If you were injured in a St. Louis car accident caused by someone else, you may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering and other losses. A St. Louis car accident lawyer can investigate fault, preserve evidence, deal with insurers and help you pursue the full value of your claim.
If you were injured in a St. Louis car accident caused by someone else, you may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering and other losses. A St. Louis car accident lawyer can investigate fault, preserve evidence, deal with insurers and help you pursue the full value of your claim.
For more than 30 years, Roach Law has helped injured Missouri drivers and their families understand their rights, protect their claims and move forward after serious crashes. Whether you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision, intersection crash, hit-and-run or another wreck, we’ll help you understand your options from the beginning.
Schedule your free consultation today.
Meet the Attorney Behind Roach Law
Car accident claims make up a significant part of what we do.
Kevin Roach has represented injured drivers and passengers throughout St. Louis and across Missouri, helping clients recover after crashes caused by distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving and countless other forms of negligence. That experience shapes every case we handle. It also shapes the guidance you’ll find throughout this page because it’s based on real cases, real conversations and the questions people ask us every day after a crash.
Read Kevin’s Story →
- Explain your legal options and address your rights under Missouri state law
- Coordinate a prompt investigation into your crash to understand causation and liability
- Gather key pieces of evidence, including medical records, dashcam footage, photographs, witness testimony, cell phone records, and the accident report
- Enlist the help of expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionist specialists, medical professionals, forensic experts, mechanics, and psychologists
- Determine which strategies the insurance company might employ to fight your case, such as blaming you for the wreck or downplaying the severity of your damages
- Calculate what your car accident case is worth
- File your claim with the insurance company and/or the local St. Louis County court
- Represent you during conversations with the defense
- Pursue a substantial settlement during the negotiation process
- Fight your car accident lawsuit at trial if the defense refuses to make a legitimate settlement offer
We’re smart negotiators and will work to get you a meaningful settlement offer early on in the claims process. However, if the defense won’t cooperate, our top-rated litigators will not hesitate to take your lawsuit to a jury. There, we’ll demonstrate just how much of an impact the auto accident has had on your life and convince the jury that you deserve a life-changing monetary award.
Your first case evaluation is free, so reach out to our attorneys to get started today.
The Crash Is Over. The Questions Are Just Beginning.
Most people don’t call a lawyer from the side of the road.
They call a day or two later, when the shock begins to wear off and the questions start piling up.
Should I speak to the insurance company?
What if I felt fine yesterday but I’m in pain today?
How do I know whether the settlement they’re offering is fair?
Do I actually need a lawyer?
We’ve found that the biggest challenge after a car accident usually isn’t understanding what happened. It’s knowing what to do next.
That’s why this page exists.
Whether you’re dealing with relatively minor injuries or a life-changing collision, we’ll help you understand your options, avoid common mistakes and make informed decisions from the very beginning.
Why Missouri Drivers Trust Roach Law
- 30+ Years Helping Missouri Families
- Millions Recovered for Clients
- Thousands of Injury Claims Handled
- Free Consultation • No Fee Unless We Win
Choosing a car accident lawyer isn’t just about hiring someone to negotiate with an insurance company.
It’s about finding a team that understands how a crash can affect every part of your life, from your health and finances to your family and future.
We Know How Insurance Companies Build Their Cases
Insurance companies begin investigating accidents almost immediately.
They gather statements, review police reports, inspect vehicle damage and assess liability, often before you’ve had time to process what happened.
Our job is to protect your interests just as thoroughly.
From preserving evidence to handling communication with insurers, we work to make sure your claim reflects the full impact the accident has had on your life.
Every Crash Tells a Different Story
When you file an insurance claim or lawsuit after a St. Louis auto accident, you’ll have the opportunity to request compensatory damages.
Compensatory awards fall into two different categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Car accidents can be expensive. Economic damages are designed to alleviate some of the financial stress you experience because of a wreck.
nomic damages for verifiable losses and projected costs, as supported by receipts, invoices, bills, and wage statements.
Honest Advice From Your First Conversation
Some people contact us because they know they want to pursue a claim. Others simply want answers before making any decisions.
