Accidents & Injuries in Missouri
Key Missouri Law
Missouri Revised Statutes Section 516.120
Missouri imposes a five-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. An injured party must generally file their lawsuit within five years of the date of the accident or injury.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Missouri
Missouri Agencies & Resources
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance
Regulates insurance companies in Missouri and handles consumer complaints about auto and accident insurance.
Missouri Department of Revenue — Motor Vehicle Bureau
Manages Missouri vehicle titles, registrations, driver licensing, and accident-related records.
The Missouri Bar — Lawyer Referral Service
Provides referrals to Missouri-licensed personal injury attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Missouri?
Missouri Revised Statutes Section 516.120 provides a five-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims — longer than most states. However, government entity claims may have shorter notice and filing deadlines under the Missouri Sovereign Immunity Act. Despite the longer period, prompt action preserves evidence and protects your claim.
How does Missouri's pure comparative fault rule work?
Under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 537.765, Missouri uses pure comparative fault. Even if you are 90% at fault for an accident, you may still recover 10% of your damages. There is no threshold that bars recovery based on fault percentage, making Missouri more favorable to partially at-fault plaintiffs than modified comparative fault states.
Is Missouri a no-fault auto insurance state?
No. Missouri is a traditional tort (fault-based) state. The at-fault driver's liability insurance is responsible for compensating injured parties. Missouri does not require mandatory personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.
Are there caps on damages in Missouri accident cases?
Missouri does not impose a general cap on compensatory damages in most personal injury accident cases. However, non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases are capped at $2 million under MRS 538.210. Government entity claims under sovereign immunity may also be subject to recovery limitations. Punitive damages are subject to Missouri constitutional and statutory review.
Related Accidents & Injuries Scenarios
Can I sue for a rear-end car crash?
Understanding your options after being rear-ended in a car accident.
Can I sue for a slip and fall in a store?
Understanding premises liability when injured in a slip and fall accident at a business.
Can I sue for injuries from a motorcycle accident?
Legal options for motorcyclists injured in accidents caused by other drivers or road conditions.
Can I sue for injuries from a bicycle-vehicle collision?
Legal options for cyclists injured in collisions with motor vehicles or due to dangerous road conditions.
Have a Specific Situation in Missouri?
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