Recent Posts in Car Accidents Category

Have you been in a motor vehicle accident that involved negligent driving on the part of someone else while in the greater St. Louis area?

Recent automobile, tractor trailer and motorcycle accidents have brought highway work zones to the forefront of attention regarding safety.  According to safety engineer for the Missouri Department of Transportation, it takes a split second for disaster to occur while in or approaching a highway work zone.  Three recent crashes in work zones have made experts examine safety practices in road work zones.  Last Thursday evening a prisoner in a Wyandotte county sheriff's car was killed when the car was rear-ended as it slowed for construction on I-70.  This accident occurred just a week after a two teen fatality crash on I-44 that involved two school buses and serious injured several other teens.  On Sunday evening four people were seriously injured on I-35 when their car was hit from behind while it was stopped for work-zone congestion.  Some facts have been released about recent Missouri crash causes in work zones:

                Driver inattention is a major problem.

                Majority of accidents occur in the regular flow of traffic, not during rush hour

                Majority of crashes occur when it is drive.

    Texting, fidgeting with one's IPod,  or letting one's mind wonder can cause a second distraction that could be fatal.  The National Transportation Safety Board is examining work zone compliance and speed limits.  However, if drivers don't pay attention then all of the bells and whistles will not be useful.   Accidents in work zones are up in the state of Missouri and experts attribute some of that increase due to the amount of roadwork that is going on in Missouri.   Missouri has made some changes in roadwork safety to include higher fines for hitting a work zone crew member,  workers wearing fluorescent green vests to enhance visibility, and rumble strips on the highway to warn motorists of approaching highway work zones. Accidents in work zones are often fatal or leave victims with catastrophic injuries.

Have you been in a motor vehicle accident that involved negligent driving on the part of someone else while in the greater St. Louis area?

Zane Cagle at the Cagle Law Firm can assist you to determine if you have a claim or lawsuit.  Using a St. Louis attorney such as Zane Cagle allows you the resources to pursue damages and recover medical bills that are overwhelming after an injury.  At the Cagle Law Firm, an experienced St. Louis Accident Attorney can review your claim and help you file a lawsuit against the person responsible for your accident or injury or to help you to determine if you have a wrongful death claim or a claim for personal injury damages contact the Cagle Law firm today.
    To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

A man was killed in a motorcycle accident when he crashed into a car on Hampton Avenue at Milentz Avenue in St. Louis on Sunday.  He was traveling northbound on Hampton when the driver of a car hit another vehicle while attempting to pass which led to the collision with the motorcycle. Summer months see an increase in motorcyclist on the highways and side streets. There are many reasons motorcycles collide with other vehicles. The number one reason for motorcycle accidents is motorist not being aware of motorcyclist and not seeing them.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in St. Louis?

If you have suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident in or around St. Louis, Missouri, it's in your best interest to consult an attorney at the Cagle Law Firm as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and options. Under Missouri personal injury law, motorcycle accident victims are legally entitled to compensation if the accident was caused by the negligent, reckless, or careless actions of another. This might include negligence on the part of another motorist on the road, or on the part of a company or corporation. For example, if a defect with the motorcycle causes an accident to occur, such as brake failure, the company that manufactured the motorcycle can be held liable for damages. At the Cagle Law Firm, we will thoroughly analyze the circumstances leading up to you or your loved one's accident to determine who is at fault for the accident and thus liable for injuries. From there, we will aggressively pursue a verdict or settlement for maximum compensation. Our goal is to ensure you are justly compensated for your pain and suffering, emotional trauma, medical bills, lost wages, and any other hardship incurred due to the accident.

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a motorcycle accident or wrongful death claim.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the Missouri crash in Interstate 44 that involved twoschool buses, a pickup truck and a tractor trailer.  The crash resulted in the deaths of two teenagers and injuries to fifty-four other students.  Two girls remain hospitalized; however, their names have not been released. The accident occurred when a semi slowed down for road construction and a pickup truck driven by a 19 year old man of Sullivan crashed into the back of it.  Two school buses carrying high school band students then slammed into that wreck.  A 15 year old girl of St. James, was killed when she was in the back seat of the first bus.  Charges will probably not be filed against any drivers until the final patrol reported is completed which may take up to six weeks.

Investigators are hoping to discover some information that will make school bus travel and road construction zones more safe.  Summer is a busy time for road construction and wrecks are common in work zones. The Missouri Department of Transportation is doing work on 250 bridges and improving 5,600 miles of roadway.  Accidents continue to happen in spite of their safety education efforts, signage, stricter penalties and fines for construction area violations.

Have you been in a motor vehicle accident that involved negligent driving on the part of someone else while in the greater St. Louis area?

Amtrak train traveling from Lee's Summit to St. Louis was involved in two train-auto collisions with pick-up trucks on Thursday. At 8 a.m., a 44 year old man drove around a crossing bar that had just been lowered and was struck. The truck was sheared in half and the man was ejected about 40 feet.  The driver was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries and remains in intensive care. It was later determined that the driver was driving a truck that had been stolen earlier from a sanitation business. Then, two hours later, the Amtrak train struck a maintenance worker's pick-up as it was sitting too close to the tracks.  The maintenance worker was spraying weeds from the inside of the truck and did not have time to move.  The second collision occurred at a section of the track that did not include warning signs. None of the passengers on the Amtrak train were injured in either collision.

Have you been injured in a railroad related accident ?

