Determining Liability for Accidents Near Hampton Ave and I-44

Interstate 44 runs due east through St. Louis until it meets I-55 south of downtown. From there, I-44 runs concurrently with I-55 for approximately two miles, then continues north through downtown St. Louis to its junction with I-70 at the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge. Heavy traffic makes accidents more likely to happen on this highway, particularly around the on and off-ramps, at the dangerous area near Hampton Avenue and I-44.

What Factors Make Accidents More Likely Near I-44 and Hampton Avenue?

Hampton Avenue is a major road that cuts underneath I-44. Lengthy on and off-ramps are a leading factor contributing to accidents at this intersection. The length of the highway exits makes it difficult for drivers to judge when they will need to come to a complete stop and may tempt them to speed. Drivers merging onto the highway from on-ramps may blindly cut off oncoming traffic.

Who Has the Right-of-Way at Intersections?

People driving through intersections such as Hampton Avenue and I-44 should have a clear understanding of who has the right-of-way in every conceivable situation. The following are some right-of-way rules for intersections:

• Right-of-way at a yield sign: Any motorist with a yield sign at an intersection must yield the right-of-way to approaching vehicles. Unless it is necessary for safety, drivers are not required to come to a complete stop at a yield sign.
• Right-of-way when merging onto a freeway: When a driver is merging onto a freeway from an on-ramp, vehicles already traveling on the highway have the right-of-way. All drivers involved should adjust their speed and relative locations to avoid a collision.
• Right-of-way for left-hand turns: When two vehicles approach an intersection from opposite directions, if one is turning left, that driver must yield the right of way to the vehicle traveling straight through the intersection. The exception is a protected left turn, in which left-turning traffic may proceed on the green arrow.
• Right-of-way at controlled intersections: Traffic lights and signs help direct the flow of traffic at controlled intersections. Right-of-ways rules must still be applied, as traffic control devices cannot resolve all conflicts. It is important to check to see that the intersection is clear before proceeding.

What Types of Accidents Can Happen Near Hampton Avenue and I-44?

In December 2021, a van crashed into a Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) truck on I-44 just west of Hampton Avenue, as reported on Fox 2 Now. Several types of accidents can happen at this and other intersections, including:

• Rear-end collision when a driver is following too closely to the vehicle ahead
• T-bone accident when a driver runs a red light and crashes into the side of another vehicle
• Head-on collision when a driver turning left against oncoming traffic fails to yield the right-of-way
• Sideswipe accident when a driver fails to check blind spots before changing lanes or turning

How Is Liability Determined for a Crash at a Dangerous Intersection?

A negligent driver who causes a collision may be held liable for resulting injuries. In some cases, there may be other potentially liable parties, such as a driver’s employer. Our St. Louis car accident attorneys at Page Law can investigate your accident to determine fault and liability and pursue all available forms of compensation. We can secure evidence to support your claim, assess the full extent of your damages, and negotiate skillfully with insurance companies on your behalf.

We have recovered tens of millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. Our attorneys have been awarded membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. Call us at 1-800 CAR-CRASH (800-227-2727) to schedule a free consultation after a serious intersection accident.