We’ll explain your legal options clearly, answer your questions honestly and help you understand what makes sense for your situation. If taking legal action isn’t the right path, we’ll tell you that too.
Since these types of damages are so subjective, you’ll need to prove just how much of an impact your car accident has had on your life. Our auto accident attorneys in St. Louis will bring in experts to evaluate your case, testify on your behalf, and add the support needed to maximize your recovery.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
We work on contingency, which means our fees are entirely dependent on the outcome of the cases we handle.
If we don’t win compensation for your car accident case, you don’t pay. No exceptions. No excuses. That’s a promise we can make to you.
When we win, our fee is a percentage that comes directly from your award. Typically, you can expect to pay your attorney between 33 and 40 percent of your financial recovery.
Car accidents might be expensive, but hiring an attorney to help you seek damages doesn’t have to break the bank. When you choose Roach Law, our Missouri car accident attorneys will represent you for nothing out-of-pocket.
Learn more about our contingency fee legal representation by contacting our St. Louis law office today.
Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Partly At Fault for a Missouri Car Accident?
Yes, as long as you’re not entirely responsible for causing your car accident. Under Missouri’s pure comparative fault law, damages are reduced proportionately to fault. The more responsibility you share for causing a car accident, the less compensation you can receive when your claim is resolved.
Let’s say you’re injured in a rear-end collision at the intersection of North Grand and Montgomery. You suffer damages worth $200,000. However, you’re assigned half of the blame for the auto accident because you were texting and driving. As a result, the maximum award you can receive is $100,000.
The insurance company will not bat an eye before trying to blame you for your car accident. If they succeed, they can significantly reduce how much money you’ll be able to recover or prevent you from getting anything at all.
Our car accident lawyers in St. Louis will be ready to fight back against these claims, which are often made without anything backing them up. We’ll demand proof, provide evidence of our own, and work to limit how much – if any – liability you’re assigned.
Will My Car Accident Case Go to Trial?
Statistically speaking, probably not. Only 4 to 5 percent of personal injury cases get to trial. Most are settled privately before things get that far.
At the end of the day, whether your case settles or goes to trial is up to you.
- Has the insurance company made you a fair settlement offer?
- How much does your legal team believe your car accident case is worth?
- How far apart are the parties when it comes to valuation?
- Is the insurance company disputing liability?
- Are you being blamed for the car accident?
- Do you have the patience to reject lowball offers and bring your case to trial?
Even though it might say otherwise, the insurance company doesn’t want to go to trial. Trials can be time-consuming and expensive. The insurer wants to settle your claim as quickly as possible for as little as possible. You can force their hand by showing them that you’re not afraid to take matters to a jury. How? By hiring a renowned St. Louis trial attorney to handle your car accident case.
Choosing Roach Law shows the insurance company that you will not tolerate lowball offers and will bring your case to trial if they don’t negotiate fairly. This, in turn, can accelerate more meaningful conversations and get you a significantly higher settlement offer early on in the process.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in St. Louis?
The decisions you make during the first few hours and days after a crash can have a lasting impact on both your recovery and your claim.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in St. Louis, we recommend that you:
- Call 911 and report the accident.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel fine.
- Take photographs of the vehicles, road conditions and any visible injuries.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with everyone involved.
- Collect contact details for any witnesses.
- Keep copies of medical records, invoices and repair estimates.
- Avoid discussing fault at the scene.
- Speak with an experienced car accident lawyer before accepting an insurance settlement.
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s often worth getting medical advice.
We’ve seen many people feel relatively normal immediately after a collision, only to discover days later that adrenaline had masked a more serious injury.able to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter when you’re in a wreck, you can reach out to us for the support you need.
Dangerous Roads and Intersections in St. Louis
While a serious accident can happen anywhere, some roads and intersections in the St. Louis area see collisions far more frequently than others.
Locations that have historically experienced high numbers of crashes include:
- Gravois Avenue and Morgan Ford Road
- Brentwood Boulevard near Interstate 64 (Highway 40)
- Memorial Drive at Lumière Place Boulevard
Drivers should also take extra care on busy highways including I-64, I-44, I-70 and I-270, where higher speeds and heavier traffic increase the risk of serious collisions.
