Reckless Driving Lawyer St. Louis

Aggressive driving accidents in St. Louis can be devastating. Our experienced lawyers are here to help you get the compensation you need.

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The legal definition of reckless driving is driving that involves multiple traffic violations that place other drivers at risk of a car accident. Being the victim of an aggressive driver can result in heavy damage to your vehicle and extensive personal injury. In these circumstances, hiring a St. Louis reckless driving lawyer gives you the best chance of receiving compensation for your damages.

An aggressive driver typically has no regard for the danger his or her actions put other drivers in. An aggressive driver will ignore traffic laws and the cars around them. Speeding, tailgating, sudden lane changing, and unexplained braking are all typical of an aggressive driver and can lead to a serious car accident.

Understanding Missouri’s Reckless Driving Laws

In Missouri, reckless driving is legally referred to as “careless and imprudent driving.” This offense is taken very seriously due to the significant risks it poses to public safety. Understanding the specific laws and penalties associated with reckless driving in Missouri can help victims and drivers alike recognize the severity of these actions.

Common Causes of Reckless Driving Accidents in St. Louis

• Speeding: Speeding does not necessarily mean driving above the posted limit. Traffic laws also require drivers to consider road and weather conditions while driving. For example, if an aggressive driver is trying to pass a line of traffic slowed for road work, he or she could be in violation of local speeding laws.
• Tailgating: There are standards that dictate how far one car should travel behind another. The basic rule of thumb is to give yourself enough time to come to a complete stop without colliding into the car in front of you. An aggressive driver who is tailgating is riding right at your bumper, not giving you any room to maneuver if you were to stop suddenly.
• Sudden Lane Changing: This could mean crossing over yellow lines to get in front of a line of traffic or rapidly switching lanes on a multi-lane highway. Not being able to anticipate where an aggressive driver will try to squeeze in next puts the cars around him or her at risk of a car accident.
• Unexplained Braking: This is often a tactic used to intimidate other drivers. Suddenly, braking for no reason can lead to a multi-vehicle car accident with many injuries. If you are driving and find yourself in close proximity to an aggressive driver, move as far away from the driver as possible. Their sudden maneuvering will put you at risk of injury if you do not take steps to avoid a collision. If necessary, pull over to the side of the road and call local authorities if you believe their driving is putting others in harm’s way.

Types of Accidents Caused by Reckless Driving

Reckless driving significantly increases the risk of various types of car accidents. These accidents can result in severe damage and injuries due to the aggressive and unpredictable behavior of the reckless driver. Common types of accidents caused by reckless driving include:

• Head-on Collisions: These occur when a reckless driver crosses the center line or drives the wrong way, resulting in a direct impact with an oncoming vehicle. Head-on collisions often result in serious injuries or fatalities due to the high speeds involved.
• Rear-end Collisions: Tailgating and sudden braking can lead to rear-end collisions. These accidents happen when a driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, crashing into the vehicle in front.
• Sideswipes: Reckless drivers who weave in and out of traffic or change lanes without signaling can cause sideswipe accidents. These incidents occur when the side of one vehicle scrapes or hits the side of another, potentially leading to loss of control and further collisions.
• T-bone Accidents: Also known as side-impact collisions, T-bone accidents often happen when a reckless driver runs a red light or stop sign and crashes into the side of another vehicle at an intersection. These accidents are particularly dangerous for the occupants on the side of the impact.
• Multi-vehicle Collisions: Reckless driving can trigger chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles. These complex accidents often occur in heavy traffic conditions and can result in numerous injuries and extensive damage.
• Rollover Accidents: Excessive speeding, abrupt maneuvers, or loss of control can cause a vehicle to roll over. Rollovers are particularly hazardous, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities, especially if occupants are not wearing seatbelts.

Common Injuries from Reckless Driving Accidents

Reckless driving accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. The severity of injuries often depends on the speed and nature of the collision. Common injuries sustained in reckless driving accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These injuries occur when the head suffers a violent impact, potentially causing long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life and requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: The force of a car accident can easily fracture bones, necessitating surgeries, casts, and long recovery periods.
• Internal Injuries: These injuries, such as internal bleeding or organ damage, are not always immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
• Whiplash: A common injury in rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly jolted, causing soft tissue damage and chronic pain.

Pursuing Compensation for Your Injuries

If you’ve been injured in a reckless driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Our experienced lawyers will help you seek compensation for various damages, ensuring that you receive the support needed to recover and move forward. The types of compensation we pursue include:

• Medical Expenses: Covering costs for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment.
• Lost Wages: Compensating for income lost due to your inability to work during recovery, including potential future earnings if your ability to work is permanently affected.
• Pain and Suffering: Addressing the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath.
• Property Damage: Reimbursing you for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.
• Long-term Disability Costs: Including expenses for long-term care, home modifications, and assistive devices if the accident results in permanent disabilities.

Our dedicated team will thoroughly investigate your case, gather necessary evidence, and advocate aggressively on your behalf to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Finding a Reckless Driving Lawyer in St. Louis

If you’ve been the victim of a reckless driver in St. Louis, finding a lawyer with experience handling these types of cases is recommended. Here are a few things to look for when choosing a lawyer:

• Experience: Look for a lawyer who has experience handling reckless driving cases in St. Louis. They should be familiar with local laws and regulations and have a track record of success in similar cases. Reckless driving cases can be complex, so it’s important to find a lawyer specializing in this area of law. The lawyer should have a deep understanding of the legal issues involved and be able to provide guidance throughout the legal process.
• Reputation: Look for a lawyer with a good reputation in the St. Louis legal community. Check online reviews and ratings, and ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had similar experiences.
• Communication: It’s important to find a responsive and communicative lawyer. They should be willing to answer your questions and keep you updated on the progress of your case.
• Fees: Finally, consider the lawyer’s fees and payment structure. Some lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. Others charge hourly fees or flat rates. Make sure you understand the fee structure and any additional costs before hiring a lawyer.

Finding the right reckless driving lawyer in St. Louis can increase your chances of receiving compensation for your damages and holding the reckless driver accountable for their actions.

Why Choose The Hoffmann Law Firm

Choosing the right legal representation is crucial when dealing with the aftermath of a reckless driving accident in St. Louis. At The Hoffmann Law Firm, we are committed to providing top-tier legal services to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Thorough Investigation: Our team conducts a meticulous investigation of your accident, gathering all necessary evidence. We leave no stone unturned to build a compelling case on your behalf.
• Tailored Legal Strategy: With extensive experience handling reckless driving cases, we develop a personalized legal strategy tailored to your situation. Our goal is to address your unique needs and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
• Comprehensive Documentation: We meticulously document all aspects of your injuries and losses, ensuring that every medical bill, lost wage, and pain and suffering is accounted for. This comprehensive approach helps us accurately value your claim and seek the full compensation you are entitled to.
• Aggressive Representation: Whether negotiating a settlement or taking your case to trial, we are dedicated to aggressively representing your interests. We fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your damages, holding the reckless driver accountable for their actions.

At The Hoffmann Law Firm, our commitment to excellence and client-focused approach sets us apart. We understand the challenges you face after a reckless driving accident and are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the legal process with confidence.

Talk to a Lawyer for Free 24/7 at (314) 361-4242!

In the event that an aggressive driver causes you to collide with them, another car, or even a fixed object on the side of the road, seek the advice of a St. Louis car accident attorney. Even if they drove off, your uninsured motorist coverage can be used to pay for your expenses from a car accident. Call The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at (314) 361-4242 for a free consultation.