While both collisions were avoidable, both could be classified as different type's personal injury claims. In the first accident, the driver of the truck was a non railroad employee where as in the second accident; the maintenance worker may have been a railroad employee.  If the second driver was a railroad employee then he would fall under The Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) that allows railroad employees who are injured on the job to file a lawsuit to recover damages from his/her employer when negligence occurs on the part of the employer or another employee.  This act is not to be confused with Workers' Compensation.  Under conditions of FELA, the injured employee may recover punitive damages that they would not be entitled to under Workers' Compensation; however, FELA is a complicated statute. Therefore, it is highly recommended that an injured employee or family of a killed employee to consult a FELA attorney in order to protect the victim's rights. 
  
    At the Cagle Law Firm, an experienced St. Louis Accident Attorney can review your claim and help you file a lawsuit against the person responsible for your accident or injury or to help you to determine if you have a wrongful death claim or a claim for personal injury damages contact the Cagle Law firm today.
    To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

Motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of children ages 1-14.  While some crashes simply cannot be survived, over 57% of deaths for children 0-15 occur because the child was not restrained and many more occur due to the child being improperly restrained.  Nationally, the misuse rate of child safety seats is over 80% and as high as 95% in some areas.  Infant seats have been shown to reduce a child's fatal injury by 71% and toddler seats by 54%.

Due to a child's inexperience and lack of understanding toward many dangers, they are the most susceptible to death or injuries in a motor vehicle. Because of the increases in child fatalities in motor crashes, researchers have studied the causes of child injury during motor crashes and steps to help prevent them.

Harsh Grewal, MD, a pediatric surgeon from Temple University School of Medicine and Hospital in collaboration with his colleagues reviewed 10 years worth of medical literature on children and motor vehicle accidents.

Their study revealed that children involved in car accidents when they were inappropriately seat belted were at a higher risk for "seat belt syndrome", a complex of injuries to the spine and abdomen. Pediatric health care professionals should be wary when receiving children that exhibit bruising as it may indicate much more serious injuries such as spinal cord injury, abdominal and or spine tenderness and neurological deficits.  It was found that boys are more susceptible to injury than girls and that eh incidence increases with age.

There are some basic rules for child safety in motor vehicles from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Kids 12 and under should always ride in the back seat. This cuts the risk of death by 36%
• Kids should be in a car seat or booster until they can be seated properly in a seatbelt.  For most children, this is around 8 years of age or 4'9" tall, but proper seatbelt fit is the most important factor.
• Never place a rear-facing car seat in the front seat when there is an active frontal airbag.
• Keep your baby rear-facing as long as possible. That can mean up to 30, 33 or 35 pounds in most current convertible seats unless they outgrow it by height first.
• All current car seats should pass government safety standards. Select the one that best fits your child, your vehicle and your budget. Some models do have different features; select one that has the features that will allow you to use it correctly on EVERY trip.
• Always read the owner's manuals for your vehicle and car seat thoroughly.  They often contain specific information about car seat installation that may not be obvious. Some models may vary from what you would expect.
• Make sure the harness fits snugly on your child, the car seat fits snugly in your vehicle, and that your vehicle seatbelts are locked properly.
• Why you buy a car seat, make sure you have a good return policy in case it doesn't fit or in case you find that you do not like it. Have your seat inspected by a certified technician for free at a checkup event or fitting station.
• Please be wary of used car seats, especially those over 6 years of age, those with an unknown history that may have been in a crash, those that show any form of cracks or damage, and those with missing labels, model numbers, manufacturing date, instructions or parts.
• Please give driving your complete, unimpaired attention and wear your own seatbelt all the time. These two simple steps are among these easiest ways you can protect yourself and your passengers from injury or death.

Obviously some restraint is better than none at all. In a collision, an unrestrained child continues at the speed of the automobile until they come into contact with some part of the interior.  On occasion, a car seat will be defective in its construction and may cause a child to sustain catastrophic injuries or even death. Contacting a product liability attorney as soon as possible after such an accident is crucial in order for a thorough investigation to occur.  Contact The Cagle Law Firm if you have been in an accident with a small child that was restrained and any passenger that sustained injuries. 

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced  and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a personal injury,defective product claim or wrongful death claim.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

At least six children and one adult were injured in two car auto accident in North St. Louis. The driver of a van said she could not see the Mercedes as a bush in the median was obstructing her view.  The driver of the van was transported to the hospital as well as the six children who were passengers in the van.  The van struck a three-foot brick was that was attached to an apartment building.  Two of the children were transported to the hospital urgently with one possibly having critical injuries.  The occupants of the Mercedes refused treatment.

Spring and summer can sometimes be hazardous when foliage is in the peak of growing season.  Drivers must use extra caution at intersections when gaining a clear view ever mindful of landscape growth, motorcycles and bicycles.

Have you or a loved one been the victim of a moving vehicle accident?  

    If you or a loved one has been injured in an moving vehicle accident such as a car, bicycle, motorcyle or Jet Ski accident;  Zane Cagle at the Cagle Law Firm can assist you to determine if you have a claim or lawsuit.  Using a St. Louis attorney such as Zane Cagle allows you the resources to pursue damages and recover medical bills that are overwhelming after an injury.  At the Cagle Law Firm, an experienced St. Louis Accident Attorney can review your claim and help you file a lawsuit against the person responsible for your accident or injury or to help you to determine if you have a wrongful death claim or a claim for personal injury damages contact the Cagle Law firm today.
    To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

An 18 year old teen died from injuries she sustained after a one vehicle auto accident.  The teen was a passenger in a truck driven by a 19 year old teen, both from Union, Missouri.  The 18 year old teen was thrown from the truck after it left the roadway.  The driver overcorrected, returned the truck to the road, and went off the road on the other side and overcorrected again, thus the vehicle overturned.