Knowing where accidents commonly occur won’t prevent every crash, but it can help drivers stay alert in areas where extra caution is needed.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Most car accidents aren’t unavoidable.
They’re the result of someone making a preventable mistake.
Some of the most common causes we see include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Driver fatigue
- Following too closely
- Failing to yield
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Unsafe lane changes
- Aggressive driving
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Defective vehicle components
- Dangerous road conditions
Identifying what caused the collision is one of the most important parts of building a successful claim because it helps establish who should be held responsible.
Common Car Accident Injuries
No two collisions are the same, and neither are the injuries they cause.
We’ve represented clients recovering from everything from soft tissue injuries to life-changing trauma.
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Nerve damage
- Burn injuries
- Internal injuries
- Catastrophic injuries
If your injuries become more serious in the days following a crash, don’t assume you’ve lost your opportunity to pursue compensation. Delayed symptoms are far more common than many people realise.
St. Louis Car Accident Resources
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, knowing where to turn can make the days that follow a little less overwhelming. The resources below may help you access medical care, obtain important documentation and begin moving forward after a crash.
Emergency Assistance
If anyone has been seriously injured, call 911 immediately or seek emergency medical attention at the nearest hospital.
Request Your Missouri Crash Report
If your accident was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, you can search for preliminary crash information online or request an official crash report once it becomes available.
Missouri State Highway Patrol Crash Reports
Official crash reports are generally available after processing. If you need an official copy or have questions about your report, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol Traffic Division at (573) 526-6113.
St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Crash Reports
If your accident occurred within the City of St. Louis and was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, you may obtain your crash report through the department’s Records Service Center.
St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Records Service Center
Crash reports are typically available within five business days, although availability can vary depending on the circumstances of the investigation.
Emergency Medical Care
If you believe you’ve suffered any injury, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, including concussions, internal injuries and whiplash, may not be immediately obvious after a collision.
Major hospitals serving the St. Louis area include:
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital
One Barnes-Jewish Hospital Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63110 - Mercy Hospital St. Louis
615 S. New Ballas Road, St. Louis, MO 63141 - Missouri Baptist Medical Center
3015 N. Ballas Road, St. Louis, MO 63131 - St. Luke’s Hospital
232 S. Woods Mill Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017
The hospitals listed above are provided solely as a public resource. Roach Law does not endorse, recommend or receive compensation from any healthcare provider.
What We’ve Learned After 20+ Years
Representing people after car accidents has taught us that the legal case is only part of the story.
These are some of the patterns we see time and again.
People Often Underestimate Their Injuries
It’s common for drivers to walk away from a crash believing they’re uninjured, only to wake up the next morning with neck pain, headaches or limited movement.
That’s one reason we encourage people to seek medical attention promptly, even if they initially feel fine.
The First Insurance Offer Is Rarely the Final One
Insurance companies often reach out quickly.
Sometimes that’s simply part of the claims process.
Other times, early settlement offers are made before the full extent of your injuries, future treatment needs or lost income is known.
Understanding what your claim may actually be worth before accepting an offer can make a significant difference.
Evidence Doesn’t Wait
Accident scenes change.
Vehicles are repaired.
Witnesses become difficult to contact.
Security footage is deleted.
The sooner important evidence is preserved, the easier it becomes to build a clear picture of what happened.
Every Family Experiences a Crash Differently
The same collision can affect two families in completely different ways.
For one person, it may mean missing a few weeks of work.
For another, it may mean ongoing rehabilitation, chronic pain or permanent lifestyle changes.
That’s why we believe every claim should reflect the impact the accident has had on your life, not someone else’s.
What Happens Next?
If you’re considering speaking with a lawyer, it’s natural to wonder what the process looks like.
While every case is different, most car accident claims follow the same three stages.
We Listen
Everything begins with a conversation.
We’ll ask what happened, discuss your injuries, answer your questions and explain your legal options so you can decide what feels right for you.
We Build Your Claim
If you choose to move forward, we’ll investigate the collision, gather evidence, review your medical records and document how the accident has affected your life.
