The phone call from the other driver’s insurance adjuster will come sooner than you think. It’s important to remember that their job isn’t to help you; it’s to protect their company’s bottom line by paying as little as possible. They are trained negotiators who know how to use your words against you. This article will equip you with the knowledge to handle these conversations and avoid common mistakes that could weaken your claim. We’ll cover the evidence you need, the deadlines you must meet, and the strategies that will help you get compensation for a car accident in Missouri.

Key Takeaways

Know How Fault Works in Missouri: You can get compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident due to the state’s “pure comparative negligence” rule. Your final settlement is just reduced by your percentage of fault, which is why proving the other driver’s negligence is so important.
Document Everything to Prove Your Losses: A strong claim is built on solid proof. Immediately after an accident, prioritize getting a police report, taking photos, and seeking medical care to create a clear link between the crash and your injuries and expenses.
Avoid Common Mistakes That Weaken Your Claim: Protect your right to fair compensation by never admitting fault at the scene, delaying medical treatment, or giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance adjuster without legal advice.

Missouri Car Accident Laws: What You Need to Know

After a car accident, you’re likely dealing with a lot—vehicle repairs, medical appointments, and calls from insurance adjusters. On top of it all, you have to figure out Missouri’s specific legal system. Understanding a few key state laws is the first step toward protecting your rights and getting the compensation you deserve. The rules around fault, shared responsibility, and insurance can directly impact your claim. Let’s walk through the three main concepts you need to be aware of.

The At-Fault Insurance System

Missouri is an “at-fault” state. In simple terms, this means the person who caused the accident is legally responsible for paying for the damages. To get compensation, you or your attorney will need to prove that the other driver was negligent and that their actions led to your injuries and property damage. This is different from “no-fault” states, where your own insurance covers your initial bills regardless of who caused the crash. Because proving fault is so critical here, gathering strong evidence like police reports and witness statements is essential for a successful automobile accident claim.

Understanding Pure Comparative Negligence

What happens if you were partially to blame for the accident? Missouri law has a rule for this called “pure comparative negligence.” This sounds complicated, but the idea is pretty straightforward: you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault. Your final compensation amount is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you have $100,000 in damages but are found to be 20% responsible for the crash, you can still collect $80,000. Insurance companies may try to assign you more blame to pay less, which is why having an advocate on your side is so important.

Missouri’s Minimum Insurance Requirements

Every driver in Missouri is required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. The law mandates coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for total bodily injuries in a single accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Additionally, drivers must have uninsured motorist coverage. This protects you if you’re hit by someone who has no insurance at all. While these are the minimums, it’s often a good idea to have more coverage. If you have questions about how insurance limits might affect your claim, it’s a good idea to contact a legal professional for clarity.

What Compensation Can You Claim After a Car Accident?

After a car accident, the term “compensation” covers much more than just the cost of fixing your car. In Missouri, you can seek payment for a wide range of losses resulting from the crash. These losses are typically grouped into three main categories: economic, non-economic, and, in rare situations, punitive damages. Understanding what you can claim is the first step toward getting a fair settlement that truly covers what you’ve been through. An experienced attorney can help you identify all potential areas of compensation to ensure nothing is overlooked during this stressful time.

Economic Damages

Think of economic damages as any loss that comes with a clear price tag. These are the tangible, out-of-pocket expenses you’ve incurred because of the accident. The most common examples include medical bills for everything from the initial emergency room visit to ongoing physical therapy, lost wages from time you had to take off work to recover, and property damage to your vehicle. It’s also possible to claim future lost income if your injuries affect your ability to work long-term. To support your claim for these damages, it is absolutely essential to keep meticulous records of every receipt, invoice, and pay stub. These documents are the foundation of your personal injury claim.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages cover the impacts of an accident that don’t have a neat and tidy bill attached. These losses are deeply personal and can be just as devastating as financial ones. This category includes compensation for your physical pain and suffering, emotional distress like anxiety or PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life—for instance, if your injuries prevent you from playing with your children or participating in hobbies you once loved. While it’s harder to assign a dollar value to this kind of suffering, it is a critical part of your compensation. An experienced attorney can help you articulate these losses and fight for a settlement that acknowledges the full human cost of the accident.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are different from the other two categories. They aren’t designed to compensate you for a specific loss but to punish the at-fault party for exceptionally reckless or malicious behavior. Think of situations involving a drunk driver or someone who intentionally caused the crash. These damages are meant to deter similar conduct in the future. Because they are reserved for the most serious cases, punitive damages are not awarded often. In Missouri, there are also legal caps on the amount you can receive. While not a factor in most automobile accident cases, it’s important to know they exist for instances of extreme negligence.

