St. Louis Rear-End Collision Lawyers

Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents, often occurring in heavy traffic or at stoplights. But these seemingly minor accidents can have a significant impact on those involved, causing not only property damage but a range of injuries.

If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision in St. Louis, the experienced attorneys at Cofman Townsley are here to help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process. We’ll fight to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.

What Our Clients Say

“Cofman Townsley and their staff are like family. They met every need, answered every question, called us after hours, etc. They went above and beyond and made sure that we got our settlement to the fullest amount.” Jill C.

“Cofman Townsley was persistent, professional, and did an excellent job at keeping me informed all the time.”

Ashanti M.

“The Cofman Townsley team was awesome through the entire process.”

Darlana J.

“Cofman Townsley was great at helping me. They were always on time and answered any questions I had. They were very nice and patient with everything.”

ReJeane T.

“The attorneys were very responsive to my needs. Every time I called, someone got right back to me right away. I always knew what was going on because I was kept very informed about my case. I would recommend Cofman Townsley to anyone. I feel that Cofman Townsley did a wonderful job with my case. Everything was done in a professional manner. Everyone is really nice. ”

LaDawn H.

“Cofman Townsley are like family to me. They explain things thoroughly, make sure that I understand, and that I am taken care of. David Nissenholtz and Paula were super to me, and helped me through a long and difficult process where I had years of medical treatment and much stress. They care about people and take time to listen. I would refer my friends and family members to them because I trust they will take good care of them.”

William V.

“Cofman Townsley treats you like family and like you are the only client. They answered all of my questions and took time to make sure I understood. I wouldn’t change to another attorney. They have done a good job for me and I trust them, which is very important. The whole office of people is friendly. They make me feel like I am number one, and they will do the same for you.”

Darlene W.

“Cofman Townsley diligently represented me in my personal injury work comp claim and got me a fair settlement in a timely manner.”

Jeff R.

“It was a great experience. Cofman Townsley handled all the leg work for me. I appreciate all the help.”

Chris S.

“I was very pleased with the way in which my case was handled. I was treated with great respect and care. I have never had to have legal services in my life, so for a first time event this has been very easy. I would like to say that the work ethic and determination of this company was the greatest thing that I will be left with. I thank you all very much!”

Johnny M.

“David did an amazing job with my case and communicating with me. His professionalism and concern with my progress meant a lot to me. I really appreciate everything he and his staff did for me. Thank you all.”

Carey G.

“Cofman Townsley are a great team of lawyers who go out of their way to do the BEST for their clients. They stay on you and get you the largest settlement they can.”

Peggy T.

“I really appreciate what they have done for me. I was treated excellently and if something ever happens again, they would be the first people I would call.”

Amber A.

“They have great attention to detail and [provide] a wonderful level of comfort during tough times.”

Matt C.

“Thank you. You guys were very fast, considerate, and friendly. I really appreciate it.”

Michael S.

The Impact of Rear-End Collisions on Victims

Rear-end collisions can have a significant impact on victims, leading to many challenges that can disrupt their lives and well-being.

Common Injuries

The sudden force of a rear-end collision can jolt the body, causing a variety of injuries, including:

Whiplash and Neck Injuries: These soft tissue injuries can cause pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Back Pain: Damage to the spine can result in chronic back pain, limited mobility, and even paralysis in severe cases.
Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe TBIs, potentially leading to cognitive impairments, memory problems, and personality changes.
Broken Bones and Soft Tissue Injuries: Fractures and sprains can occur in various parts of the body, requiring casts, surgery, or physical therapy.

Long-Term Consequences

Even seemingly minor rear-end collisions can have long-term consequences for victims, including:

Chronic Pain and Mobility Issues: Some injuries may result in chronic pain, requiring ongoing medical treatment and potentially affecting the victim’s ability to work or perform daily activities.
Emotional Distress and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The trauma of the accident can lead to anxiety, depression, and PTSD, requiring psychological counseling and support.
Financial Burden: The financial impact of a rear-end collision can be significant, including medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and property damage.

Understanding the full impact of rear-end collisions highlights the importance of seeking legal representation to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation for all your losses.

Common Causes of Rear-End Collisions in St. Louis

Rear-end collisions can occur for various reasons, often involving a combination of driver negligence, hazardous road conditions, and other contributing factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for promoting safe driving practices and determining liability.

Driver Negligence and Reckless Behavior

Many rear-end collisions are the direct result of driver negligence, including:

Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities are less likely to notice stopped or slowed traffic ahead, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Tailgating and Following Too Closely: Drivers who follow too closely behind the vehicle in front of them don’t have enough time to react if the lead vehicle brakes suddenly, leading to rear-end collisions.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs: Impaired drivers have reduced reaction time and impaired judgment, making them more likely to cause rear-end collisions.
Speeding or Sudden Braking: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid a collision, while sudden braking can catch drivers behind them off guard.

