Detailed Explanation
In Missouri, if you need to file a car accident lawsuit for your injuries or property damage, you need to do so within five years from the date the crash happened. This timeline is significantly shortened if a family member dies and you file a wrongful death lawsuit. In those cases, you have only three years from the date they died.
These deadlines are for filing lawsuits, not the claims made with the at-fault party's insurance company. You must submit an injury claim with the insurer more quickly, though a lawsuit may become necessary to seek the full extent of your damages.
Additionally, injured victims shouldn't forget that they have only 30 days to file the required report with the state of Missouri if property damage is $500 or more. Understanding how hiring a St. Louis car accident lawyer helps you meet critical deadlines is important, and The Bruning Law Firm is here to help St. Louis car accident victims understand their rights under Missouri personal injury law.
Related Considerations
What happens if I miss the 5-year deadline for my car accident in Missouri?
Missing that 5-year deadline will almost always mean that your lawsuit is dismissed. You will lose your right to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs. Whether you can still file after the statute expires depends on if you were incapacitated or a minor at the time of the crash, which can pause these time limits. Our St. Louis car accident attorneys can review your case and determine if these rare exceptions may apply.
Is there a shorter deadline if I was hit by a city or state vehicle?
Yes, the deadline shortens in Missouri if a government vehicle was involved. You have to provide written notice within 90 days of your intent to file a claim. Understanding the Missouri car accident statute of limitations and its exceptions is critical. Contacting our attorneys immediately ensures we can file before this time limit runs out.
What if I was a minor when the car accident happened?
There are special filing rules for minor car accident victims. When a victim is under the age of 18, Missouri's 5-year statute of limitations is paused until they turn 18. Learn more about how the statute of limitations applies to minors in Missouri. However, the sooner anyone injured in a Missouri car accident takes legal action, the better the potential to have the most favorable outcome.
Get Help: Contact The Bruning Law Firm
The Bruning Law Firm helps St. Louis car accident victims understand their rights under Missouri personal injury law and fights to get them maximum compensation for their injuries and losses. There is no fee unless we win, so schedule your free consultation to discuss your case with our St. Louis car accident filing deadline attorneys by calling (314) 735-8100.