How Does Comparative Negligence Affect Your Payout?

If you’ve been in a car accident in Missouri, one of the most important legal concepts you’ll encounter is “pure comparative negligence.” It sounds complicated, but the idea is fairly simple: you can still receive compensation for your injuries even if you were partially at fault for the crash. However, your final payout will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Let’s say your total damages—including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering—add up to $100,000. If an investigation determines you were 30% responsible for the accident (maybe you were slightly over the speed limit), you would be eligible to receive $70,000, which is the total amount minus your 30% share of the fault. This rule is a double-edged sword. While it allows you to recover money even if you made a small mistake, it also gives the other driver’s insurance company a powerful incentive to shift as much blame as possible onto you. The more fault they can assign to you, the less they have to pay. Understanding how this works is critical when dealing with automobile accidents and fighting for the compensation you deserve.

How Fault Percentages Are Calculated

Fault percentages aren’t just pulled out of thin air. They are determined by carefully reviewing all the evidence from the accident. To build a strong claim, you and your attorney must show that the other driver had a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely, they failed to do so (for example, by texting or running a red light), and their actions directly caused the crash and your injuries. Insurance adjusters and juries will look at police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and physical evidence from the scene to piece together what happened. They then assign a percentage of responsibility to each driver involved based on this evidence.

The Impact on Your Final Settlement

The percentage of fault assigned to you has a direct and significant impact on your final settlement. Your total damages are calculated first, and then that number is reduced based on your share of the blame. For instance, if your total damages are $50,000 and you’re found to be 10% at fault, your final settlement would be $45,000. This is why it’s so important to challenge any unfair accusations from the insurance company. Even a small, incorrect assignment of fault can cost you thousands of dollars. If you feel the other party is unfairly blaming you, it’s a good time to discuss your case with an experienced attorney who can help protect your rights.

How to File a Car Accident Claim in Missouri: A Step-by-Step Guide

After a car accident, figuring out what to do next can feel like a monumental task. Your head is spinning, you might be in pain, and now you have to deal with insurance claims. It’s a lot to handle. But you don’t have to do it all at once. By breaking the process down into clear, manageable steps, you can confidently move forward and protect your right to compensation. Think of this as your roadmap for the days and weeks following a crash.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident

Your first priority is safety. Before you think about insurance or legal claims, check on yourself and your passengers. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away for medical assistance. You should also call the police, especially if there are injuries or property damage that looks to be over $500. An official police report is a vital piece of evidence. Once it’s safe, use your phone to take pictures of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, but avoid discussing who was at fault. Stick to the facts and let the evidence speak for itself.

Notifying the Insurance Company

You’ll need to report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as you can. Most policies require prompt notification. However, be cautious when speaking with the other driver’s insurance adjuster. They may call you quickly and ask for a recorded statement. It’s often best to decline this request until you’ve had a chance to speak with an attorney. The adjuster’s job is to protect their company’s bottom line, and they are trained to ask questions that could be used to limit your claim. Understanding your rights is key before you give any formal statements about the automobile accident.

Gathering Your Documents and Evidence

Building a strong claim is all about documentation. Start a dedicated folder and keep everything related to the accident in one place. This includes the police report, the other driver’s information, and any photos or videos you took at the scene. As you receive medical care, save every bill, receipt, and doctor’s note. If you miss work, get a letter from your employer detailing your lost wages. It’s also helpful to keep a simple journal. Write down how you’re feeling physically and emotionally each day and how your injuries are affecting your daily life. This record can be incredibly valuable for demonstrating your pain and suffering.

Filing Your Official Claim

Once you have a clear understanding of your injuries and losses, it’s time to file a formal claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. This is typically done through a demand letter that outlines the facts of the accident and details the compensation you are seeking. It’s often wise to wait until you’ve reached what’s known as “maximum medical improvement” (MMI) to ensure all your current and future medical costs are included. In Missouri, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit, but don’t wait. If you need guidance on this process, it’s a good idea to contact a legal professional to ensure you file correctly and on time.

