call for a free consultation
(816) 364-1650
call for a free consultation
(816) 364-1650Rear-end collisions happen in seconds, but the consequences can last for months or even years. These are some of the most common car accidents on Missouri roads, and while they may appear simple at first glance, figuring out who is at fault in a rear-end collision isn’t always clear. Fault can depend on driver behavior, road conditions, and whether traffic laws were followed during the crash.
In many rear-end accidents, the trailing driver is found at fault. Missouri law requires motorists to leave enough space to stop safely and react to traffic conditions. Still, not every case is one-sided. If the lead driver brakes suddenly without cause, fails to signal, or behaves unpredictably, fault may be shared depending on the circumstances.
If you’re dealing with rising medical costs, damage to your vehicle, or delays from the insurance company, consulting a car accident lawyer in St. Joseph, MO at Montee Law Firm can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer in Missouri
In Missouri, fault for a rear-end crash is often placed on the driver who struck the other vehicle. Courts apply a legal principle known as the rear-end collision doctrine. This means that when a car is stopped or moving appropriately and another hits it from behind, that impact alone may be enough to suggest negligence. The Missouri Supreme Court clarified this in Clevenger v. Walters, where the justices held that such a situation can support a fault finding unless the rear driver can show they were not to blame.
This means that simply proving a rear-end crash occurred is often enough to suggest the rear driver was negligent, unless evidence shows otherwise. Drivers are expected to:
When these duties aren’t met, liability typically falls on the driver behind.
The lead driver may also be partially or fully responsible in certain scenarios. While the rear-end collision doctrine tends toward blaming the rear driver, exceptions apply under Missouri’s comparative fault system, especially when evaluating who is at fault in a rear-end collision under less straightforward circumstances.
Examples of lead driver negligence may include the following:
When fault is divided, both drivers may bear a percentage of responsibility, potentially reducing the compensation awarded to each under Missouri’s pure comparative fault rule. Under this system, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found 20% at fault, your total award would be reduced by that amount.
Establishing liability requires a detailed review of the accident. Insurance companies, attorneys, and courts typically evaluate several key elements, including driver statements, eyewitness accounts, police reports, the pattern of vehicle damage, and any available surveillance or dash cam footage.
In Missouri, vehicle owners are required to carry liability insurance. As outlined by the Missouri Department of Revenue, the minimum coverage includes:
In addition, uninsured motorist coverage must provide at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This insurance generally applies when one party is found legally responsible for the crash.
No Fees Unless We Win
Call For A Free Consultation
(816) 760-2788
Strong evidence can make a major difference when pursuing a car accident claim. After a crash, it’s important to gather as much supporting material as possible. This may include photos of the damage and road conditions, medical records, a copy of the police report, witness names and contact details, and any repair estimates or inspection findings. The more complete the documentation, the stronger the case.
If those records suggest the lead driver contributed to the crash, your attorney can use that to question the insurance company’s position and work toward a fair resolution.
Rear-end crashes may seem straightforward, but insurers often dispute claims or delay payouts. Act fast after any crash involving injuries or questions about who is at fault in a rear-end collision. Delays can harm your case.
At Montee Law Firm, we help St. Joseph clients recover compensation for rear-end collisions and know how to handle Missouri insurance tactics. Call (816) 760-2788 to speak with a St. Joseph car accident attorney. Your consultation is free.
Our successful case results are a true reflection of the values and virtues we believe in and uphold at the Montee Law Firm.
Client Reviews
3 month ago
Extremely professional, helpful, and knowledgeable group.
“Extremely professional, helpful, and knowledgeable group. I have the highest praise for this group of attorneys. If you, like me have an aging parent or parents please contact this group, especially Amber Thaling, to guide you through the necessary steps.”
View More Reviews on Google Maps.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney James Montee, who has spent his legal career helping injured individuals and their families.
Many drivers in St. Joseph often ask, Is Missouri a no-fault state? The answer is no. Missouri uses an...
A crash can instantly turn your day upside down, leaving you confused and overwhelmed. Knowing what to do after...
The hands-free law in Missouri has reshaped how drivers approach technology on the road, especially in communities like St....
call us: (816) 364-1650