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  • Writer's pictureKenneth Powell

How Many Car Accidents Happen a Year in Missouri?

Car accidents happen every day- many resulting in serious injury and even death. Missouri is the 12th most deadly state in America for motor vehicle accidents and has a reputation for busy highways and dangerous roads.


There are roughly 150,000 car accidents in Missouri each year, although the number dipped slightly in 2020 due to reduced road traffic during the pandemic. Of those crashes, more than 1000 resulted in a fatality (based on 2021 data collected by the Missouri Department of Transportation.


Involvement in a car accident can change a person’s life forever, and they may be entitled to compensation. The physical, emotional, and financial recovery a person goes through in the aftermath of a Missouri car accident can be made easier when the victim receives the justice and support they deserve. Powell Law Firm can help make that happen.


A Few Key Missouri Car Accident Statistics

A Few Key Missouri Car Accident Statistics


  • Roughly one-third of Missouri car crashes result in an injury.

  • October is the most dangerous month of the year with the most Missouri car accidents annually (around 10%).

  • The month with the most fatalities (on average) is June.

  • Failure to wear a seatbelt is a significant factor in Missouri car accident statistics. More than 1000 seriously injured parties each year were not wearing one at the time of the crash.

  • Missouri car accidents led to the injury of almost 48,000 people in 2020.

  • Roughly 220 serious motor vehicle accidents were caused by drunk drivers. Of those crashes, the 30-39 age group was most responsible (28%)- closely followed by the 20-29 age group (27%).

  • Fewer than 30 pedestrians are killed in car accidents each year in Missouri (19 in 2020).

What Causes the Most Car Accidents in Missouri?


Reports show that the leading cause of car accidents in Missouri is distracted driving- most commonly caused by cell phones. Texting and driving is one of the major issues.


Drink driving is also one of the most common reasons for Missouri car crashes- as is eating while driving or driving too fast.


Interestingly, poor weather conditions are also one of the biggest dangers. Almost 21,000 motor vehicle accidents in Missouri (2020) happened in part due to bad weather, with heavy rain as the leading culprit.


Fatal Car Crashes in Missouri


The number of annual fatal car accidents in Missouri is on the rise, with increases noted over the last several years. Despite the reduction in overall incidents from 2019 to 2020, the number of fatalities rose by 12%.


In 2021, there were 1015 car accident fatalities in Missouri. Of those deaths, more than 40% were caused – at least partially- by speeding vehicles. Two-thirds of fatally injured victims were not wearing a seatbelt, and Jackson County had the most deaths of any Missouri county.


How Can Missouri Car Accident Attorney Help?


  • A personal injury attorney that specializes in car accidents knows every detail of the law and can use it to reach a fair and just result in each claim.

  • Negotiating with insurance companies and other parties is a difficult and delicate process, so it helps to have a dedicated, aggressive attorney leading the charge on a victim’s behalf.

  • Legal teams can help by gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and building a strong case while the victim takes the time they need to recover from their accident.


Why Contact Powell Law Firm?


Powell Law Firm has a team of St Louis automobile accident lawyers with years of specialized experience pursuing justice and compensation for car accident victims in this state. They help find answers to various questions or concerns, including if accident reports are considered a public record in Missouri.


The attorneys work tirelessly in pursuit of a fair settlement and leave no stone unturned on behalf of every client. With access to excellent resources, a network of important connections in Missouri, and a track record of success- Powell Law has all the ammunition a car accident victim needs to launch their claim and fight for their rights.


Speak to an Expert in Missouri Car Accident Law Today


Don’t wait to seek professional, dedicated, and expert legal assistance for yourself or a loved one following a car accident in Missouri. Contact Powell Law Firm today for a free case evaluation and consultation to find out how to move forward.


Tens of thousands of people are injured in Missouri car accidents annually- don’t let your pain and suffering slip through the cracks.

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