Car Accident Settlements in Missouri
If you have been involved in a car accident in Missouri, understanding how the state's personal injury laws affect your claim is essential. Missouri follows the pure comparative fault system, and you have 5 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit.
Car Accident Settlement Range in Missouri
Nationally, car accident settlements range from $5,000 to $100,000. In Missouri, settlement values are influenced by the state's fault rules, damage caps, and local jury tendencies.
Low
$5,000
Estimated
$20,000
High
$100,000
How Missouri Law Affects Your Car Accident Claim
Missouri uses pure comparative fault and has a 5-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases — one of the longest in the country. The Missouri Supreme Court struck down statutory caps on non-economic damages as unconstitutional, leaving the state without such caps. St. Louis and Kansas City are known for significant jury verdicts in personal injury and products liability cases.
Under Missouri's pure comparative fault system, your settlement may be affected if you share any responsibility for the accident. As a pure comparative fault state, you can recover damages even if you are mostly at fault, though your award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
Factors Affecting Car Accident Claims in Missouri
- ✓Severity and permanence of injuries
- ✓Degree of fault and negligence
- ✓Insurance policy limits of all parties
- ✓Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- ✓Medical expenses (past and future)
- ✓Pain and suffering documentation
- ✓Property damage extent
Common Car Accident Injuries
Relevant Missouri Statutes
- •Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120 (statute of limitations, 5 years)
- •Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.765 (pure comparative fault)
- •Mo. Rev. Stat. § 273.036 (dog bite strict liability)
Car Accident Claims in Missouri Cities
If your car accident occurred in Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia, Independence, or anywhere else in Missouri, the same state laws apply. Local court systems and jury pools can also influence settlement outcomes.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your state.