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Car accident law in Missouri covers the legal rights and responsibilities of individuals involved in motor vehicle collisions. These laws set out how fault is determined, what compensation may be due for injuries or property damage, and how claims must be filed. If you have been in a car accident in Missouri, it is important to understand both your legal obligations and the rights you have under state law. Missouri's car accident laws aim to ensure that victims are fairly compensated while also providing a process to resolve disputes between parties involved in a collision.
There are several situations where seeking legal help for a car accident in Missouri is not only beneficial but may also be necessary. A lawyer can guide you through the complexities of dealing with insurance companies, understanding liability, and ensuring that you recover the full compensation to which you are entitled. Help from a legal professional may be especially useful in the following circumstances:
Legal counsel can help you protect your interests and navigate the legal process to achieve the best possible outcome.
Missouri has several key laws that impact car accident claims and cases:
Check for injuries, call 911 if necessary, and move to a safe location if possible. Exchange information with the other driver, take photos of the scene, and report the accident to the police if required. Notify your insurance company promptly.
You are required to call the police if there are injuries, fatalities, or if property damage exceeds $500. Even if it's not legally required, obtaining a police report can help with your insurance claim.
Fault is determined based on evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence at the scene. Because Missouri uses pure comparative fault, even if you are partly to blame, you may still recover damages.
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and sometimes punitive damages in severe cases.
No, most car accident claims are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies. You may only need to file a lawsuit if a settlement cannot be reached.
You have five years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage in Missouri.
You can file a claim with your own insurer under your uninsured motorist coverage, which is mandatory in Missouri.
As a passenger, you have the right to pursue a claim for your injuries against any driver who was at fault, including the driver of the car you were riding in.
Your financial recovery will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found 30 percent at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by 30 percent.
Many car accident lawyers in Missouri work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay only if you recover compensation. Fees are typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict.
If you need more information or assistance, the following resources may be helpful:
After a car accident in Missouri, it is important to prioritize your safety and health. Take care of your immediate medical needs, notify the necessary authorities, and gather all relevant information about the accident. Consider reaching out to a qualified Missouri car accident lawyer for a consultation, especially if your case is complex or you are unsure how to proceed. A legal professional can review your case, explain your rights, and help you pursue fair compensation. Organize all documentation related to the accident, including police reports, medical records, and communication with insurance companies, to streamline the process. The sooner you seek advice, the better prepared you will be to protect your legal rights.
