At The Gogel Law Firm, our St. Louis car accident attorney knows that you do not have to live in Missouri to cause a collision in this state.
St. Louis alone typically receives over 28 million visitors annually for leisure, conventions, meetings, and business travel. Millions drive from nearby states or access rental vehicles to move about the city for the duration of their stays.
They often lack familiarity with the local roadways, traffic patterns, and navigation, leading to mistakes such as missed exits, sudden lane changes, and confusion at intersections. This unfamiliarity can result in accidents, especially in busy or complex areas like downtown St. Louis.
Unfortunately, that’s not the only reason visitors cause crashes on our Missouri roadways. However, if an out-of-town driver’s negligence caused the crash, they are still liable for our clients’ complete recovery needs. Even if they return to their home state, their liability remains unchanged. We can help ensure that is true so our clients are not left chasing a driver who doesn’t want to face the consequences of their negligent actions.
What are the Most Common Reasons St. Louis Visitors Cause Car Accidents with Injuries?
Because most visitors are unfamiliar with the area, they rely heavily on GPS devices or smartphone navigation apps, which can distract them from paying full attention to the road. Following GPS directions too closely can lead to abrupt turns or stops, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Other common causes of visitor car accidents include, but are not limited to:
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Tourist Distractions
Tourists are often distracted by the sights and attractions of St. Louis, such as the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, or the city’s museums and parks. These distractions can take their focus off driving, leading to accidents.
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Inexperience with Local Driving Conditions
Visitors may be unfamiliar with local driving conditions, such as weather patterns, road construction, or specific traffic laws unique to Missouri. For example, unfamiliarity with winter driving conditions or heavy rain can contribute to accidents.
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Rental Cars
Many visitors use rental cars, and their unfamiliarity with the vehicle can lead to mistakes. Issues like unfamiliar controls, braking systems, or even the size and handling of the rental car can contribute to accidents.
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Fatigue and Jet Lag
Travel fatigue and jet lag can impair a visitor’s ability to drive safely. Long flights or road trips can lead to drowsiness, slower reaction times, and decreased awareness, making accidents more likely.
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Alcohol Consumption
Visitors often engage in leisure activities, which can include consuming alcohol. Driving under the influence is a significant risk factor for accidents, and visitors may underestimate their impairment or overestimate their ability to navigate unfamiliar roads while intoxicated.
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Heavy Traffic and Congestion
St. Louis is a major city with heavy traffic and congestion areas, especially during peak hours or events. Visitors unfamiliar with heavy traffic may become anxious or make poor decisions, leading to accidents.
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Failure to Follow Local Traffic Laws
Different states and cities have varying traffic laws and signals. Visitors may be unaware of specific local regulations, such as right turns on red, speed limits, or how to use turn lanes, contributing to accidents properly.
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Limited Parking and Maneuvering Skills
Finding parking in a busy city can be challenging for visitors. This can lead to illegal parking maneuvers, abrupt stops, or attempts to navigate tight spaces, all of which can result in collisions or pedestrian accidents.
Contact Our St. Louis Car Accident Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident caused by a driver visiting Missouri, contact our St. Louis personal injury attorney today to review your case by calling (314)-370-8173 or online to schedule a free consultation.
Our commitment is not just to win your case, but also to provide you with the support and knowledge of your legal rights and options. We will evaluate your case, help you understand your legal rights and options, and meet any deadlines that will allow you to pursue the best outcome for your unique claim.
