Systems Added to List of Recommended Safety Technologies

This addition was made to improve rear-view visibility and help prevent backover accidents. On Tuesday, September 24, 2013 it was announced that rearview video systems would be added to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's list of … [Read more...]

Understand Why Semi Truck Accidents Happen so You Can Avoid Them

As drivers we hope that we will never be involved in an accident. Yet many accidents occur and many drivers will at some point experience an accident themselves or will hear of a loved one or family member who has been in an accident. Pretty … [Read more...]

Wet Roads and the Potential for Serious Car Accidents

Seasonal weather calls for Missouri drivers to modify their driving to accommodate current road conditions. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has reported that a Perry teenager was injured in a single vehicle accident on Thursday, October 3, at 2:58 … [Read more...]