Missouri Personal Injury Lawyer Blog

Each year, the Missouri State Highway Patrol releases its annual report of Missouri auto accident statistics detailing the number and type of traffic accidents that occur on Missouri roads. The State Highway Patrol recently released its 2009 report. The report is intended to give Missouri motorists a clear picture of the risks present on Missouri highways and help motorists protect themselves when they drive.

• In 2008, traffic accidents in Missouri decreased by about 6.14 percent from the previous year. Thirty-two fewer people were killed in a 2008 traffic accident than in 2007.
• Over 40 percent of people who died in Missouri traffic crashes were between 16 and 35 years of age. Most of these wrongful death victims were between the ages of 16 and 20.
• One-third of all accidents resulting in death involved drinking and/or drug use. By contrast, only about one-eighth of accidents involved poor weather conditions such as rain, snow, ice, or fog. Nearly three-quarters of all traffic crashes occurred during daylight hours on dry pavement.
• Fifty-seven percent of the fatal crashes in 2008 involved only one car.
• Over 75 percent of all traffic accidents reported in Missouri in 2008 affected only property, not people.
• Jackson County, Missouri reported the most traffic-accident-related deaths in 2008, with 83 fatalities that year.

Motorists have a duty to keep their vehicles under control and avoid driving when it is unreasonably dangerous, such as when the driver has been drinking or is too fatigued to concentrate. If you or a loved one has been injured by a driver who failed to uphold this duty, you have certain legal rights. The experienced Missouri accident injury lawyers at Page Law can help you understand your rights and choose the best course of action for yourself and your loved ones. Call Page Law today at (314) 322.8515 for a free consultation about your Missouri car accident.