The teen was taken by helicopter to St. John's Mercy Medical Center but died later that afternoon. Police have not indicated if seat belts were being worn at the time of the accident. While seat belts are a great determinant between serious injuries and death in many cases, wearing them does not insure walking away from a crash with just minor injuries.  Investigators will need to conclude if seat belts were worn and if not, then could the injuries have been less catastrophic is worn

Have you or a loved one been the victim of an automobile accident?
 Catastrophic injuries can be a result of auto accidents as well as wrongful deaths.  Calling an attorney is as soon as possible is important in order to preserve many aspects of the investigation. If you or a loved one were hurt in an auto accident or due to the negligent or reckless driving of another, you may have a legal claim for compensation.

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced  and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced  and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

A 21 year old woman crashed into a semi truck and was ejected from her car when she was then struck by a second tractor trailer on Sunday afternoon.  Officials pronounced the woman dead at the scene.  A witness reported that they had seen the woman texting just before the crash.  She lost control of her 2000 Oldsmobile Intrigue and left the highway, striking a guardrail. She then spun back into the highway and struck a tractor trailer. After crashing into the first tractor trailer, she was thrown from her car and then struck by the second tractor trailer. The crash remains under investigation and due to the damage to the car, it cannot be determined if she was wearing a seatbelt. However, her phone has been recovered for investigation as to time and use to determine if "texting" was a contributing factor in the horrific accident. No  reports were made in regard to the injuries the drivers of the tractor trailers may have sustained.

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

The Missouri Highway Patrol responded in nine counties to accidents that killed 10 people over the weekend.  Car accidents, motorcycle accident,bicycle accident, and a pedestrian hit and run were among the tragic events.  Twelve people died over the July 4^th weekend and that number included local police agencies in addition to the Missouri Highway Patrol.  Therefore, this past weekend was more deadly than the last holiday weekend as there were 10 fatalities that the Missouri Highway Patrol worked alone. This number does not account for any injuries or fatalities reported by any local agencies.

First Crash: Saline County: A 27 year old man was struck and killed while walking along I-70 by a hit and run driver.

Second Crash: Cole County: Two Jefferson City men were killed in a head on car crash. Both men died at the scene. The 36 year old driver crossed the center line and crashed into the 30 year old driver. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.

Third Crash: Franklin County where a 32 year-old St. Louis man died when the car he was driving veered off the road and overturned.

Fourth Crash: Greene County: An 87 year-old man died when he drove into the path of another car on US  Hwy 160

Fifth Crash:  Jasper County:  A 46 year-old man was riding a bicycle Saturday morning when he was struck from behind by a pick-up.  According to police, the driver of the pick-up never saw the bicyclist.

Six Crash: Clay County: A 44 year old-man and his passenger where thrown from their vehicle when it overturned after the driver proceeded to pass illegally.  The passenger sustained serious injuries.

Seventh Crash: Macon County:  A 31 year old man was thrown from his car after crossing the centerline, running off the road, striking a ditch, mailbox and cable box.

Eighth Crash: Buchanan County: A 25 year old man was killed on his dirt bike when he was hit by a southbound Jeep. He was not wearing a helmet according to patrol while operating his motorcyle.

Ninth Crash:  Newton County: A five year old girl died in a two-car crash on US 60, east of Neosho.  Eight additional people were injured, four sustained serious injuries.  According to patrol, a car ran a stop sign and pulled into the path of the car the five year old was a passenger.  Both cars went down an embankment. The child died at the scene and the driver other car is being investigated for blood alcohol.

Have you or a loved one been the victim of a moving vehicle accident?  

    If you or a loved one has been injured in an moving vehicle accident such as a car, bicycle, motorcyle or Jet Ski accident;  Zane Cagle at the Cagle Law Firm can assist you to determine if you have a claim or lawsuit.  Using a St. Louis attorney such as Zane Cagle allows you the resources to pursue damages and recover medical bills that are overwhelming after an injury.  At the Cagle Law Firm, an experienced St. Louis Accident Attorney can review your claim and help you file a lawsuit against the person responsible for your accident or injury or to help you to determine if you have a wrongful death claim or a claim for personal injury damages contact the Cagle Law firm today.
    To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

A pedestrian has died after being struck by a car last Thursday.  The St. Louis woman was apparently running from a man chasing her on his bike when she was struck by the car.  She became stuck in the windshield and the car crashed into a restaurant drive-thru. She originally lost part of her leg and suffered multiple serious injuries which resulted in her death.   One of the passengers in the car was covered in broken glass and hospitalized.  Police are investigating the identity of the man chasing the pedestrian on the bicycle.  The pedestrian-auto accident occurred around 3 a.m. on Wednesday evening.  The St. Louis woman died on Thursday.

Have you been the victim of a pedestrian-auto accident?  Or have you suffered serious injuries due to the negligence of someone else?  Cars hit pedestrian in a number of ways and in metropolitan areas, the chances of being hit by a moving vehicle increase.  If you have been hit by a car, you may have a claim for personal injury.  As well, if you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian-vehicle crash then you may have a wrongful death claim.  Calling an aggressive personal injury attorney in the first days is essential for proper investigation of facts to occur.  Call Zane Cagle, at The Cagle Law Firm to discuss your options before hospital bills and loss of work factors become an enormous issue in your life.  The attorneys at The Cagle Law Firm will assist you in determining if you have a personal injury or wrongful death case. They are premiere St. Louis Personal Injury Attorneys that can assist you through these difficult times.