Critical Deadlines for Missouri Car Accident Claims

After a car accident, you’re juggling a lot—doctor’s appointments, car repairs, and just trying to get back to your routine. It’s easy to let things slide, but when it comes to your legal claim, time is not on your side. Missouri has strict deadlines, called statutes of limitations, for filing a lawsuit. If you miss these windows, you could lose your right to get any compensation for your injuries or damaged property. It’s a harsh reality, but it’s why understanding these timelines is one of the most important first steps you can take. Knowing these dates helps protect your rights and ensures you have the best possible chance of receiving a fair settlement for your automobile accident claim. Let’s break down the key deadlines you need to know.

The Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury

In Missouri, the main deadline you need to circle on your calendar is the statute of limitations for personal injury. You have five years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. While five years might sound like a long time, building a strong case takes effort. You’ll need to gather evidence, complete medical treatment, and negotiate with insurance companies. Waiting too long can make it harder to find witnesses and preserve crucial evidence. The car accident settlement timeline can vary, but if you don’t file your claim within this five-year period, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you’ll lose the ability to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Timelines for Property Damage Claims

The clock is also ticking on claims for your vehicle and any other personal belongings damaged in the crash. Just like with personal injuries, Missouri car accident laws give you five years to file a lawsuit for property damage. This covers the cost of repairing your car or, if it’s totaled, getting compensation for its value. It also applies to other items that might have been damaged, like a laptop or phone. It’s smart to handle your property damage claim alongside your injury claim to keep everything organized and ensure you don’t miss this important deadline. Acting promptly helps you get the funds you need for repairs or replacement without unnecessary delays.

Special Deadlines for Claims Against Government Entities

Things get a lot more complicated if your accident involved a government vehicle, like a city bus or a state-owned truck. The rules for suing a government entity are completely different and much stricter. You must provide a formal notice of your claim within 90 days of the accident. This isn’t a lawsuit—it’s a required first step before you can even consider filing one. This 90-day window is incredibly short, and missing it can permanently bar you from seeking compensation. Because these cases are so complex, it’s a good idea to contact an attorney immediately if a government employee was involved in your accident.

What Evidence Will Support Your Compensation Claim?

After a car accident, your word alone isn’t enough to secure the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies and courts rely on concrete evidence to understand what happened, who was at fault, and the extent of your damages. Building a strong case is like putting together a puzzle—each piece of evidence helps create a clear picture of the incident and its impact on your life. The more thorough and organized your documentation is, the better your position will be during negotiations or in court. A well-documented claim demonstrates professionalism and seriousness, signaling to the insurance company that you are prepared to fight for a fair settlement.

From the moment the accident occurs, you should think like an investigator. Your primary focus is your health and safety, but if you are able, gathering key information can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. This includes everything from official reports to personal records. Strong evidence substantiates your claim for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. It removes doubt and provides a factual basis for your settlement demand, making it harder for the at-fault party’s insurance company to dispute or deny your claim. Without it, you risk leaving money on the table or having your claim dismissed entirely. Let’s walk through the essential types of evidence you’ll need to protect your rights.

Medical Records and Bills

Your health is the top priority, and documenting your medical journey is crucial for your claim. Medical records provide a direct link between the accident and your injuries. It’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible after the crash, even if you feel fine, as some injuries have delayed symptoms. Failing to get prompt medical care is a common mistake that can give the insurance company an opening to argue your injuries aren’t related to the accident. Be sure to keep a detailed file of every doctor’s visit, diagnosis, treatment plan, prescription, and medical bill. These documents are the most powerful proof of your physical injuries and the financial cost of your recovery.

Police Reports and Witness Statements

An official police report is one of the most valuable pieces of evidence you can have. It serves as an unbiased, third-party account of the accident, often including details like the date, time, location, road conditions, and preliminary findings on fault. In Missouri, you should always call the police if there are injuries or significant property damage. Additionally, statements from witnesses can be incredibly persuasive. If anyone saw the accident, get their name and contact information. An independent account that supports your version of events can strengthen your claim and counter any disputes from the other driver.

