Missouri, with its extensive network of highways and roads, including major interstates like I-70 and I-44, faces significant traffic safety challenges. The Missouri State Highway Patrol's Statewide Traffic Accident Records System is a primary source for understanding the state's crash data, including fatalities, injuries, and the main factors contributing to these incidents. The state's efforts to mitigate traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries are outlined in Missouri's Strategic Highway Safety Plan, known as Show-Me Zero, aiming for zero fatalities on public roadways. Factors contributing to traffic collisions in Missouri include speed, alcohol involvement, and distracted driving, with each playing a significant role in the overall safety of Missouri's roadways.
The state has seen a range of efforts to address these issues, from legislative measures like the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which prohibits the use of handheld devices while driving, to public safety campaigns such as Buckle Up Phone Down, aimed at promoting seatbelt use and discouraging phone use while driving.
Despite these efforts, Missouri still records a significant number of traffic fatalities and serious injuries each year, underscoring the ongoing need for public awareness, education, and adherence to traffic laws to enhance road safety. The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety plays a critical role in this endeavor, bringing together safety advocates from across the state to work towards the common goal of reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries.
The state has seen a range of efforts to address these issues, from legislative measures like the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, which prohibits the use of handheld devices while driving, to public safety campaigns such as Buckle Up Phone Down, aimed at promoting seatbelt use and discouraging phone use while driving.
Despite these efforts, Missouri still records a significant number of traffic fatalities and serious injuries each year, underscoring the ongoing need for public awareness, education, and adherence to traffic laws to enhance road safety. The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety plays a critical role in this endeavor, bringing together safety advocates from across the state to work towards the common goal of reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries.
Missouri's roads present various risks for motorists, with certain routes standing out for their high accident rates and fatalities. Based on recent analyses, here are the five most dangerous roads in Missouri:
Here are the steps you should take after a car accident in Missouri:
Immediately stop your vehicle without obstructing traffic. Use hazard lights, flares, or reflective markers to warn other drivers, especially during low visibility conditions. Ensuring safety at the accident scene is paramount to prevent additional collisions.
Assess yourself and others for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, it's crucial to call 911. The dispatcher will decide if emergency services are necessary and dispatch police and ambulances as required.
Exchange names, addresses, driver's license numbers, vehicle registrations, and insurance details with other involved parties. It's essential for the car accident claims process. However, avoid discussing fault at the scene to protect your legal interests.
Take comprehensive photos and videos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and injuries if present. These can be invaluable for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.
Missouri law mandates reporting any accident that results in injury, death, or significant property damage to the police immediately. Additionally, if an accident involves an uninsured motorist and meets certain criteria (injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500), a report must be filed with the Missouri Department of Revenue within 30 days.
Promptly inform your insurance company about the accident. Providing an early account can help in the claims process, even if you believe you're not at fault. Most insurance policies require this immediate notification.
Some injuries might not be immediately apparent. Visiting a healthcare provider can ensure that any hidden injuries are treated and documented, which is crucial for insurance claims and potential compensation.
For serious accidents, especially where liability is unclear or significant injuries occurred, consulting with a car accident lawyer can provide guidance on your rights, potential compensation, and the legal process ahead.
Seat Belt and Child Restraint LawsMissouri law requires all drivers and passengers to wear seat belts. Children under eight must be secured in a child safety seat or booster seat that meets federal safety standards. Compliance with these regulations is critical for ensuring the safety of young passengers.
Speed Limits and Driving PracticesMissouri sets speed limits based on road types, traffic density, and environmental conditions. Residential areas, school zones, and construction zones often have reduced speed limits to enhance safety. Drivers are expected to adjust their speed for adverse weather conditions, heavy traffic, or when approaching a congested area. Following these speed regulations is essential for safe driving and avoiding traffic collisions.
Electronic Device Use While DrivingMissouri has updated its laws on electronic device use while driving with the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, effective August 28, 2023. This law prohibits all drivers from using handheld electronic communication devices to ensure safety and reduce distractions.
DUI/DWI EnforcementDriving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Missouri, with the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit set at 0.08%. The state enforces strict penalties for DUI/DWI offenses, including fines, license suspension, and possible incarceration, to deter impaired driving and enhance road safety.
Littering PenaltiesLittering from a vehicle is not only environmentally harmful but also subject to legal penalties in Missouri. Fines can reach up to $1,000, with potential jail time for severe offenses. This law reflects Missouri's commitment to maintaining clean and safe roadways.
Local Traffic OrdinancesDrivers in Missouri must also be aware of and comply with local traffic ordinances, which may include specific rules on speed limits, parking, and road usage. These local regulations are designed to address unique traffic and safety concerns within different municipalities.
Sharing the RoadMissouri places a strong emphasis on the shared responsibility of road usage among drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and operators of other vehicles like motorcycles and large trucks. Laws dictate clear protocols for yielding, passing, and maintaining safe distances to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all road users. Special attention is given to emergency vehicles, school buses, and funeral processions, with specific requirements for yielding and passing to protect those most vulnerable.
Vehicle Requirements and InspectionsMissouri requires all vehicles to be registered and insured, with annual safety inspections to ensure they meet state safety standards. Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and other vehicle equipment must be in proper working order to pass inspection and be deemed safe for road use.
Headlight UseMissouri law requires drivers to use headlights from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise. Additionally, headlights must be used whenever weather conditions (rain, fog, snow) significantly reduce visibility.
Move Over LawMissouri's Move Over Law mandates that drivers must slow down and change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights. This includes police cars, ambulances, fire trucks, and tow trucks.
Missouri traffic laws mirror several other states in many ways, but the state does have some strange and unique laws that it does not share with any others.