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

A truck driver has been charged with homicide by vehicle in a deadly five car crash on Route 209 in Monroe County, Pennsylvania, that has killed one and left several others with catastrophic injuries. Last Thursday evening four vehicles were stopped at a red light facing northbound when the tractor-trailer traveling northbound in the right lane failed to stop and crashed into the back of a Mini Cooper. The Mini Cooper then struck a Chevrolet Corvette and then crossed the intersection and crashed into a guard rail.  The Corvette was pushed into the left lane and collided with a Chrysler 300. After striking the Mini Cooper the tractor trailer then continued straight and hit a Hyundai Santa Fe. The Hyundai was shoved into the intersection and the tractor trailer veered off the road and crashed into a traffic control pole and caught fire. The traffic control pole then fell on the Hyundai. The driver of the Hyundai and her passenger were air lifted to an area hospital.

The truck driver was arraigned on charges of homicide by vehicle, following too close, and careless driving.
When a truck driver is negligent, the effects are often deadly. Catastrophic injuries can be a result of truck accidents as well as wrongful deaths.  If you or a loved one were hurt in a semi truck accident due to the negligent or reckless driving, you may have a legal claim for compensation.

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced  truck accident attorney and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim.
personal injury To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced  truck accident attorney and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim.
personal injury To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

A Washington man is dead after he was struck from behind by a Camry as he was stopped on his motorcycle at a red light in St. Peters. The motorcyclist was sitting eastbound on Highway 94 at Kisker Road when an eastbound Toyota Camry struck him just after the light changed to green. The Washington man was thrown from his 2010 Triumph. The motorcyclist suffered catastrophic injures that led to his death. The police have not determined why the Toyota Camry re-ended the motorcyclist.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in St. Louis?

If you have suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident in or around St. Louis, Missouri, it's in your best interest to consult an attorney at the Cagle Law Firm as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and options. Under Missouri personal injury law, motorcycle accident victims are legally entitled to compensation if the accident was caused by the negligent, reckless, or careless actions of another. This might include negligence on the part of another motorist on the road, or on the part of a company or corporation. For example, if a defect with the motorcycle causes an accident to occur, such as brake failure, the company that manufactured the motorcycle can be held liable for damages. At the Cagle Law Firm, we will thoroughly analyze the circumstances leading up to you or your loved one's accident to determine who is at fault for the accident and thus liable for injuries. From there, we will aggressively pursue a verdict or settlement for maximum compensation. Our goal is to ensure you are justly compensated for your pain and suffering, emotional trauma, medical bills, lost wages, and any other hardship incurred due to the accident.

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a motorcycle accident or wrongful death claim.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

    A Florida man was killed last Thursday night after a violent motorcycle accident. The victim was riding in group of motorcycles when he lost control and hit a light pole. His body was thrown from the motorcycle over an embankment and landed almost 350 feet in a yard below. The motorcycle continued down the highway for another 350-400 feet. It was a particularly gruesome accident as the victim's legs were missing after the impact.  Investigators state that the victim certainly died upon impact; however, they are still investigating the cause of the motorcycle accident and will be interviewing witnesses from the scene. Authorities spent the rest of the night and Friday morning trying to recover everything including evidence that will the of assistance in the investigation.  
    As summer progresses many motorcyclists will take to the highways and side streets and all motorists must constantly be aware of motorcyclist.   As well, motorcyclist must be constantly aware of their surroundings in order to avoid accidents with automobiles and inanimate objects.  Catastrophic injuries can be sustained in a motorcycle accident and sometimes resulting in death.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in St. Louis?

If you have suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident in or around St. Louis, Missouri, it's in your best interest to consult an attorney at the Cagle Law Firm as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and options. Under Missouri personal injury law, motorcycle accident victims are legally entitled to compensation if the accident was caused by the negligent, reckless, or careless actions of another. This might include negligence on the part of another motorist on the road, or on the part of a company or corporation. For example, if a defect with the motorcycle causes an accident to occur, such as brake failure, the company that manufactured the motorcycle can be held liable for damages. At the Cagle Law Firm, we will thoroughly analyze the circumstances leading up to you or your loved one's accident to determine who is at fault for the accident and thus liable for injuries. From there, we will aggressively pursue a verdict or settlement for maximum compensation. Our goal is to ensure you are justly compensated for your pain and suffering, emotional trauma, medical bills, lost wages, and any other hardship incurred due to the accident.

Contact the Cagle Law today to speak with an experienced and dedicated St. Louis personal injury lawyer about filing a motorcycle accident or wrongful death claim.
To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621

A  St. Peters man was killed in an auto accident on Interstate 70 when the Dodge Durango he was driving was struck by the wheel of a tractor trailer.  Equipment failure caused the truck to lose two wheels from the rear axle. The wheel struck the front windshield of the victim's  Durango. After the collision, the Durango then traveled to the right and struck the side of a Nissan Altima in oncoming traffic on I-70. The driver of the Nissan was transported via ambulance to a hospital with minor injuries, however, the St. Peters man was pronounced dead at the site.  While this is the first fatality of May, it is the 44^th  highway fatality of the year in the St. Louis area.

No charges have been filed as of yet, however, the family of the victim may have a wrongful death claim. Were you injured or have you lost a loved one because of a defective product or an auto accident?  If so, you may have grounds to a file legal claim for compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress. Contacting an attorney early after the accident is crucial in many instances for thorough investigation. At the Cagle Law Firm,  an experienced St. Louis Auto Accident Attorney can review your claim and help you file a lawsuit against the person responsible for your accident or injury or to help you to determine if you have a wrongful death claim.

To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621. 

A woman sustained serious injuries after colliding with a tractor-trailer in a four-car crash in Illinois last week. The woman was traveling northbound in the southbound lane of I-255 when she crashed into a tractor-trailer. After colliding with the tractor-trailer, she was struck by a van and a SUV that were traveling southbound on I-255. The woman was charged with drunk-driving, failure to reduce speed, and improper lane usage. The woman and the driver of the van were transported to the hospital. 

