How Speeding Affects Liability in St. Louis Car Accidents

Missouri’s Comparative Fault System

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule, meaning that each party in an accident can be assigned a percentage of fault. Even if drivers were speeding, they may not be entirely responsible for the crash. However, proving that speeding played a major role in the accident can strengthen a victim’s claim for compensation.

For instance, if a speeding driver collides with another vehicle making an illegal left turn, both parties may share liability. The speeding driver might be found 60% at fault, while the turning driver holds 40% liability. In this case, the speeding driver’s compensation would be reduced by their percentage of fault.

How Speeding Affects Negligence Claims

To successfully prove a negligence claim against a speeding driver, the following elements must be established:

• Duty of Care – All drivers are legally obligated to follow traffic laws and operate their vehicles safely.
• Breach of Duty – Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions violates this duty.
• Causation – The victim must prove that the speeding directly contributed to the accident and their injuries.
• Damages – Medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses must be documented.

Evidence such as police reports, traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction analysis can help establish that speeding was a primary factor in the crash.

Speeding and Insurance Claims

Insurance companies will scrutinize every detail of an accident to determine liability. If the at-fault driver was cited for speeding, their insurance provider may have to cover damages. However, insurers often try to minimize payouts by arguing that the victim shared some fault or that their injuries are not as severe as claimed.

An experienced St. Louis car accident attorney can help counter these tactics and ensure that accident victims receive full and fair compensation.

Common Injuries in Speeding-Related Accidents

High-speed collisions often result in catastrophic injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries

These injuries can lead to long-term medical expenses and permanent disabilities, making it critical for victims to secure compensation that covers their full financial and emotional losses.

What to Do If A Speeding Driver injured you

If you or a loved one were involved in a St. Louis car accident caused by a speeding driver, follow these steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention – A medical evaluation is necessary even if injuries seem minor.
2. Call the Police – A police report documenting the accident and any citations issued is valuable evidence.
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
4. Obtain Witness Statements – If possible, collect contact information from witnesses.
5. Consult a Car Accident Lawyer – An attorney can protect your rights and negotiate with insurance companies.

Why Choose The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C.?

With over 25 years of experience, The Hoffmann Law Firm has helped thousands of St. Louis accident victims secure the compensation they deserve. Attorney Christopher Hoffmann understands Missouri’s liability laws and aggressively fights against insurance companies that try to undervalue claims.

If you were injured in a speeding-related accident, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

Speeding increases both the likelihood and severity of car accidents. Understanding how it affects liability can help victims navigate the legal process and obtain the compensation they need to recover. Contact a trusted St. Louis car accident attorney today to protect your rights. Call The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. 24/7 at (314) 361-4242.