A Troubling Trend: Rising Accident Rates Along I-44 and in Pulaski and Phelps Counties

In 2023, there were at least 440 accidents reported to the Missouri Highway Patrol in our area of the state. 122 of these accidents were on the I-44 corridor, and approximately 134 of them were in Pulaski County. At Lowe Dreesen Miller, we specialize in handling personal injury cases, and we've witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of accidents on I-44, which connects St. Robert, Fort Leonard Wood, Rolla, St. James, and beyond. The sheer volume of traffic, coupled with the inherent risks of highway driving, makes this section of I-44 a challenging stretch of road to navigate. In recent news, the Pulaski County Daily reported a three-vehicle crash on I-44 close to St. Robert that seriously injured a Dixon man. This is only one of many such reports and incidents. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need to address the factors contributing to these incidents.

Distracted Driving: A Clear and Present Danger in Missouri
Distracted driving stands out as a major culprit behind I-44 accidents. Whether it's being distracted by a phone, reaching for a snack, adjusting the radio, or taking your eyes off the road for even a moment, it can have disastrous consequences. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Distracted driving remains a leading cause of crashes in Missouri. In less than 10 years, there were more than 200,000 distracted driving-related crashes across the state, resulting in at least 801 fatalities. That is an average of over 22,000 crashes per year and at least 7 deaths per month!

DUIs: A Recipe for Tragedy
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another major risk factor on I-44. Impaired judgment, slowed reaction time, and reduced coordination are just a few of the impairments that can lead to catastrophic accidents.  In Missouri, 28% of all fatal car accidents are caused by alcohol or drug impairment. According to Bankrate.com, drunk driving kills about 28 people per day in the U.S. or one almost every 52 minutes!

Trucking Accidents: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Trucks, with their immense size and weight, pose a unique set of challenges on I-44. Truck driver fatigue, mechanical issues, and cargo overloading can all contribute to serious accidents.
Accidents involving commercial trucks and personal vehicles along highways such as Interstate 44 in Missouri such as the recent one close to Pacific often lead to complex legal situations. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, these accidents can result in significant injuries and damages. In such cases, victims need experienced legal representation to navigate insurance claims and ensure they are fairly compensated for their injuries and other financial losses. Law firms like Lowe Dreesen Miller, serving the areas of St. Robert, Fort Leonard Wood, Rolla and throughout Missouri, specialize in representing individuals in these personal injury situations, helping them to seek justice and adequate compensation for their losses. It's crucial to have legal representation that understands the intricacies of trucking regulations and personal injury law to ensure your rights are protected.

The Human Cost: Lives Lost and Changed
Behind every accident statistic lies a human story. Lives have been lost, families shattered, and futures irrevocably altered. The physical, emotional, and financial burdens of an accident can be overwhelming. At Lowe Dreesen Miller, we understand the profound impact of I-44 accidents on our community. We are committed to providing compassionate legal representation to victims and their families, pursuing justice, and advocating for safer roads.

If You've Been Harmed
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident on I-44, we urge you to seek legal counsel. Our experienced attorneys will fight to protect your rights and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.
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Together, We Can Make a Difference
We believe that by raising awareness about the dangers of I-44 and advocating for safety measures, we can make a positive impact on our community. Join us in our mission to make I-44 a safer road for everyone.

To Find Out More About How We Can Help, Click Below.

Commercial Trucking Accident Justice

Auto Accident Injury or Wrongful Death Justice

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