An auto accident can result in serious injury, extensive vehicle damage, and significant pain and emotional distress. In the aftermath of a crash, it is important to protect your legal rights by following the processes and procedures laid out in Missouri's accident laws. To help understand these laws, below are answers to commonly asked questions that Missouri auto accident attorneys routinely receive.

Answers to Common Questions About Missouri Auto Accidents

What are Missouri's insurance requirements for drivers?

The state requires all drivers to carry liability insurance that meets coverage minimums. These minimums are $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 per accident for property damage. All drivers must carry proof of insurance with them while operating a motor vehicle.

How long do you have after an accident to file a relevant lawsuit?

In general, the sooner you file a lawsuit in the wake of an accident, the stronger your case will be. However, Missouri allows a person up to five years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If the accident resulted in another party's death, their survivors have up to three years from the date of the accident to file a wrongful death claim.

How does Missouri decide fault in an accident?

Missouri is a pure comparative fault state. This means that you could be assigned a percentage of fault in the case, and any damages you receive would be adjusted accordingly. For instance, if one driver was distracted by their cell phone and was hit by another driver, the distracted driver bears some responsibility for the crash, even if they did not technically cause the collision itself. A judge or jury might find that the driver who was on their phone is 10 percent liable, and the other driver is 90 percent liable. The distracted driver’s compensation in the case would then be reduced by 10 percent.

When should car accidents be reported?

Auto accident attorneys advise reporting any crash, no matter how minor, to police as soon as possible. They preferably want it reported at the scene of the accident. The police will provide a report of the events, which will be helpful should one of the drivers file a lawsuit. The law requires reporting of all accidents involving uninsured motorists. This includes accidents that cause more than $500 in property damage, or those in which a parked car is struck and results in injury or death.

Auto accident attorney Christopher J. Swatosh, Attorney at Law in Douglas County, MO, will ensure you know your legal rights and responsibilities. With more than 20 years of experience, he serves clients with care and effectiveness. He offers representation in accidents, personal injuries, and criminal and family law cases. Call (417) 683-2987 to schedule a consultation with an auto accident attorney today.