Whiplash & Whiplash Injury St. Louis

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How to Get a Police Report for a St. Louis Car Accident

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In St. Louis, you can generally obtain a copy of your police report by contacting the Records Division of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

Car accidents can be overwhelming and traumatic experiences, but obtaining a police report can provide crucial information to help you navigate the aftermath. A police report is a detailed document that describes the events leading up to and following the accident. It includes important information such as the contact details of all involved parties, road and weather conditions, the directions and points of impact of both vehicles, and any evidence of drug or alcohol use by drivers.

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police at the scene of a st. louis car accident

This article will discuss how to get a police report after a car accident in St. Louis and why it’s essential to your case. Whether you’re dealing with insurance companies, filing a personal injury claim, or seeking compensation, a police report can help provide valuable evidence to support your case.

How to Get a Police Report After a St. Louis Car Accident

In St. Louis, you can generally obtain a copy of your police report by contacting the Records Division of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. You can do this in person, by mail, or online through the department’s website. Depending on the department’s processing times, receiving your report may take a few days to a few weeks.

What Information is Included in a Police Report?

Contact Information of All Involved Parties and Their Insurers

One of the essential pieces of information in a police report is the contact information of all parties involved in the accident. This includes all drivers, passengers, and witnesses’ names, phone numbers, and addresses. Additionally, the report should also list the insurance information of each driver. This information is crucial in filing an injury claim and ensuring that all parties involved are held responsible for their actions.

Road, Weather, and Lighting Conditions 

In addition to providing personal details about those involved, police reports also document road conditions at the time of the accident. 

For example, if there was construction going on or poor visibility due to weather or darkness that may have contributed to the collision, this will be noted in the police report. 

This info can often be used as evidence during court proceedings or when submitting an insurance claim. 

The Directions That Both Vehicles Were Travelling and Points of Impact

The police report may also describe the sitting positions of all vehicle occupants, the directions both vehicles were traveling, and the impact points. This info can give insight into the intensity of the crash and how each person was impacted by it. 

Official Photographs and Bodycam Footage

The police report may include official photographs and bodycam footage of the accident scene. These visual aids can be used to recreate the accident and show how it occurred. 

Drugs or Alcohol Test Results

A police report may also indicate whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the accident. If the officer suspects that drugs or alcohol played a role, they’ll conduct field sobriety tests and take a breathalyzer test to determine if the driver was impaired. If the test results indicate that the driver was under the influence, this information can be used to prove negligence on the part of the driver and strengthen your case.

Statements from Eyewitnesses

If there were any eyewitnesses to the accident, their statements are typically included in the police report. These statements can be used to corroborate your version of events and strengthen your claim. For example, if an eyewitness saw the other driver texting while driving or running a red light, this information can be used to show that they were at fault for the accident.

Speak With a St. Louis Car Accident

A police report can be a valuable resource after a car accident, providing critical information to help you navigate the aftermath. However, it’s important to remember that the legal process can be complicated, and insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer who can help guide you through the process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. 

At The Hoffman Law Firm, we have over 25 years of experience helping clients navigate the aftermath of car accidents and fighting for their rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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Questions to Ask a Witness to a Car Accident – St. Louis Injury Lawyer

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Asking St. Louis car accident witnesses the right questions can help build a strong, well-documented case.

If you’ve been in a car accident and are looking to build a strong case, working closely with an experienced car accident lawyer is essential. One of the critical elements in building a solid case is obtaining statements from witnesses who were present at the scene of the accident.

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st. louis car accident witness on the phone

The importance of asking the right questions when questioning a car accident witness cannot be overemphasized. These specific questions can help build a strong case and ensure that all facts are well-documented and won’t be affected by any inaccuracies or omissions due to memory loss or bias.

Can You Go Into Detail About How the Crash Occurred?

One of the key questions to ask a witness is to go into detail about how the crash occurred. While your account of the accident may not be enough to determine who was at fault, asking a witness for their version of events can be extremely helpful. It’s important to keep the dialogue open and inviting, focusing on finding answers rather than making accusations. Follow-up questions such as whether either vehicle tried to swerve or slam on its brakes, or what the speed of each car was, can provide more detail into what happened leading up to and during the crash.

Do You Know Anyone Involved in the Accident?

It’s also important to ask whether the witness knows anyone involved in the accident. This question can help avoid biased testimonies from people who have personal connections to the parties involved. Doing so will help you build a stronger case with more reliable evidence.

Did You See Any Bystanders Who Might Be Witnesses Like You?

Expanding your list of witnesses by asking whether any bystanders might have witnessed the accident can also be helpful. Follow up this question by asking who was with the witness when the accident happened. The person they were with may have a better perspective of what occurred or noticed details that otherwise may have been missed.

Did You Hear Anything That the Other Driver Said?

