Navigating Winter Car Accidents in Missouri

Winter driving in Missouri can turn dangerous in an instant. Heavy snow, icy roads, and reduced visibility create conditions that lead to hundreds of accidents each season. As Missouri personal injury lawyers, we routinely help clients who are injured in weather-related crashes and need clarity on their rights. Here’s what you should know if you’re involved in a winter accident—especially during one of Missouri’s surprise early-season storms.

Missouri’s Early Winter Storm: A Real-Life Example

Imagine waking up on December 1st to unexpected snow blanketing Kansas City and the surrounding metro. Highways turned into parking lots, and accidents piled up across I-29, I-35, and I-70. According to highway officials, the storm resulted in:

• 1,000+ calls for assistance

• Nearly 600 stranded motorists

• Almost 300 reported crashes

• Record snowfalls and multiple interstate closures

This scenario shows how quickly winter weather can impact both safety and legal responsibilities on Missouri roads.

Who Is at Fault in a Missouri Winter Accident?

Many drivers assume that snow or ice excuses them from liability. It doesn’t.
Under Missouri law, drivers must always exercise the highest degree of care—and that standard increases during bad weather.

After a winter crash, investigators and insurance companies look closely at factors such as:

• Driving speed relative to weather conditions

• Following distance

• Proper use of headlights

• Roadway visibility

• Vehicle maintenance (tires, brakes, windshield wipers)

In short: Weather is a factor, but negligence still determines fault.

What To Do After a Winter Car Accident in Missouri

If you’re involved in a crash during snow or ice conditions, taking the right steps can protect your health and your claim:

1. Check for injuries and call 911. Safety is the top priority.

2. Move vehicles if possible to prevent secondary collisions.

3. Document everything—road conditions, traffic, skid marks, and vehicle damage.

4. Exchange information with all drivers and witnesses.

5. Contact a Missouri personal injury lawyer if injuries, multi-vehicle collisions, or disputed fault are involved.

Understanding Claims and Liability in Winter Weather

Even when roads are poorly maintained, claims typically begin with the at-fault driver—not the state. Missouri’s sovereign immunity laws make lawsuits against MoDOT extremely difficult.

However, you may have a strong case against:

• A negligent driver

• A commercial vehicle operator

• An insurance company wrongfully denying or undervaluing your claim

A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate these complexities and maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How to Prepare for Missouri Winter Driving

While no one can prevent every accident, preparation drastically reduces risk:

• Keep an emergency winter kit in your vehicle

• Maintain tire tread and replace worn tires

• Keep at least half a tank of gas

• Slow down and increase following distance

• Check weather and road reports before traveling

Staying proactive helps protect your family and reduces the likelihood of being involved in a crash.

Injured in a Missouri Winter Accident? We’re Here to Help.

Winter weather may be unpredictable, but your legal rights shouldn’t be. If you’ve been injured in a snow- or ice-related accident, the Missouri personal injury lawyers at Northland Injury Law can guide you through the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

📞 Call today for a free consultation.