Failure to Yield Car Accident in St. Louis

Failure to yield is a violation in most states, and it occurs when a driver fails to yield the road appropriately, therefore causing a collision. It can take several different shapes:

• Not yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks and intersections with stop signs; according to Missouri law, cars must yield to pedestrians in the same half of a crosswalk;

• Not yielding to vehicles turning left at an intersection;

• Not yielding when entering the highway, as cars already on it have the right of way.

Under Missouri laws, these are reckless actions that can sometimes result in serious consequences for those involved. In St. Louis, failing to yield warrants an automatic fine of $75, unless the vehicle fails to yield to a pedestrian after stopping at a stop sign, in which case the penalty is $100.

However, if the circumstances of the incident are more severe, and there is property damage or even physical injuries involved, then the punishments are worsened:

• These violations are considered a class C misdemeanor;

• Additionally, in case of physical injuries, the perpetrator can also have to pay a fine up to $1,000, depending on the severity of the injury;

• In some cases, the state can ask for the suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.

What Steps Should You Take?

If you have been the victim of a car accident where the other driver failed to yield, you have to prove negligence on their part. Sometimes, the situation can seem the other way around, if the other vehicle crosses your path, then technically you crashed into their car. However, you’ll have to prove the entire incident was caused by their reckless action.

With the help of a St. Louis car accident attorney, you can gather the evidence that will show you weren’t at fault, and therefore have a right to compensation. This evidence can come in various different forms, from eye-witness testimonies to surveillance cameras, and any other tangible proof that can showcase the at-fault driver’s negligence.

Can You Do It without a Lawyer?

These cases are often challenging to prove. Even if there is a lot of evidence showing the other driver indeed failed to yield, and the other driver even admits to it, there is also the matter of how much money you should ask for your injuries or damages.

Compensation is usually given out by the insurance company of the at-fault driver. Even if everyone involved acknowledges the traffic violation, the insurance provider will most likely try to offer as little compensation money as they can. An experienced attorney will know how much you’re entitled to, and negotiate on your behalf for a better settlement.

Don’t hesitate to hire an experienced St. Louis auto accident lawyer to represent you. These cases can get very complicated, and you’ll want someone with the right experience by your side. Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 for a FREE case evaluation.