If you were injured in an auto accident because of the negligent or reckless driving of someone else, you may have grounds to file legal claim for compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, property damage, emotional distress, and more. At the Cagle Law Firm, an experienced St. Louis Auto Accident Attorney can review your claim and help you file a lawsuit against the person responsible for your accident or injury. 

To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621. 

Trapped yesterday afternoon in cars were two women after a head-on crash in Arnold, Missouri. The auto crash occurred at Interstate 55 and Highway 141 after an elderly woman entered traffic into the southbound lanes from a northbound lane. Both drivers were injured and had to be rescued from the cars and sent to local area hospitals. The auto injury victims were taken to area hospitals via helicopter.  

Need the Help of an Experienced Auto Accident Lawyer?

If you were injured in an auto accident because of the negligent or reckless driving of someone else, you may have grounds to file legal claim for compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, property damage, emotional distress, and more. At the Cagle Law Firm, an experienced St. Louis Auto Accident Attorney can review your claim and help you file a lawsuit against the person responsible for your accident or injury. 

To schedule a consultation to discuss your claim, please contact the firm today at (800) 716-2621. 

A serious crash in northwest surburban Elgin outside of Chicago sent two women to the hospital in critical care on Monday night.

Initial police reports stated that one of the drivers was heading northbound on Randall Road when she crossed the center line, striking a Cadillac Eldorado.

The crash sent the Cadillac spinning where it was struck by a third vehicle.

All three drivers were transported to St. Joseph Hospital, where two of them were later flown to a hospital in Downers Grove in critical condition.

So far, no charges have been filed as the accident remains under investigation, but the driver who crossed the center line could be held liable for the other driver's injuries.

If you were injured in a car accident, and feel you are entitled to compensation for your injuries, do not hesitate to contact and experienced Car Accident Attorney.  At Page Cagle in St. Louis, MO, our skilled team of personal injury attorneys are available 24/7 for a free consultation.  Whether you live in Illinois or Missouri, we have the resources and know-how to litigate your case.  Call us today.

Last month, a Chicago Police officer was allegedly intoxicated when he struck a 13-year-old boy on a bicycle with his SUV in the early morning hours.  Instead of claiming responsibility for the incident, however, the officer fled the scene of the accident. 

Now, the family of the young boy has filed a petition with the court to determine liability for a wrongful death lawsuit.

According to police reports, the accident occurred on May 22.  The officer was taken into custody shortly after and charged with, "aggravated driving under the influence, reckless homicide and leaving the scene of the accident with death or injury."  He was also cited for transportation of alcohol and for driving in the wrong direction on a one-way street.

When other officers arrested him, they reported smelling alcohol on his breath but indicated he did not seem impaired after performing a field sobriety test.  According to the Cook County state's attorney, however, nearly four hours passed before he was given a breathalyzer test.

Driving under the influence can have serious and deadly consequences.  If you were injured due to a drunk, reckless or negligent driver, call our offices at Page Cagle in St. Louis today and speak with a Drunk Driver Accident Attorney.  We have the skills necessary to aggressively litigate your case, and can provide you with the help you need.  Contact us today.

The plaintiffs filed a wrongful death lawsuit this week against a teenager and his parents over the death of their daughter in a November 2008 crash in which the teen was driving.

The wrongful death lawsuit alleges the defendant drove recklessly, and his parents were negligent in allowing their son to borrow their vehicle, despite knowing he was an unsafe driver.

At the time of the crash, the defendant was only 16 years old and therefore had a limited driver's license, which prohibited him from having any passengers in his car other than an adult relative.  Furthermore, he had just received a speeding ticket for driving 48 mph in a 25 mph zone only months before. Despite all of this, the suit alleges that the teen's parents allowed him to borrow their pickup truck knowing that he was unfit to safety operate the vehicle.

Police reports indicate the defendant was under the influence of alcohol and was driving 62 mph in a 25 mph zone when he lost control of the truck causing it to roll.  Of the three people in the car, the plaintiffs' daughter was killed and one other teen was injured. 

The defendant pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in February and sentenced to 6 months in youth detention.  He also lost his license until age 21 and will have to complete 500 hours of community service educating youth on the danger of speeding.

The plaintiffs' attorney stated that due to the defendant's criminal conviction in the case, the court has all the evidence necessary to impose civil liability as well.  The suit seeks unspecified damages that include punitive damages on behalf of the victim and her parents.

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of death among teens, largely due to reckless or negligent behavior on behalf of the driver.  If you have lost a loved one or were injured in a car accident because of another person's actions, you may be entitled to legal compensation.  Contact a knowledgeable Car Accident Attorney today at Page Cagle in St. Louis for your free consultation.

Although Memorial Day is supposed to be a relaxing holiday weekend, it is also infamously known for fatal car accidents.  The Associated Press released an article this week describing only a few of the fatal crashes that occurred all over the country this weekend. 

One of those tragic crashes occurred in Southern Illinois just after midnight near Keyesport, IL, where a two-vehicle crash took the lives of four people and sent five more to the hospital.  According to the coroner, three of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene after being ejected from their vehicles, and one died later at a St. Louis hospital.

The accident occurred at the intersection of Emerald Road and Keyesport Road when a Pontiac Grand Am failed to stop at the stop sign. As a result, it collided with a Cadillac Escalade as it entered the intersection.  The crash caused the SUV to hit a drainage ditch and overturn. 

The Escalade had seven passengers total, three of which were killed.  Every passenger except one was only 21 years old.  The passenger in the Grand Am was also pronounced dead at the scene.