Photos and Videos of the Scene

In the moments after a crash, your smartphone is a powerful tool. Visual evidence can capture the scene in a way that words cannot. If you are physically able, take photos and videos from multiple angles. Document the damage to all vehicles involved, the position of the cars, any skid marks on the road, relevant traffic signs or signals, and the weather conditions. It’s also important to take pictures of any visible injuries you have, like cuts or bruises. This visual proof helps paint a vivid picture for insurance adjusters and can be critical in establishing how the accident happened and the severity of the impact.

Proof of Lost Wages

A car accident can disrupt more than just your health—it can also affect your ability to work and earn a living. You are entitled to compensation for any income you lose as a result of your injuries. To support this part of your claim, you’ll need to gather specific documents. This includes recent pay stubs to show your rate of pay and a letter from your employer confirming the dates you were unable to work. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your job long-term, you may also need documentation from your doctor. Keeping clear records is the best way to show your losses and recover the income you’re owed.

How to Maximize Your Car Accident Compensation

After a car accident, your main focus should be on your physical and emotional recovery. But the steps you take in the following days and weeks can have a huge impact on the financial compensation you receive. Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is often to resolve claims as quickly and cheaply as possible. This means their first offers might not cover the full scope of your damages, which can include everything from immediate medical bills and car repairs to future treatment costs and lost income.

Getting fair compensation isn’t about hitting a jackpot; it’s about making sure you have the resources you need to put your life back together. To protect your rights and get the full amount you’re entitled to, you need to be strategic. This means understanding what your claim is really worth, carefully documenting your losses, and knowing how to handle conversations with insurance adjusters. By taking a proactive approach, you can build a strong case that shows the true impact the accident has had on your life.

Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer

It can be really tempting to take the first settlement offer you get, especially when bills are starting to pile up. But it’s important to be cautious. Insurance companies know you’re in a tough spot and may offer a quick payout to close your case for less than it’s truly worth. It’s often an attempt to pay you less than your claim is worth before you’ve had a chance to understand the long-term costs of your injuries. Before you sign anything, give yourself time to see how your recovery goes and talk to an attorney to figure out the real value of your claim. A fair settlement should cover all your current and future expenses, not just the immediate ones.

Document Everything Correctly

A strong claim is built on solid evidence, and that starts with careful documentation. From the moment the accident happens, keep a detailed record of everything related to your case. This includes medical bills, receipts for prescriptions, and records of any other out-of-pocket expenses, like paying for rides to your doctor’s appointments. Failing to document your medical treatment could make it harder to prove your injuries stem from the accident. It’s also a good idea to keep a simple journal detailing your pain levels, physical limitations, and how the accident is affecting you emotionally. This information will be crucial for showing the full extent of your losses when building your case.

Prioritize Your Medical Treatment

Your health should always come first. After an accident, you need to see a doctor right away, even if you don’t feel hurt. Some serious injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, can have delayed symptoms. Getting immediate medical attention not only protects your well-being but also creates an official record that links your injuries directly to the crash. Insurance companies often look for “gaps in treatment” to argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim or were caused by something else. Following your doctor’s orders, going to all your follow-up appointments, and completing any prescribed therapy are critical steps for both your recovery and the strength of your legal claim.

Negotiate Effectively with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance adjusters can be tricky. Their job is to protect their company’s finances, and they are trained negotiators. They might try to get you to give a recorded statement, which can be used against you later, or use stalling tactics to pressure you into accepting less. In fact, one of the most effective insurance company tactics to reduce your settlement is simply stalling out the claims process. The best way to level the playing field is to have an experienced personal injury attorney handle all communications. An attorney understands these strategies and can negotiate for you to make sure your rights are protected and you receive a fair offer.

Common Mistakes That Can Reduce Your Compensation

After a car accident, the steps you take—and the ones you don’t—can significantly impact your ability to get fair compensation. In the aftermath of a crash, you’re likely dealing with shock, pain, and a flood of questions. It’s a stressful and confusing time, and it’s easy to make a mistake without even realizing it. Unfortunately, insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to protect their bottom line, which often means paying out as little as possible on claims. Their adjusters are trained professionals whose job is to find any reason to reduce or deny what you’re owed.