After a car accident, parties involved can start arguing and making accusations against each other. Therefore, it’s crucial that you follow up with any witnesses at the accident scene and ask them if they heard the other driver say something important. Knowing the exact dialogue spoken can help build a more accurate overall picture of what happened in the crash and highlight any emotions or psychological states of those involved in the incident.

What Is Your Contact Information?

Finally, it’s easy to forget to ask for contact details and other relevant identifying information from witnesses at the scene of an accident, especially when emotions are running high and there’s a lot of confusion. Don’t make this mistake. Ensure you collect your witnesses’ names and contact information so you can contact them if needed.

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been in a car accident, it’s crucial to work closely with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer who can help you build a strong case. An experienced attorney can ensure the right questions are asked when questioning a car accident witness. They can also ensure that all facts are well-documented and won’t be affected by inaccuracies or omissions due to memory loss or bias. Don’t leave your case to chance; work with an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney to get the compensation you deserve.

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Scars From a St. Louis Car Accident

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Scarring and disfigurement from a car accident can be devastating. Here’s what you need to know about the effects, common injuries, and what you can do to protect your legal rights.

Scarring and disfigurement are common injuries that can result from car accidents. These injuries can significantly impact a victim’s quality of life and ability to work. While generally not life-threatening, they can be challenging to cope with and may occur alongside more severe car accident injuries. For instance, burn victims may suffer from scarring and disfigurement in addition to their injuries’ physical pain and trauma.

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st. louis man with face injury after a car accident

Psychological Effects of Scarring and Disfigurement

The psychological effects of scarring and disfigurement should not be overlooked. Some victims may experience self-consciousness, decreased self-confidence, and relationship problems. Negative reactions from others can compound these difficulties, leading to severe depression.

Common Scarring and Disfigurement Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents can result in various scarring and disfigurement injuries, such as lacerations, facial injuries, dental injuries, burns, and eye injuries. Unfortunately, victims of these injuries may face challenges getting the support and compensation they need. Insurance companies may argue that cosmetic treatments are not covered and may underestimate the severity of scarring and disfigurement.

Effective Treatment Options for Scarring and Disfigurement

Effective treatment for scarring and disfigurement can be costly, requiring skin grafts, fillers, and cosmetic surgeries. Victims of car accidents that result in scarring and disfigurement may be entitled to compensation if another driver’s negligence caused the accident. It is important to seek the help of an experienced St. Louis car accident attorney to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.

Legal Options for Victims of St. Louis Car Accidents with Scarring and Disfigurement

If you or someone you know has suffered from scarring and disfigurement due to a car accident, contact a St. Louis car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options. At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. 24/7, we have over 25 years of experience protecting the rights of injured car accident victims. We can evaluate your case for free and help you understand your legal rights and options.

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St. Louis Car Accidents Involving Joggers

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These tips can help you stay safe while jogging and help prevent St. Louis car accidents involving pedestrians.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced jogger, staying safe while running is essential. Thousands of pedestrians, including joggers and runners, are injured or killed yearly in traffic accidents. In 2020, for example, there were an estimated 104,000 ER visits for non-fatal car accident injuries for pedestrians. It’s also estimated that one in six car accident victims who lost their lives in 2020 were pedestrians.

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st. louis jogger running on the road

If you jog regularly, here are some tips to help you avoid pedestrian accidents. 

Avoiding Car Accidents as a Jogger

Stay On Designated Paths or Sidewalks 

When out for a run or jog, it’s essential to stick to designated paths or sidewalks. Not only does this keep you away from traffic, but it also gives you more visibility when crossing roads or intersections. This will make it easier for drivers to see you.

Wear Bright Or Reflective Clothing 

Wear bright or reflective clothing if you plan on running at night or in low-light conditions. This will maximize your visibility and make it easier for drivers to see you coming down the road. 

Follow Road Laws And Obey Signals 

Make sure you’re following all traffic signals and laws when jogging. Always look both ways before crossing a street, and obey all stop signs and lights.

Run Against the Flow of Traffic

In addition to following traffic laws, it’s also crucial for joggers to run against the flow of traffic (i.e., facing traffic). This helps ensure that drivers can easily spot you as they approach so they can adjust their speed accordingly if needed. 

Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions 

Remain alert while jogging. Listening to music or using headphones can be dangerous because they limit your ability to hear traffic or other potential hazards in your immediate vicinity. If you decide to use headphones, ensure the volume is low enough to hear cars, trucks, and other people in your area. Additionally, avoid looking at your phone while running, as this can distract you from any possible dangers nearby. 

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

With these tips in mind, joggers should be able to stay safe while out on their runs! That said, it’s worth noting that these tips are not foolproof, and accidents can still happen despite our best efforts. If you have been injured in a pedestrian car accident, and are looking for an attorney to help you pursue your rightful compensation, contact The Hoffman Law Firm. Our St. Louis car accident attorneys have over 25 years of helping car accident victims, including those involved in pedestrian accidents.