So far no charges have been filed, but police reports did confirm that the driver of the Grand Am was largely at fault for failing to stop at the intersection.  Witnesses, however, put at least some of the group in the SUV at Carlyle Lake earlier that day. 

Accidents such as these remind everyone to always be safe on roadways, especially during busy holiday weekends.  If you or someone you know who was injured because of careless, negligent or reckless driving, do not hesitate to seek legal advice.  At Page Cagle in St. Louis, we can help you sort out the facts in your case and get you the compensation you deserve.  Call a Car Accident Attorney today for a free consultation.

Among the constant string of reported car accidents in the news lately concerning drivers not paying attention due to cell phones or car radios, comes another case in Illinois of driver distraction taking the life of a motorist.

A Lake Zurich resident was killed while stopped at a yellow light on her motorcycle when the woman behind her failed to stop because she was painting her nails.  The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet, but unfortunately it was not enough to protect her from the force of the crash after flying several hundred feet.  The woman that hit her stopped to help, and she later admitted to police that she did not see her stop since he was looking down at her nails.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 25% of all traffic accidents are caused by these types of distractions when drivers attempt to multi-talk.  From reading and putting on makeup to text messaging and watching movies, highway patrolman have seen it all. 

According to some studies, the most dangerous activity to do while driving is operating the CD player, with dialing and personal grooming coming in close behind. 

The important lesson for motorists is simply this: avoid doing anything that takes your eyes or mind off the road, or you may end up in Hunt's shoes.  Especially as the warm weather arrives, being conscious of the various road hazzards such as bicycles, motorcycles, and playing children is important to maintaining traffic safety.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic accident due to driver negligence due to distracted or reckless driving, call the experienced Auto Accident Attorneys at Page Cagle in St. Louis today for a free consultation.

Elizabeth Jackson filed suit this week, alleging that a multi-car accident caused by David Jack and Brian DeAngelis left her with severe injuries that affect her daily life.

In November 2008, DeAngelis, who was working for KD Express at the time, rear-ended Jack while driving an International Ha Trucktractor in the northbound lanes of I-57.  Jack was driving a Chevy Impala, and crossed the median into the southbound lanes where he then crashed into Jackson's Dodge Charger.  Jack died as a result of his injuries.

In her three-count suit, Jackson alleges that DeAngelis was negligent in failing to reduce his speed and by striking Jack's car.  She also claims that Jack was negligent by traveling below the posted minimum speed limit.

Jackson says she suffered permanent pain, mental anguish, disability and disfigurement, as well as an inability to attend to her usual duties.  She also seeks compensation for medical expenses and lost wages.

If you have been involved in an auto accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to a legal claim to collect compensation for injuries, medical expenses, lost wages and more.  Call one of our personal injury attorneys for a free consultation.  At Page Cagle, we fight aggressively to ensure that our clients get the attention and compensation they deserve.  Contact us today to begin building your case.

After years of litigation, the Pippenger family finally came to a settlement with Laidlaw, Inc., now First Student.

In December 2005, Brandon Pippenger, age 13, crossed the street to try and catch the morning bus to school.  Running late, he ran alongside it, waving his hand to get the driver's attention.  According to company regulation, buses are supposed to stop no less than 100 feet from a corner.  That morning, not only did the driver not check his mirrors but he also turned the corner without stopping.  Not seeing Brandon, the bus ran him over as it turned.

Brandon's mother Patty watched the whole thing in horror.  To this day, all she wanted was for Laidlaw to admit their responsibility for what happened.

The case would have ended last March, but the court ordered that the two parties settle out of court.  Confronted with all the facts pointing toward the driver's fault in the tragedy, Laidlaw finally agreed to settle with the family for $1.2 million.

"From the start, we wanted people to know that Brandon did not cause his own death.  He did not slip and fall under the bus," says Pippenger of Laidlaw's defense in the case.  With the settlement, it was made clear that the driver's error was the real cause for Brandon's death. 

If you lost a loved one due to the negligence of another, you may have a wrongful death claim.  Call our experienced Wrongful Death attorneys today to discuss your options in a free consultation.  Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may have a limited amount of time to file, so do not hesitate to contact legal representation.

Text messaging has become the new topic of debate in cell phone usage while driving as the occurrence of texting-related accidents is on the rise. 

In what many have called a social epidemic, text-messaging among young teen drivers in particular has many officials quick to draw up new legislation banning the practice.  U.S. News and World Report recently published an article about this very topic, stating that about 20% of drivers text while driving, a statistic that jumps to 66% when 18-24-year-olds are isolated. 

Although no one knows the percentage of accidents caused by texting, more and more accidents today attribute the cause of the crash to an inattentive driver who was either texting, checking voicemail or dialing. 

Cell-related crashes have become so prevalent that legislators in five states have banned hand-held cell phone usage while behind the wheel.  Washington and New Jersey expressly prohibit driving while texting (DWT).  So far, 16 states are considering similar legislation that will either outlaw or restrict the practice, and 24 states are deciding on whether to ban talking on cell phones as well.

Some of the reasons mentioned in the article for why texting has become popular among all age groups is the increased sophistication of phones that cater to texting abilities through the use of touch-screens or full keyboards.  The danger obviously is that too many drivers are looking down at their phones instead of the road.

If you have been injured in an auto accident due to driver carelessness or reckless driving, call the Car Accident Attorneys at Page Cagle today for a free consultation.  We handle cases in both Illinois and Missouri.

Michael J. Marler filed suit last week in St. Clair County against Brian Kessler over a car accident that Marler claims left permanent scars on his face as well as loss of income.