Strong claims are built on preparation.
We Advocate For You
Most car accident claims are resolved through negotiation.
If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we’re prepared to protect your interests throughout the litigation process.
Our goal is always the same: helping you move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims in Missouri
Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?
Not every accident requires legal representation, but it’s often worth speaking with a lawyer if you’ve been injured, missed work, require ongoing medical treatment or are dealing with an insurance company. An early conversation can help you understand your rights before making important decisions.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
Roach Law handles car accident claims on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay attorney’s fees upfront. We only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Missouri?
In most cases, Missouri allows five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Different deadlines may apply in certain situations, including wrongful death claims and cases involving government entities, so it’s important to seek legal advice as early as possible.
How long does a car accident claim take in Missouri?
There is no fixed timeline. A straightforward claim may resolve relatively quickly, while cases involving serious injuries, disputed fault, ongoing medical treatment or litigation can take much longer. The important point is to allow enough time to understand the full effect of your injuries before agreeing to a final settlement.
What is the average settlement for a car accident in Missouri?
There is no reliable average that can predict what an individual claim is worth. Settlement value depends on factors such as injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, future treatment, insurance coverage and fault. A lawyer can assess those factors in the context of your specific case.
Will my case go to court?
Probably not. Most car accident claims settle without going to trial. However, every case should be prepared as though litigation is possible, because thorough preparation often leads to stronger settlement discussions.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
Depending on your insurance coverage, you may still be able to recover compensation through uninsured or underinsured motorist benefits. We’ll review your available options and explain what coverage may apply to your situation.
Can I still bring a claim if my injuries appeared later?
Yes. Some injuries, including whiplash, concussions and certain spinal injuries, don’t become fully apparent until hours or even days after a collision. Delayed symptoms don’t necessarily prevent you from pursuing compensation.
Related Resources
Learn More About Car Accident Claims in Missouri
The more you understand the claims process, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions after a collision.
Explore these additional resources:
7 Things Insurance Companies Don’t Tell You After a Missouri Car Accident
Learn about the tactics insurance companies commonly use and how to protect yourself after a crash.
5 Common Mistakes We See After a Missouri Car Accident (And How to Avoid Them)
Discover the mistakes we see most often and how avoiding them can strengthen both your recovery and your claim.
What Determines the Value of a Missouri Personal Injury Claim?
Understand the factors that influence settlement value, including medical treatment, lost income and long-term recovery.
Who Is Responsible? Understanding Liability in Missouri Personal Injury Cases
Learn how liability is established under Missouri law and why fault plays such an important role in car accident claims.
Ready to Talk?
Your Recovery Starts With a Conversation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath on your own.
Whether you’re dealing with medical treatment, vehicle repairs, insurance adjusters or simply trying to understand your options, we’re here to provide clear guidance and honest advice.
Waiting too long can make it harder to preserve evidence and may affect important legal deadlines. If you’ve been injured, don’t wait to understand your options.
Contact our St. Louis car accident lawyers today to schedule your free consultation. Let’s talk about what happened, answer your questions and help you take the next step with confidence.
Highly Rated Medical Centers In St. Louis
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital – One Barnes-Jewish Hospital Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63110
- Mercy Hospital St. Louis – 615 S New Ballas Rd, St. Louis, MO 63141
- Missouri Baptist Medical Center – 3015 N Ballas Rd, St. Louis, MO 63131
- St. Luke’s Hospital – 232 S Woods Mill Rd, Chesterfield, MO 63017
*Disclaimer – we do not endorse these companies or profit from having them listed on our website.
St. Louis Car Accident Related Blog Posts
- Can You Sue for a Car Accident in Missouri if You’re Not Hurt?
- FAQs: Car Accident Reports in Missouri
- What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?
Visit Our Car Accident And Personal Injury Law Office in St. Louis, MO
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers
1010 Market St Suite 1605, St. Louis, MO 63101
(636) 519-0085
What Our St. Louis Clients Have to Say About Us
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TpHCboz39gZtzSck9
Read more of our here.
Car Accident Infographic
