What types of damages can I receive for a Missouri personal injury claim?

If you have suffered a personal injury in Missouri, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your damages. The state of Missouri allows victims of negligence to seek financial compensation for their losses, pain, and suffering. In this article, we will explore the types of damages available in a Missouri personal injury claim.

Types of Damages

In a Missouri personal injury claim, there are two main types of damages: compensatory and punitive damages. Compensatory damages are intended to compensate an injured party for any expenses they incurred and any pain and suffering they endured as a result of the injury. Punitive damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Let’s take a closer look at each type of damage.

Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages are designed to make an injured party “whole” again by compensating them for their losses. These damages can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of consortium (loss of companionship), and other out-of-pocket expenses related to the injury. Depending on the severity of the injury and other factors, an injured party may be entitled to a substantial amount in compensatory damages.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer for their actions and deter similar conduct in the future. Under Missouri law, punitive damages can only be awarded when it is proven that the defendant acted with “reckless disregard or wanton neglect” for the safety and well-being of another person or property. Punitive damages are typically awarded in addition to compensatory damages and can be substantial depending on the nature of the case.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

In Missouri, an injured party has five years from the date of their injury to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for their losses. This is known as the statute of limitations. Once this time limit has expired, an injured party will be barred from recovering any compensation for their injuries even if they have suffered significant losses due to someone else’s negligence. It is important that if you have been injured in Missouri that you consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible so that you do not miss your chance to seek justice.

Conclusion

If you have been injured in Missouri due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to seek financial compensation for your losses. Under Missouri law, an injured party can recover both compensatory and punitive damages depending on the circumstances surrounding their injury. It is important to remember that there is a five-year time limit from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries so make sure you contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident occurs.