The accident occurred in April 2007 when Kessler sideswiped Marler's vehicle as he was trying to turn left out of his driveway onto Old Freeburg Road.  As a result, Marler struck a tree, sustaining property damage, bruising and injuries to his orthopedic, neurologic, and muscluar systems.

Marler alleges that Kessler was negligent for failing to keep his car under control and to avoid a collision, and by failing to yield right of way. He seeks compensation for lost income, medical expenses, and punitive damages.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the attorneys at the premier personal injury law firm Page Cagle are available 24/7 to answer any of your questions.  If the driver of the other vehicle was negligent or reckless, you may be entitled to compensation, but it is important to speak with one of our skilled Car Accident Attorneys immediately to begin building your case.

Michael Aaron filed a lawsuit last week in St. Clair County in Illinois against Donna Donaby for injuries he incurred after a multi-car accident in which Donaby was liable.

At the time of the crash, Aaron claims he was stopped at a red light in Belleville when Donaby rear-ended a vehicle two cars behind him.  The force of the impact sent both cars forward, and Aaron was hit from behind. 

Subsequent investigation concluded that Donaby's BAC was more than the legal limit of 0.08.

According to the suit, Aaron suffered bodily injuries as well as disability and disfigurement.  He claims his injuries resulted in past and future pain and suffering as well as lost income and medical expenses.

The two-count suit alleges that Donaby was negligent by driving in excess of the speed limit and under the influence of alcohol with a BAC of more than 0.08.  She also negligently drove when she knew she was unfit to do so and failed to avoid a collision.  He currently seeks a judgment in excess of $100,000, plus costs.

After sustaining serious injuries in a car accident, it is important to contact an attorney to determine your legal rights.  If the other driver was negligent, you may have a claim and can seek full or partial compensation for your medical bills as well as punitive damages.  Contact an experience Car Accident Lawyer at Page Cagle in St. Louis today for more information and answers.  We handle cases all over Missouri and Illinois and are available 24/7 for a free consultation.

King County officials settled a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Michael Dahlquist over a 2008 accident involving a Metro bus for $1.5 million.

Dahlquist, age 21, was driving his pick-up truck on Highway 164 when a Metro bus driver apparently swerved to avoid another vehicle and hit Dahlquist's truck.  Police investigation of the fatal crash showed that the bus driver may have been speeding.

Dahlquist's family filed suit against the county claiming that the driver's negligent driving was the reason for their son's death.  The family's attorney filed documents alleging that the driver had a history of accidents, thus claiming that the King County Transit Agency was negligent as it allowed the driver to continue working. 

Auto accidents involving large vehicles like buses or trucks often result in heavy damages or even death.  If you have been injured in an auto accident, do not hesitate to call our offices and speak with a member of our legal team.  We handle all types of auto accidents from cars to big rigs, both in Missouri and Illinois.  Contact us today for a free consultation.

After five DUIs, many wondered how Joseph Lynchard, 76, still had a drivers license.  They also wonder what he was thinking on the Monday afternoon after Easter in 2005 when he decided to drive home from his brother's bar after drinking more than a liter of red wine.  This decision not only earned him his sixth DUI charge, but it took the life of Kathryn Black who was biking on the side of the road.

At the time of the accident, Black had stopped to rest and was straddling her bike.  Lynchard, who had a BAC of 0.24 percent, slammed his car into her from behind.  She died from catastrophic injuries to her brain, neck, and spine.

In a civil suit, Kathryn's husband Hugh held Joseph directly responsible for his wife's death.  Furthermore, he alleged that Eddie Lynchard and his bar also bore responsibility because he knew that his brother frequently drank in excess at the bar and would drive home afterward.  Despite his record of reckless behavior, he even financed the truck Joseph drove the day he killed Black. 

According to court documents, by agreeing to look after his drunken brother, (after the previous 5 DUIs) Eddie assumed a legal obligation to control him.  Therefore, when Eddie let Joseph drink to the point of intoxication and then drive home, he essentially aided and abetted the behavior that lead directly to Black's death.

Although Eddie's attorney claims that Joseph bears sole responsibility for the accident, he advised his clients to settle.  Maxing out their personal, business, and auto insurance policies, the settlement came to $1.25 million.

Costing around $51 million annually, alcohol related traffic crashes are one of the most dangerous and tragic kinds of auto accidents.  If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident involving a drunk driver, do not hesitate to contact an Auto Accident Attorney at Page Cagle in St. Louis.  We handle cases all over Illinois and Missouri, ensuring that our clients get the maximum compensation possible.  Call us today for a free consultation!

Craig and Colette Poettker filed suit in a St. Clair County court Feb. 26 seeking more than $700,000 for injuries that Craig sustained by a flying piece of debris while working on a road construction zone in Belleville. 

The debris was the result of an accident where Joseph Courtney crashed through a barricade while trying to change lanes.  The debris went flying and struck Poettker, causing him to suffer severe and permanent head and leg injuries.

Investigation proved that Courtney was driving in excess of 35 miles in the construction zone and failed to slow down to the posted speed limit when workers were present.  Furthermore, he failed to keep a proper lookout for hazards and maintain control of his vehicle, which resulted in him hitting the barricade.

According to the suit, Poettker claims the accident caused, "mental anguish, incurred medical bills, lost income," and the inability to attend to ordinary affairs of life.  His wife also claims a loss of consortium and society.

If you or a loved one has been severely injured in a car accident, you should not hesitate to contact an experienced Auto Accident Attorney.  At Page Cagle, we provide the skills necessary to handle cases all over Missouri and Illinois.  Contact us today for a free consultation.

Nicole Lynn Roberts filed suit Wednesday against a Chicago cab driver and the Checker Cab Company after the cab driver hit her father while he crossed the street on February 7.