Being aware of these common pitfalls can help you protect your rights and build a stronger case from the very beginning. Even small, seemingly innocent missteps, like a casual apology at the scene or a quick recorded statement over the phone, can have major consequences down the road. By understanding what to avoid, you put yourself in a much better position to recover the full amount you deserve for your injuries, property damage, and other losses. This section will walk you through the most frequent mistakes people make so you can be prepared. Think of it as your guide to safeguarding your claim from the moment the accident happens.

Admitting Fault at the Scene

In the chaotic moments after a crash, it’s natural to want to be helpful or even apologize. However, you should never admit fault. Saying something as simple as “I’m so sorry” can be interpreted as an admission of guilt by insurance adjusters and used against you later. Stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver and the police. Exchange insurance information and provide a factual account of what happened without assigning blame. You may not have all the information about what caused the accident, and it’s the job of investigators and legal professionals to determine fault.

Delaying Medical Care

Your health should always be your top priority. Seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident, even if you don’t feel seriously hurt. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, may not show symptoms for hours or even days. Delaying a medical evaluation creates a gap in your record that an insurance company can use to argue your injuries weren’t caused by the crash. A prompt medical exam not only ensures you get the care you need but also creates a crucial medical record that directly links your injuries to the accident, strengthening your personal injury claim.

Giving a Recorded Statement to an Adjuster

Soon after the accident, you will likely get a call from the other driver’s insurance adjuster asking for a recorded statement. It’s important to remember that this person is not on your side. Their goal is to find information that will allow their company to pay out as little as possible. They are trained to ask questions that might confuse you or get you to say something that undermines your claim. You are not legally obligated to provide a recorded statement. You can politely decline and state that you will not be discussing the details of the accident until you have sought legal advice.

Keeping Poor Records

A successful car accident claim is built on strong evidence. Failing to keep detailed records can make it difficult to prove the full extent of your losses. From day one, start a file and keep everything related to the accident. This includes medical bills, receipts for prescriptions, car repair estimates, and documentation of any lost wages from missing work. It’s also helpful to keep a simple journal detailing your pain levels, medical appointments, and how your injuries are affecting your daily life. This thorough documentation will be essential for calculating your damages and ensuring you are compensated for all your expenses.

When Should You Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?

Deciding whether to hire an attorney after a car accident can feel like a big step, especially when you’re already dealing with injuries and vehicle repairs. For minor fender-benders with no injuries, you might be able to handle the claim on your own. However, many situations are far more complex and can quickly become overwhelming. If you find yourself facing mounting medical bills, confusing paperwork, or an uncooperative insurance adjuster, it’s a clear sign that you need a professional in your corner.

An experienced personal injury attorney does more than just file paperwork. They become your advocate, working to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses. They understand the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts and know how to build a strong case on your behalf. Bringing in a lawyer allows you to focus on what’s most important—your recovery—while they handle the legal heavy lifting. If any of the following scenarios sound familiar, it’s time to consider seeking legal advice for your automobile accident claim.

When Liability Is Unclear

After a crash, it’s not always obvious who was at fault. The other driver might tell a different story, or there may have been no witnesses. When liability is unclear, an insurance company will likely try to place as much blame on you as possible to reduce their payout. This is where an attorney becomes invaluable. They can investigate the accident, gather crucial evidence like traffic camera footage and cell phone records, and consult with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case that establishes fault. Trying to prove your side of the story alone can be an uphill battle, but a lawyer knows exactly what’s needed to demonstrate what really happened.

When You Have Serious Injuries

If you’ve suffered serious injuries, hiring a lawyer is crucial. Significant injuries often lead to extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and time away from work. An attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for all of it—not just your current medical bills, but also future healthcare costs, lost wages, and your pain and suffering. They work with medical experts to understand the full impact of your injuries on your life and calculate the true value of your claim. This prevents you from accepting a settlement that falls short of covering your long-term needs, giving you the financial security to focus on healing.

When the Insurance Company Is Disputing Your Claim

Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to protect their bottom line. This means they often look for ways to deny or devalue legitimate claims. If the insurance company is disputing your claim, delaying payment, or offering a low-ball settlement that barely covers your expenses, it’s a major red flag. An attorney can step in and handle all communications and negotiations on your behalf. They know how to counter the adjuster’s tactics and will fight for a fair settlement. If the insurance company still refuses to be reasonable, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court.

