What is Missouri’s Car Accident Settlement Process?
Car accidents can be difficult to deal with. You have to talk to the insurance company and navigate the laws in Missouri to have a positive outcome for your case. This is why it’s more important than ever to have a trusted Missouri injury attorney by your side throughout the entire process. Let’s check out how the Missouri settlement process works and provide some insight into actionable steps for those of you navigating car accident claims throughout Missouri.
Understanding Missouri’s Fault-Based System
Missouri operates under an at-fault system, meaning that the party responsible for the damages is liable for compensation. This means that it is crucial to determine who is at fault for the accident, which can significantly impact the settlement process.
Determining Fault
Missouri uses the principle of comparative fault, meaning that accident victims can seek compensation even if they were partially at-fault for the accident. However, it is important to note that the amount of compensation they receive is reduced based on their degree of fault in the accident.
Insurance Requirements
Missouri law mandates all drivers to carry liability insurance with minimum coverage limits. These limits include $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 for property damage.
Initiating the Settlement Process
It is important to begin initiating the settlement process once the immediate aftermath of the accident has been addressed. This is a critical step towards seeking compensation for the damages,
Hire Legal Representation
It is critical to hire legal representation after a car accident in Missouri, as an attorney can help you to navigate the complexities of the legal system in Missouri and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
File an Insurance Claim
Once you have a trusted attorney to help you with your claim, it is important to submit your claim to the at-fault driver’s insurance company and include any relevant documentation and evidence to support your claim.
Evaluation and Negotiation
Once you submit your claim to the insurance company, they will assess your claim, and, based on the evidence at hand and the specifics of the accident, will offer you a settlement. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that the settlement covers all of your damages.
Consideration of Lawsuit
If negotiations fall through and do not provide an adequate settlement to cover expenses, it might be necessary to file a lawsuit to pursue compensation through litigation.
Factors Influencing Car Accident Settlements
There are quite a few factors to consider when determining the outcome of a car accident settlement in Missouri, and careful consideration and strategic thinking are required during negotiations.
Severity of Injuries
The settlement amount could be influenced by the severity of the accident, medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages due to not being able to work.
The extent and severity of injuries sustained in the accident significantly influence the settlement amount, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages due to inability to work.
Property Damage
Compensation for property damage, including vehicle repair or replacement costs, is a key component of car accident settlements.
Comparative Fault
Missouri operates under a comparative fault system, which takes into account each party’s degree of involvement in the accident. This could reduce the compensation if the claimant is found partially responsible for the accident.
Insurance Coverage Limits
It is important to note that the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage limits could significantly affect the maximum amount of compensation that is available when it comes time to settle. This is especially true if the damages exceed the policy limits.
Legal Considerations and Statute of Limitations
When filing suit for a personal injury case, it is critical to understand the legalities of car accident settlements in Missouri. This will help you to protect your rights and ensure that you file before the statute of limitations expires.
Statute of Limitations
Like most states, Missouri’s statute of limitations is typically five years from the date of the accident. Those involved in the accident must file suit before the five years expires, or they could face significant trouble when trying to obtain any compensation for their case.
Mediation and Arbitration
In some cases, parties might opt for alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration. This could help if you want to settle your car accident case in Missouri outside of court and expedite the entire settlement process, which reduces any legal costs.
Mutrux Firm is Here to Help You With Your Claim!
It can be extremely difficult to navigate the legal process on your own, especially when you are trying to recover from your injuries as well. This is why it is important to have a trusted Missouri personal injury lawyer by your side throughout the process. If you need a trusted attorney to help you recover the damages you are entitled to, get in touch with Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers today!
Our team of attorneys knows the legal system in Missouri and will help you throughout every step of the process, from the initial consultation to potential litigation, we have you covered every step of the way. Give us a call at (888) 550-4026 or contact us here for more information. We look forward to helping you with your case.