Minh Pham, 89, had the right of way at an intersection when the driver failed to yield and struck him.  He was hospitalized in the critical care unit but died later that evening from his injuries. 

According to the suit, the driver failed, "to keep a proper lookout, to decrease speed while approaching and crossing an intersection, and to yield the right of way to a pedestrian in a crosswalk."  Police also cited the cabbie for a lack of insurance and failure to exercise due care for a pedestrian in the roadway following a crash.

The three count suit seeks more than $50,000 in damages.

If you have lost a loved one because of the actions or negligence of someone else, you may be entitled to a wrongful death suit. The Wrongful Death Attorneys at Page Cagle in St. Louis have successfully litigated wrongful death suits all across Missouri and Illinois.  Call us today for a consultation.

Chicago plaintiffs finally have closure after losing their son over four years ago in tragic car accident that left three others seriously injured.  This month, a jury awarded the family $13.7 million in damages after concluding that the driver was 98% liable for the victim's death.

In August 2004, the victim was working as a BMW salesman and took the defendant and two of his friends out for a test drive in a BMW 530i sedan.  The defendant was only 20 years old and during the drive, he increased his speed to 90 mph in a 45 mph zone.  The BMW then clipped another vehicle and crashed in a light pole with the brunt of the impact on the passenger side, killing the victim and causing critical injuries in the other passengers.

After recovering from his injuries, the defendant pled guilty to aggravated speeding in 2005, but denied liability for the salesman's death claiming that he was the one who encouraged him to drive faster than the speed limit and never advised him to slow down.  Furthermore, the test drive violated the dealer's policy because they drove the car outside of the established route.

The plaintiffs, however, believed that their son would still be alive if he had used better judgment behind the wheel.

Following a one-week trial, a jury agreed with the plaintiffs and returned a $13.7 million verdict stating that the defendant was 98% responsible for the accident under the Illinois Comparative Negligence statute.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one because of the reckless driving of someone else, call our offices today and speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.  At Page Cagle, we represent clients all over Missouri and Illinois and can help you start building your case today. Contact an Illinois Car Accident Attorney today for a free consultation.

After repeated legal motions and appeals, a California judge recently upheld the largest verdict under the Federal Employer's Liability Act in history- $48 million.  The plaintiff, Eric Doi, was a Union Pacific signalman when he was involved in an auto accident in 2007 that resulted in the paralysis of all four of his limbs. 

At the time of the accident, Doi was a passenger in a company-owned truck when a coworker became distracted and lost control of the vehicle, sending it down an embankment and in front of oncoming traffic. 

Throughout the case, Union Pacific attempted every argument denying liability despite the fact that FELA clearly states that a railway is held liable for the negligence of a co-worker.  Last fall, a jury awarded Doi $48 million in damages, but Union Pacific attorneys pushed for further judicial review.  Even despite the most recent judicial upholding, UP's lawyers indicate they still intend to appeal to a higher court.

Since the accident, Doi's whole life changed dramatically as he now relies on family and professional caretakers to assist with daily tasks.  He needs constant daily care as well as rehabilitation.  He hopes to someday learn how to drive a car again.

Railroad accidents can have devastating and permanent effects on rail workers.  If you have been involved in an accident at work and you feel it was the result of negligence, contact Page Cagle today and speak with a FELA Attorney about your case.  With our help, you could recover damages for injuries, medical bills, lost income, and other financial hardships. Call us today!

This week, the Huntley Project School District reached a settlement with the parents of a 7-year-old girl who died in a bus crash last year.  Sarah Fark, an elementary school student at Huntley, was riding a school bus when it pulled in front of an oncoming pickup truck. 

Tuesday, the school board of trustees voted to approve the settlement, but did not release details to the press.  According to the school's superintendent, trustees did not know the terms of the settlement until it was time to vote at the executive session on Feb 10.

The bus driver pleaded guilty to careless driving and failure to yield.  She received a six-month suspended jail sentence.

If a family member has been killed because of the careless or intentional acts of another, you should immediately seek legal help to organize and assemble your case.  The Wrongful Death Attorneys at Page Cagle understand that losing a loved one is a traumatic time, but we will do everything in our power to smooth the way for you.  Contact us 24/7 for a free consultation! 

In simultaneous proceedings, a former Erie Coke Corp. employee faces criminal charges of vehicular homicide as well as a wrongful death suit in an Erie Court after killing a motorcyclist last August. 

At the time of the crash, Martin P. Allen was on his way home from a meeting of Erie Coke employees at the Huzars Club when he hit Kevin R. Imler with his SUV as he was turning left in front of the motorcycle at an intersection.  Police arrested Allen for driving under the influence with a .248 blood alcohol content, which is three times the legal limit in Pennsylvania.  

In the civil suit, Imler's estate filed against Allen, Erie Coke Corp. and the Huzars Club.  According to the state's Dram Shop Act, taverns can be held liable if servers provide alcohol to a visibly intoxicated consumer who causes harm.  Furthermore, since Allen was driving a company-owned Mercury Mountaineer and leaving an employee meeting when the crash occurred, the corporation can liable for Allen's actions. 

Reports also state that Allen had a previous DUI on his record and that Erie Coke employees bought him drinks at the meeting.  The suit claims that considering Allen's previous driving record, the employees present at the meeting should not have let him leave if he was visibly intoxicated.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you should not hesitate to seek immediate legal action against all parties involved.  The Car Accident Attorneys of Page Cagle law firm in St. Louis have the experience and know-how to maximize compensation in your case.  We have handled several suits all across Missouri and Illinois, and we are available 24/7 to answer any of your legal questions.