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A car accident citation is a traffic ticket issued by law enforcement at the scene of a crash. It’s usually given to a driver for a specific traffic violation, such as running a red light, following too closely, or failing to yield. While this citation highlights a potential violation, it does not determine who caused the accident or who is legally responsible.
Understanding car accident citations matters because they often become part of the evidence considered during insurance claims or legal disputes. Many people believe that getting a citation means they are automatically at fault, but this is not true.
Insurance companies and courts also look at police reports, statements from witnesses, and physical evidence from the scene. Knowing how these pieces fit together helps protect your rights and strengthens your position if you seek compensation.
At Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien in Springfield, we help people navigate the legal aftermath of car accidents, especially when citations are involved. We understand how stressful and confusing facing the legal system after a crash can be.
We work with you to review the citation, gather supporting evidence, and build a strong case to protect your interests.
Common Reasons for Receiving a Citation After a Car Accident
Getting a traffic citation after a car accident in Missouri can significantly impact your insurance claims, fault determination, and even legal outcomes. Knowing the common reasons for these citations can help you understand your legal situation and possible defenses.
Failure to Yield
One of the most common reasons for citations in Missouri is failing to yield the right of way. Under RSMo § 304.351, drivers must yield at intersections, turn left across traffic, or merge onto a roadway. Failing to do so can result in fines, 2-3 points on your license, and higher insurance premiums.
When failure to yield causes an accident, especially side-impact or pedestrian crashes, it is often seen as negligence and plays a significant role in determining fault. Addressing this citation type quickly can help reduce legal risks and protect your driving record.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions are another common cause of citations. These often involve violations like following too closely (RSMo § 304.017) or careless and imprudent driving (RSMo § 304.012). Missouri law generally presumes the driver in the rear is at fault because they are required to maintain a safe distance.
However, this presumption can be challenged. For example, liability may be disputed if the lead car stopped suddenly without warning, had faulty brake lights, or had road hazards that contributed to the crash. Evidence like dashcam footage, witness statements, or road conditions can be used to contest these citations.
By understanding these standard citation triggers, you can better protect your rights and respond effectively if you’re involved in a car accident in Missouri.
Legal and Financial Consequences of a Car Accident Citation
Receiving a traffic citation after a car accident in Missouri can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Understanding how a citation can affect your driving record, insurance rates, and even your legal rights is essential.
Impact on Your Driving Record
Most traffic citations, such as failure to yield or following too closely, add points to your Missouri driving record. If you accumulate eight or more points within 18 months, your license could be suspended under RSMo § 302.302. These points can remain on your record for years and may lead to additional penalties if more violations occur.
Financial Consequences
Traffic citations often increase auto insurance premiums, as insurers view them as evidence of risky driving behavior. Even one citation can have career-altering implications for commercial drivers or individuals whose jobs require a clean driving record. Increased insurance costs and potential job risks make citations more than a minor inconvenience.
Legal Implications
A traffic citation can also influence fault determinations in insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits. While a citation is not definitive proof of fault, it may be used as evidence of negligence in civil court. Additionally, paying the ticket in Missouri is generally treated as a guilty plea, which could hurt your position in any legal disputes related to the accident.
Missouri’s Comparative Fault System
Missouri follows a comparative fault system (RSMo § 537.765), meaning both parties in an accident may share responsibility. Even if you are partially at fault, reducing your percentage of liability can significantly affect the compensation you might receive. A citation can increase the perception of your fault, so minimizing the impact of the citation is essential.
Why You Should Consult an Attorney
Navigating the legal and financial consequences of a traffic citation can be challenging. A knowledgeable traffic or personal injury attorney can help protect your rights, contest the citation, and reduce its long-term impact. Professional guidance can make a big difference in maintaining a clean driving record or preserving your legal position.
Understanding the implications of a traffic citation and taking the proper steps can mitigate the potential damage to your driving record, finances, and legal standing.
How to Respond to a Car Accident Citation
Receiving a citation after a car accident in Springfield doesn’t have to be overwhelming. How you respond can impact your driving record, insurance rates, and potential liability in a civil lawsuit. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you make the best decision.
Your Options After Receiving a Citation
In Missouri, you generally have three options when dealing with a traffic citation:
- Pay the fine: This is the quickest option, and most fines can be paid online through the Springfield Municipal Court or Greene County Circuit Court websites. However, paying the fine is a guilty plea under Missouri Supreme Court Rule 37.58. This adds points to your driving record, which could increase your insurance premiums.
- Contest the citation: To fight the ticket, you must plead “not guilty” by the court date listed on your citation. You can usually do this online, by mail, or in person. Once your plea is submitted, a court hearing will be scheduled. You or your attorney can present evidence at the hearing, question the officer, and argue your case.