Hazardous Road Conditions and Weather

Environmental factors can also contribute to rear-end collisions, including:

Rain, Ice, or Snow: Slippery road conditions reduce traction and increase braking distances, making it more difficult to avoid rear-end collisions.
Poorly Marked Construction Zones or Roadways: Inadequate signage or confusing road layouts in construction zones can lead to sudden slowdowns or unexpected stops, increasing the risk of rear-end accidents.

After an accident, an experienced St. Louis rear-end collision attorney can examine the evidence to determine the cause and who to hold liable.

Determining Liability in Rear-End Collision Cases

While it might seem obvious that the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is at fault, determining liability in rear-end collisions can be more complex than it first appears. Missouri law considers various factors, including negligence and evidence, to determine who is responsible for the accident and resulting damages.

Missouri’s Fault and Negligence Laws

Missouri follows a “pure comparative fault” rule, meaning that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation for your damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Generally, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is presumed to be at fault for following too closely and failing to maintain a safe distance, but there are situations where the lead driver may share some responsibility for the accident, such as:

Sudden or Reckless Braking: If the lead driver brakes suddenly or unnecessarily, they may be partially liable for the collision.
Malfunctioning Brake Lights or Signals: If the lead driver’s brake lights or turn signals are not functioning properly, they may be held partially responsible for failing to warn the following driver of their intentions.

Gathering Evidence to Prove Liability

To establish fault and prove liability, gather evidence such as:

Police Reports: The police report will document the details of the accident, including witness statements and any citations issued.
Eyewitness Statements: Statements from witnesses who observed the accident can provide valuable information about the drivers’ actions and the circumstances leading up to the collision.
Dashcam or Surveillance Footage: If either vehicle has a dashcam, or there are surveillance cameras near the site of the accident, the footage can provide crucial evidence of the accident.
Accident Reconstruction Analysis: In complex cases, accident reconstruction experts can analyze the evidence and provide insights into how the accident occurred and who was at fault.

Determining liability in a rear-end collision requires careful consideration of all contributing factors and a thorough investigation to gather evidence. An experienced St. Louis rear-end collision lawyer can help you navigate this process and protect your rights.

Steps to Take After a Rear-End Collision

Knowing what to do after a rear-end collision can protect your health and preserve your legal rights. Here are the essential steps to take:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. A prompt medical evaluation will not only ensure you receive the necessary care but also create a record of your injuries, which is essential for any potential legal claims.
Contact Law Enforcement: Call the police to report the accident, even if it seems minor. The police report will document the details of the accident, including witness statements, and serve as an official record of the incident.
Gather Evidence at the Scene: If you are able, gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the other driver’s vehicle, and the surrounding area. If there are any skid marks or other evidence related to the accident, be sure to photograph those as well. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information as well.
Contact a Rear-End Collision Lawyer in St. Louis: As soon as possible after the accident, contact an experienced rear-end collision lawyer. An attorney can advise you on your legal rights and options, help you navigate the claims process, and ensure your interests are protected.

Maximizing Compensation for Rear-End Collision Injuries

If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, you may be entitled to compensation to help you recover from your injuries and losses. Maximizing this compensation often involves understanding the types of damages available and navigating the complexities of insurance negotiations.

Types of Compensation

Compensation in rear-end collision cases can cover a wide range of damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Past and future medical bills, including hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, medication, and assistive devices
Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work for recovery or inability to return to your previous job
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident and injuries
Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle or other damaged property

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts to protect their profits. It’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side to:

Avoid Lowball Offers: We’ll evaluate your case thoroughly to determine the full extent of your damages and ensure you’re not pressured into accepting a settlement that doesn’t adequately cover your losses.
Prepare for Litigation: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to court. We’ll fight aggressively to protect your rights and secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

How Our St. Louis Rear-End Collision Lawyers Can Help You

After a rear-end collision, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At Cofman Townsley, our dedicated St. Louis rear-end collision lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the legal process.

We’ll conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and collaborate with expert witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf. We’ll negotiate with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement, and if necessary, we’ll aggressively advocate for your rights in court. Our goal is to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially from this difficult experience.

Contact Our St. Louis Rear-End Collision Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rear-end car crash in St. Louis, contact Cofman Townsley for a free consultation. Our dedicated team will be ready to listen to your story and fight for your rights.

chevronAuto Accidents