Missouri Car Crash on Highway 65 Injures Two: What Are Your Rights After a Rear-End Collision?

A car crash can turn your life upside down in an instant. Unfortunately, accidents happen, and sometimes they result in injuries and financial burdens that can be overwhelming. If you’ve been involved in a car crash on Highway 65 in Missouri, particularly a rear-end collision, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rear-end collisions account for approximately 29% of all accidents. This blog post will walk you through what to do after a rear-end collision, focusing on Missouri law and how it applies to your situation.

Recent Accidents on Highway 65

Highway 65 has seen its share of accidents. For instance, in December 2025, two people were injured in collisions on North U.S. 65 when a vehicle slowed to turn and was struck from behind. In another incident in September 2024, an SUV hit the back of a camper trailer on Highway 65, resulting in serious injuries. And in February 2022, six people were injured in a rear-end crash on US 65 when one vehicle rear-ended another that was stopped to yield to school children. These incidents highlight the importance of understanding your rights and knowing what to do if you find yourself in a similar situation.

Understanding Missouri’s Rear-End Collision Doctrine

Missouri law has a specific rule known as the “rear-end collision doctrine” that significantly impacts how fault is determined in these types of accidents. Generally, Missouri law presumes the rear driver was at fault in a rear-end accident. This is because drivers have a legal duty to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of them, allowing enough time to stop if the lead vehicle suddenly brakes.

Under this doctrine, the injured driver of the lead vehicle isn’t required to prove a specific negligent act of the rear-colliding driver. Instead, the injured front driver must merely show:

That they had a right to be on the portion of the roadway.
That they were struck from behind by another vehicle.
That they were not operating the vehicle negligently.

If these three elements are met, the burden shifts to the rear driver to prove they were not at fault.

Common Scenarios and Exceptions

While the rear-end collision doctrine generally favors the front driver, there are exceptions. The rear driver can challenge the presumption of fault by presenting evidence. Some common scenarios where the rear driver might not be at fault include:

Sudden Stops: If the front driver made an abrupt, unsignaled stop without justification, the rear driver might argue they were not negligent.
Mechanical Failure: If the rear driver can prove that an unexpected mechanical failure, such as brake failure, caused the collision, they may avoid liability.
Actions of a Third Party: The doctrine does not apply if the rear vehicle was pushed into the front vehicle by a third party.
Hazardous Conditions: Unexpected road hazards like debris, animals, construction zones, or poor weather conditions can cause sudden stops.

Comparative Fault in Missouri

Missouri operates under a “pure comparative fault” system. This means that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages. However, the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded \$10,000 but found 20% at fault, you will only receive \$8,000.

Common scenarios where the front driver could bear some responsibility include:

Faulty brake lights
Sudden stops without a clear reason
Unsafe lane changes
Careless merging
Brake-checking

What to Do Immediately After a Rear-End Collision

Knowing what to do immediately following a rear-end collision can significantly impact your ability to protect your rights and seek compensation for any injuries or damages. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ensure Safety: The first priority is always safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic.
Call 911: Report the accident to the police. A police report can provide crucial documentation of the incident and help with insurance claims.
Exchange Information: Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact information, insurance details, and license plate numbers.
Document the Scene: Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Also, take note of the other driver’s behavior and any statements made.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company, providing them with the necessary details.
Consult an Attorney: It’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and options.

Common Injuries in Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from mild to severe. Some of the most common injuries include:

Whiplash: A neck injury caused by the sudden back-and-forth movement of the head and neck.
Soft Tissue Damage: Injuries to ligaments, muscles, and tendons, resulting in sprains, strains, and tears.
Back Injuries: Including herniated discs, sprains, and fractures, which can lead to spinal cord injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in pain, discomfort, loss of movement, and in severe cases, loss of bodily functions.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries that can range from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairment.
Fractures and Broken Bones: Commonly affecting the arms, legs, wrists, and ribs.
Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs, which can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Shoulder Injuries: Such as rotator cuff tears and dislocations.
Mental Health Issues: Car accidents can induce stress, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures. A personal injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:

Understanding Your Rights: An attorney can help you understand your rights and legal options under Missouri law.
Assessing Damages: Lawyers can help assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may offer settlements that don’t fully cover your losses. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
Investigating the Accident: Attorneys can investigate the accident, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case.
Navigating the Legal Process: The legal process can be complex, with various deadlines and requirements. A lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring you meet all necessary deadlines and fulfill legal obligations.
Representing You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can represent you in court and present your case to a judge and jury.

When to Contact an Attorney

It’s generally a good idea to contact an attorney in the following situations:

You’ve suffered injuries in the accident.
The insurance company denies your claim or offers a low settlement.
There are disputes about who was at fault.
The accident involved serious injuries or fatalities.

Seeking Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a rear-end collision due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical Expenses: Including past and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and prescription medications.
Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to being unable to work.
Property Damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
Punitive Damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault driver’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious.

Don’t Wait, Take Action!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Missouri car crash on Highway 65, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Understanding your rights is the first step toward protecting your future and recovering the compensation you deserve. Contact an experienced Missouri car accident attorney today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.