The Benefits of an Attorney vs. Representing Yourself

While you have the right to represent yourself, the legal system is complex and unforgiving. An experienced personal injury attorney can manage the entire process, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible. They handle the deadlines, the paperwork, and the stressful phone calls so you don’t have to. Having a dedicated advocate on your side not only levels the playing field against powerful insurance companies but also provides peace of mind. If you’re ready to get help, you can contact our office to discuss your case.

Your Next Steps and Legal Resources

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Understanding your options and knowing where to turn for help is the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve. Below are some key resources and actionable steps you can take to protect your rights and move forward with your claim in Missouri.

How to Find a Qualified Personal Injury Attorney

Deciding to hire a lawyer is a significant step. It’s often the right move if you’ve sustained serious injuries, are facing high medical bills, or feel the insurance company isn’t treating you fairly. When looking for representation, you want someone with specific experience in Missouri car accident cases. A qualified attorney will understand the nuances of state law, from proving fault to calculating damages. They can handle the complex negotiations for you, ensuring your focus remains on your recovery. Look for a firm that offers a client-centered approach and can clearly explain your legal options.

The Missouri Tort Victims’ Compensation Fund

Many people are unaware that Missouri has a specific fund to help those who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence. The Missouri Tort Victims’ Compensation Fund was created to provide financial assistance to individuals harmed in situations like car crashes. This fund can be a vital resource, especially in cases where the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured. It’s worth exploring whether your circumstances make you eligible for this support. An attorney can help you understand the application process and determine if this is a viable path for your situation.

Local Legal Aid Services

While local legal aid organizations provide invaluable services, they often focus on areas outside of personal injury. The good news is that most personal injury attorneys, including our firm, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any legal fees unless you win your case. This structure makes expert legal help accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. It’s always wise to consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offer from an insurance company. A professional can help you understand the long-term costs of your injuries and fight for a settlement that truly covers your needs.

How to Take Action on Your Claim

Time is a critical factor in any car accident claim. In Missouri, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. While that may seem like a long time, building a strong case requires immediate action. Start by gathering all your documentation and evidence. It’s also important not to accept a quick settlement offer from an insurance company, as these initial offers are often far less than what your claim is actually worth. The best first step is to discuss your case with an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the other driver’s insurance company calls me for a statement? It’s best to be cautious. The other driver’s insurance adjuster is trained to protect their company’s interests, which often means finding ways to minimize your claim. You can politely decline to give a recorded statement until you’ve had the chance to understand your rights. Simply provide your basic contact information and state that you are not ready to discuss the details of the accident. This gives you time to focus on your recovery and consider speaking with an attorney first.

How is a value placed on something like “pain and suffering”? This is a common question because it’s not as straightforward as adding up medical bills. There isn’t a simple calculator for pain and suffering. Instead, its value is determined by looking at the overall impact the injuries have had on your life. Factors like the severity and permanence of your injury, the amount of medical treatment required, and how the injury affects your daily activities and emotional well-being are all considered to arrive at a fair figure.

What happens if the driver who hit me has no insurance or not enough to cover my expenses? This is a stressful situation, but you still have options. Your own auto insurance policy in Missouri is required to include uninsured motorist coverage. This specific coverage is designed to step in and pay for your injuries if you are hit by a driver who has no insurance. If the at-fault driver has insurance but their policy limits aren’t high enough to cover all your damages, you may be able to use your underinsured motorist coverage, if you have it.

Does filing a car accident claim automatically mean I will have to go to court? Not at all. In fact, the vast majority of car accident claims are settled out of court through negotiations between your attorney and the insurance company. A claim is simply the formal process of seeking compensation from the at-fault party’s insurer. A lawsuit is only filed if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement. The goal is always to reach a reasonable agreement without needing to go to trial.

I think I might have been a little bit at fault. Should I still bother filing a claim? Yes, you absolutely should. Missouri’s pure comparative negligence rule means you can still recover damages even if you were partially responsible for the accident. Your final compensation amount will simply be reduced by whatever percentage of fault is assigned to you. Insurance companies may try to place more blame on you than is fair, so it’s important to protect your right to the compensation you are owed.

How to Get Compensation for a Car Accident in MO