The #1 St. Louis Failure-to-Yield Accidents Lawyer

Understanding Failure-to-Yield Accidents

Failure-to-yield accidents are some of the most common types of car accidents in the country.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), there were 4,239 cases of failure to yield right of way in 2021, accounting for 7% of all fatal crashes that year.

A failure-to-yield accident happens when a driver fails to yield or give the right of way to another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist that has the legal right to do so, such as when they have the green light.

This accident typically happens in the following situations:

• At crosswalks
• At stop signs
• At intersections
• At four-way stops
• At yield signs
• When making a left turn
• When making a U-turn
• When merging into oncoming traffic
• When merging onto a highway
• When entering a roundabout
• When making a right turn on a red light
• When passing a stopped school bus

Failure to yield can occur due to various reasons.

Causes of failure to yield accidents often include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or any other activity that takes your eyes and attention off the road can result in a failure-to-yield accident.
• Driving Under the Influence: Driving while intoxicated or impaired by drugs can slow reaction time and judgment, making it difficult to yield when needed.
• Aggressive or Reckless Driving: Speeding, honking, tailgating, flashing lights, and other aggressive driving behaviors can make it difficult for drivers to react in time to yield the right of way.
• Disobeying Traffic Signals and Signs: Ignoring stop signs, traffic lights, and other traffic signals can lead to severe accidents.
• Failing To Signal: Not using turn signals when turning or changing lanes can mislead other drivers and result in a failure-to-yield accident.
• Inexperienced Drivers: New drivers may not have the experience or knowledge of traffic laws to yield the right of way correctly in complex driving situations.
• Road Conditions: Poor road conditions, such as slippery or icy roads, can make it challenging for drivers to stop their vehicles and yield properly.

Regardless of the cause, these accidents can result in serious injuries and even death.

Missouri Failure-to-Yield Laws

In Missouri, as in most jurisdictions, there are specific legal requirements for yielding the right-of-way.

Statute 304.351 of the Missouri Revised Statutes outlines these requirements.

This statute dictates which driver, vehicle, or pedestrian has the right of way in various traffic situations, such as at a stop or yield sign, when entering an intersection, where there are oncoming vehicles coming from the opposite direction, and in other scenarios.

The failure to yield often involves violations of these laws.

A driver who fails to yield the right of way can be held liable for any resulting accidents and injuries under Missouri’s laws.

According to the statute, a driver who fails to yield the right of way is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor.

Penalties may include: 

• Physical Injury: If the driver causes bodily injury, they could pay a fine of up to $200, they may have their driver’s license suspended for up to 30 days, or both.
• Serious Physical Injury: If the driver causes serious physical injury, they could pay a fine of up to $500, face a driver’s license suspension for up to 90 days, or both.
• Death: If the failure-to-yield accident results in death, the at-fault driver could pay a fine of up to $1,000 and face a driver’s license suspension for up to six months.

Moreover, drivers who cause accidents due to failure to yield may also face civil liability for any injuries or damages caused.

Consequences of Failure-to-Yield Accidents

Failure-to-yield accidents can result in a range of injuries and damages.

Consequences include:

• Physical injuries
• Emotional and psychological trauma
• Fatalities
• Financial damages
• Property damage
• Legal ramifications

Physical Injuries

These accidents frequently cause injuries to occupants of vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Injuries can range from minor to severe, impacting victims physically, emotionally, and financially.

Common injuries may include:

• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
• Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
• Cuts, bruises, and lacerations
• Internal organ damage
• Amputations
• Partial or total paralysis

These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including hospital stays, surgeries, medication, therapy, and long-term care.

Victims may also experience lost wages due to their inability to work while recovering.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

In addition to physical injuries, failure-to-yield accidents can also cause significant emotional and psychological trauma.

Victims or their loved ones may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, fear of driving or crossing the street, and other forms of mental anguish following these traumatic events.

These emotional and psychological injuries can also require treatment, therapy, and medication.

Fatalities

Tragically, failure-to-yield accidents can lead to loss of life.

The force of the collision, particularly at high speeds, can be fatal for those involved.

Families and loved ones left behind endure immense emotional pain and potential financial hardship, compounded by the sudden and irreversible loss of a loved one.

Financial Damages

Failure-to-yield accidents can be costly for victims.

In addition to medical bills, victims may also face costs for property damage, lost wages, and other expenses.

These financial damages can add up quickly and place a significant burden on victims and their families.

Property Damage

Vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and other objects involved in the collision may suffer severe damage, necessitating costly repairs or replacement.

Nearby infrastructure, such as a traffic light, stop sign, fence, or telephone pole, may sustain damage, leading to further expenses for repairs and maintenance.