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Can Allergies Contribute to a St. Louis Car Accident?

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Symptoms of allergies can interfere with a driver’s ability to focus and may increase the risk of a St. Louis car accident.

Seasonal allergies can cause symptoms like sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, and congestion. These symptoms can interfere with your ability to focus while driving and may even put you at risk of an accident. Additionally, the medications used to manage allergies can also affect your driving. 

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st. louis driver with allergies

Many allergy medications have side effects that could affect your ability to drive safely. Here are some common side effects, what you can do to stay safe, and what steps to take if you are involved in a car accident with a negligent driver.

Blurred Vision

One common side effect of some allergy medications is blurred vision. This symptom can be especially dangerous for drivers as it reduces their ability to see signs, people, and other things on the road. If your vision is ever blurry while driving, you should pull over to a safe location until your vision returns to normal. 

Drowsiness 

Many allergy medications contain elements that can cause drowsiness and excessive sleepiness in some people. These feelings are most commonly associated with antihistamines but can also occur when taking decongestants. Drowsiness makes it difficult for drivers to stay alert behind the wheel, so if you feel drowsy after taking an allergy medication, you should avoid driving until the feeling passes. 

Fainting

Some allergy medicines may also cause fainting. This is particularly true for those who take large doses of over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants – accidentally or intentionally. Fainting while driving not only puts the driver’s life in danger — it also puts other drivers and pedestrians at risk. 

Slowed Movements or Reactions

Another side effect that some people may experience while taking certain allergy medication is slowed movements or reactions. This could impede a driver’s response time should they need to brake suddenly or swerve out of harm’s way quickly. It’s essential to understand how your body reacts to different types of medications before getting behind the wheel so that you can be aware of any possible delays in reaction time while driving.

If a driver has allergies and is taking allergy medication, they need to take extra precautionary steps to ensure their safety and the safety of others while they are behind the wheel. 

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve recently been involved in an accident and suspect the other driver was under the influence of medication, The Hoffmann Law Firm is here for you. Our St. Louis car accident lawyer has over 25 years of experience and strives to help our clients get the compensation they deserve.

We can help you gather evidence, build a compelling case, and fight any evidence and tricks that the defendant may try to use against you. Give us a call today for a free case evaluation.

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St. Louis Car Accidents Caused by Flooded Roads

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From hidden road conditions to hydroplaning, here is what every driver needs to know about the potential for a car accident due to flooded roads.

As the weather changes and rain falls, drivers face an increased risk of encountering flooded roads. Because these roads can be a challenge to traverse, there are several dangers you should be aware of. From hidden road conditions to hydroplaning, here is what every driver needs to know about navigating flooded roads. 

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car driving on a flooded road

Hidden Road Conditions

Flooded roads can conceal damaged roadways beneath the water’s surface. Potholes, cracks, and other road deformities could lurk below the surface of the water, making it difficult for drivers to adjust their speed or maneuver around them without hitting them and potentially getting in accidents. It’s important to be extra cautious when driving on flooded roads by paying attention to the terrain as much as possible and reducing your speed to minimize any potential risk.

Downed Wires

When traveling through a flood zone, drivers should also be mindful of downed wires. Exposed wires can carry electricity through the water and present a serious hazard if they come into contact with your vehicle or you. If you encounter any downed wires in a flood zone, stay away from them at all costs and alert authorities immediately so that they can handle the situation safely. 

Hydroplaning 

Driving too fast on wet surfaces increases the risk of hydroplaning, which occurs when a thin layer of water builds up between your tires and the roadway, causing your car to lose traction with the pavement and slide out of control. To avoid hydroplaning, reduce your speed significantly when driving on wet surfaces and avoid hard braking or turning sharply whenever possible, as this can cause your tires to lose even more traction with the ground. 

Additionally, ensure that your tires are properly inflated, as this helps keep them gripping onto wet pavement instead of slipping across it due to insufficient pressure in each tire’s air chamber. 

Stalling The Engine 

Driving through deep pools of standing water can also cause your engine to stall due to inadequate airflow reaching its spark plugs or fuel injectors if it becomes submerged too deeply in water. If it fails repeatedly, seek professional help immediately, as this could signify serious engine damage that may require repairs before you can drive again safely.  

Of course, these are not the only dangers associated with flooded roads, but they’re the most common. It’s never worth taking chances around water; it’s far better to be safe than sorry.

The Hoffman Law Firm!

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident due to flooded roads in St. Louis, it’s important to seek legal representation from a qualified St. Louis car accident lawyer. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Ensure the best possible outcome for your case by speaking with an experienced car accident attorney.

At The Hoffmann Law Firm, we have been protecting the rights of car accident victims for over 25 years. Give us a call 24/7 for a free case evaluation.

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Click to Call: (314) 361-4242