- Seek legal counsel for plea negotiation: An attorney can negotiate to reduce the charge or minimize its impact on your record. This might involve amending the citation to a less severe offense, like a non-moving violation, or dismissing it.
If you’re unsure how to proceed, it’s highly recommended that you consult a lawyer. An experienced attorney can evaluate your situation and advise on the best action.
Why You Might Want to Contest the Citation
Fighting a car accident citation isn’t just about avoiding a fine—it could protect you from further consequences.
- Avoiding liability in a civil lawsuit: Paying a traffic fine is often viewed as an admission of guilt. If the citation is tied to an accident where the fault is disputed (like a rear-end collision or failure to yield), this could be used against you in an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. Contesting the citation might help strengthen your position in these cases.
- Preventing points on your license: Missouri’s point system (RSMo § 302.302) can lead to license suspension if you accumulate 8 points in 18 months. Contesting the citation could result in reduced or no points being added, especially if the charge is amended or dismissed.
- Protecting your career: If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL), even minor traffic violations can have serious consequences, including federal reporting or job loss. Legal defense is crucial in these cases.
If you’ve received a car accident citation, don’t delay deciding how to respond. Whether you pay the fine, contest the charge, or seek legal help, acting quickly can help you avoid unnecessary penalties and protect your future.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Accident Citation
Getting a citation after a car accident can feel stressful, but taking the proper steps can help protect your legal rights and ensure you’re prepared. Whether you plan to challenge the citation or need to file an insurance claim, your actions after the accident are crucial. Here’s what you should do:
Document the Accident Scene
If it’s safe, take photos of the scene as soon as possible. Include vehicle positions, damage, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, and skid marks. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Their statements could be valuable if there’s a dispute about who was at fault.
Review the Police Report
Request a copy of the accident report from the Springfield Police Department or the Missouri State Highway Patrol, depending on who responded to the accident. Check the report for errors, such as incorrect vehicle details, time, location, or descriptions of the collision.
If you notice mistakes, you can ask for corrections, though officers are only required to make changes if there is clear evidence of a factual error. In Missouri, these requests are usually made in writing and should include supporting evidence like photos or witness statements.
Pay Attention to Deadlines
Traffic citations often include deadlines for paying the fine or contesting the ticket. Missing these deadlines can lead to additional penalties, such as license suspension, default judgments, or extra fines under Missouri Supreme Court Rule 37. Check the citation for the exact deadline and respond on time.
Speak with a Lawyer
A minor citation can impact your driving record or complicate an insurance claim. Consult a lawyer before deciding whether to pay the fine or fight the citation. At Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien, we help clients understand their options, review evidence, and take the best steps to protect their rights.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider promptly, even if you weren’t at fault. Share a clear and factual account of what happened. Avoid making inaccurate or inconsistent statements, as these could harm your claim. If you’re worried about how the citation might affect your insurance, a lawyer can help you communicate with your insurer effectively.
By following these steps, you can handle the situation confidently and protect your legal and financial interests.
How Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien Can Help
At Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien, our experienced attorneys can help you navigate the complicated legal system and build a strong defense for your traffic violation. Here’s how we can help:
Experienced Legal Support for Car Accidents
Reliable legal support is essential after a car accident. At Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien, we bring over 40 years of experience handling traffic citations and accident-related cases across Missouri. We pride ourselves on understanding each client’s unique situation and tailoring our approach accordingly.
Free Consultation to Get Started
We begin with a free consultation to evaluate your case. During this session, we provide initial legal advice, outline your options, and equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your next steps.
Thorough Investigation for a Strong Case
Once we take on a case, we leave no stone unturned. Our team diligently gathers critical evidence, including:
- Accident reports
- Witness statements
- Relevant video footage
This comprehensive preparation allows us to build a strong foundation for your defense or legal claim.
Dedicated Representation in Court
Our attorneys confidently represent your interests in court. We leverage our deep understanding of Missouri’s legal system, local courts, and regulations to protect your rights. Whether reducing penalties or securing favorable settlements, we aim for the best possible outcome.
With Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien by your side, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Our experienced car accident lawyers are committed to advocating for you and easing the burdens of legal proceedings after an accident.
Contact Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien – Springfield
We pride ourselves on providing personalized legal guidance. Experienced in personal injury law, our team understands such cases’ complexities and emotional weight. We’ve successfully secured what our clients are owed and are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes.
Personal injuries can lead to significant financial burdens. That’s why we offer free consultations. There’s no obligation, and we ensure confidentiality, allowing you to discuss your case confidently.
Our focus remains on protecting your rights. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate your legal situation with clarity and support.
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