These damages can add up quickly and cause significant financial burden for all parties involved.

Legal Ramifications

Drivers found at fault in failure-to-yield accidents may face legal consequences.

Repercussions can include citations, fines, license suspension or revocation, and, in extreme cases, criminal charges such as vehicular manslaughter.

Legal consequences serve not only as punishment but also as a deterrent to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Challenges in Proving Fault

Determining and proving fault in failure-to-yield accidents can be challenging due to various factors.

In some cases, traffic signals may be unclear or malfunctioning, leading to confusion about who had the right of way.

Interpretations of right-of-way laws may differ between drivers and eyewitnesses, further complicating liability determination.

Certain situations may make it difficult for drivers to yield.

The driver failed to yield because another vehicle was speeding, making it impossible to stop in time.

Road conditions and other environmental factors can also play a role in failure-to-yield accidents.

The at-fault driver may deny liability or attempt to shift blame onto the victim or other parties involved.

Other drivers’ insurance companies may dispute claims and refuse to provide adequate compensation for victims’ injuries and damages.

It is crucial to have an experienced personal injury attorney who can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and navigate the legal system to ensure that victims recover compensation for their losses.

The Role of a Failure-to-Yield Car Accident Lawyer

In the aftermath of a failure-to-yield accident, seeking legal representation from an experienced St. Louis failure-to-yield car accident lawyer can make all the difference.

These attorneys specialize in handling such cases and understand the intricacies of traffic violations and Missouri’s traffic laws.

A failure-to-yield car accident lawyer helps victims receive fair financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

A few ways these attorneys can assist victims include:

• Conducting investigations and gathering evidence
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Advocating for client’s rights in court

Conducting Investigations and Gathering Evidence

To prove the other driver’s negligence and liability, a failure-to-yield car accident lawyer will conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances leading up to and during the accident.

This process may include reviewing police reports, analyzing traffic camera footage, gathering eyewitness statements, and collecting other evidence.

They can also reconstruct the accident scene to establish a clear timeline of events with the help of accident reconstruction experts.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

An experienced car accident lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their clients to ensure they receive fair compensation.

They can deal with the other driver, their insurance company, and other parties involved in the accident to pursue a satisfactory settlement.

They have experience dealing with insurance adjusters and will not be intimidated by their tactics, ensuring victims get the compensation they deserve.

Advocating for Clients’ Rights in Court

Should negotiations fail to reach a satisfactory outcome for their client, a failure-to-yield car accident lawyer can represent victims in court.

They will present evidence in court and build arguments to prove the other driver’s negligence and hold them accountable for their actions.

With their legal expertise and knowledge of case law and traffic regulations, these legal experts can effectively advocate for client’s rights in court.

Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer

By hiring a specialized attorney with experience in failure-to-yield accident cases, victims can benefit from their in-depth understanding of traffic laws and local regulations.

These attorneys have handled similar cases before and know how to navigate the nuances of St. Louis traffic legislation to build a strong case for their clients.

Key advantages of hiring a lawyer can include:

• Expertise and knowledge
• Strategic advantage
• Effective representation
• Reduced stress and anxiety

Expertise and Knowledge

Specialized attorneys deeply understand the specific area of law they practice.

In the case of traffic law, they are well-versed in the statutes, regulations, and precedents relevant to traffic violations in your jurisdiction.

They understand the nuances of local traffic legislation, which can be complex and vary significantly from one place to another.

Strategic Advantage

An attorney who has handled similar cases knows the best strategies in these situations.

They can anticipate the arguments the other side might make and prepare a strong defense tailored to the specifics of your case.

Their experience allows them to navigate the legal process more effectively and identify opportunities to challenge evidence or negotiate favorable outcomes.

Effective Representation

A specialized attorney can represent you effectively in court, presenting your case persuasively and advocating for your interests.

They are familiar with courtroom procedures and know how to effectively cross-examine witnesses, present evidence, and make legal arguments on your behalf.

This expertise can significantly improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety

Dealing with legal matters can be stressful and overwhelming, especially if facing severe consequences.

Hiring a specialized attorney who understands the complexities of traffic law can provide peace of mind, knowing that you have a skilled advocate fighting for your rights and working to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

They can handle the legal details and complexities, allowing you to focus on your recovery and moving forward.

Contact TorHoerman Law Today

If you’ve been involved in a failure-to-yield accident in St. Louis, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit with the help of an experienced failure-to-yield car accident lawyer can ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.

Act swiftly for the best possible legal outcome and begin the recovery and financial compensation process.

At TorHoerman Law, our legal experts have the knowledge, skills, and resources to handle your case effectively and fight for the justice you deserve.

We will aggressively pursue all available avenues for compensation and keep you informed throughout the process. 

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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