How Much Can You Expect from a Car Accident Settlement in Missouri?

Being involved in a car accident can be a life-changing experience, both physically and emotionally. On top of dealing with injuries and the stress of recovery, you might also face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage. That’s where a car accident settlement can help ease the financial burden. But how much should you expect, especially if the accident happened in Missouri?

This guide will help you understand the average car accident settlement amount, how settlements are calculated, and how Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers can help you get the compensation you deserve.

What’s the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Missouri?

The average settlement amount in Missouri varies depending on the severity of the accident.

Minor Accidents: Settlements typically range from $3,000 to $15,000. These are cases where injuries are minor, such as scrapes, bruises, or whiplash, and don’t require extensive medical treatment.

Moderate to Severe Accidents: For more serious cases involving hospitalizations or long-term injuries, payouts can reach much higher amounts, often exceeding the national average of $37,000.

Each settlement is unique, and factors such as the extent of injuries, property damage, and fault play a significant role in determining the final amount.

Who Pays for Medical Bills After a Car Accident in Missouri?

Missouri operates under an at-fault insurance system, which means the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering medical expenses and damages. In addition, Missouri drivers can opt for medical payments coverage (MedPay)—a no-fault insurance option that offers added protection.

Key Features of MedPay:

Covers medical bills regardless of fault: MedPay provides financial assistance for medical expenses, even if you were responsible for the accident.
Payouts go directly to you: Unlike standard insurance, MedPay benefits are paid directly to you rather than your healthcare providers.

If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage—a requirement under Missouri law—can step in to help cover the costs.

Key Factors That Influence Car Accident Settlements

No two car accidents are the same, and several elements can influence the amount you receive in a settlement. Here are the most important ones to keep in mind:

Severity of Injuries

The more serious the injuries, the higher the settlement. For instance:

Minor injuries: Such as whiplash or minor bruises, result in lower payouts, typically in the $3,000 to $15,000 range.

Severe injuries: Life-altering injuries, such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries, often lead to settlements well above $100,000 due to the long-term medical expenses and loss of quality of life.

Fault and Liability

Missouri operates under a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you share part of the fault for the accident. However, your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault in an accident that results in a $50,000 settlement, you would receive $40,000.

Property Damage

The extent of damage to your vehicle and any personal property inside can also influence the settlement. Cases involving high-value or commercial vehicles often result in higher payouts.

Insurance Policies

The amount you can recover largely depends on the at-fault party’s insurance policy limits. In Missouri, the minimum required liability coverage is:

$25,000 per person for bodily injury

$50,000 per accident for bodily injury

$25,000 for property damage

Unfortunately, these limits may not fully cover all damages in a severe accident. That’s why having uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is critical.

Lost Wages and Pain and Suffering

If you’ve missed work due to the accident, you may be compensated for lost wages. Additionally, damages for pain and suffering, such as emotional distress and diminished quality of life, can significantly increase your settlement amount.

How Are Settlements Calculated?

Settlements are typically calculated by assessing both economic damages (like medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs) and non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering).

Here’s a simplified formula:

Total Settlement = Economic Damages + (Multiplier × Non-Economic Damages)

The multiplier is usually between 1.5 and 5, depending on the severity of your injuries. For example:

A minor injury case may use a multiplier of 1.5.

A severe injury case, such as one involving permanent disability, may use a multiplier of 4 or 5.

Check Reputation and Credentials

A lawyer’s reputation is a strong indicator of their ability to handle your case effectively. You want a car accident lawyer respected in the legal community with a history of satisfied clients. One way to gauge a lawyer’s reputation is by reading online reviews or asking for client testimonials.

Tyson Mutrux has built a solid reputation as one of Missouri’s top personal injury lawyers. He has a 10.0 Superb rating on Avvo, which reflects his exceptional standing in personal injury law, particularly in car accident cases. Additionally, he was recognized by Expertise in 2020 as one of the Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in St. Louis, and he has earned a spot in The National Trial Lawyers’ “Top 40 Under 40” for his outstanding work. His clients often highlight his attention to detail, strong communication, and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes, as seen in his numerous positive Google reviews.

Why Work with a Car Accident Lawyer?

Handling a car accident settlement on your own can be difficult. Insurance companies often attempt to reduce payouts, leaving you with less compensation than you deserve. This is where the dedicated attorneys at Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers can assist you.

Here’s How We Help:

Free Case Investigation: We review your case at no cost and explain your available options.
Proving Liability: Our team collects evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a strong case.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: We communicate directly with insurers to secure a fair settlement for you.
Maximizing Compensation: We pursue every dollar you deserve, including lost wages and compensation for pain and suffering.
Taking Your Case to Trial: If needed, we represent you in court to achieve the best possible result.

Why Choose Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers?

At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. With years of experience helping accident victims in Missouri, our dedicated team is committed to getting you the compensation you deserve.

Don’t let an accident define your future. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal work while you focus on healing.

How Much Can You Expect from a Car Accident Settlement in Missouri?

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