Personal Injury Claim FAQs in Missouri: What You Need to Know
Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be considering a personal injury claim. Whether the incident involved a car crash, slip and fall, dog bite, or workplace accident, Missouri law provides a legal pathway for victims to recover compensation. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about personal injury claims in Missouri.
1. What qualifies as a personal injury case in Missouri?
A personal injury case arises when a person suffers harm due to someone else’s wrongful or negligent actions. Common examples include:
- Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents
- Premises liability (slip and falls)
- Medical malpractice
- Dog bites
- Defective products
- Workplace injuries (in some cases, separate from workers’ comp)
To succeed in a claim, you must prove that the other party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injury as a result.
2. How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Missouri?
Missouri has a five-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims (Missouri Revised Statutes § 516.120). This means you generally have five years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. However, different rules may apply:
- Medical malpractice: 2 years from the date of the alleged negligence
- Wrongful death: 3 years from the date of death
- Claims against government entities: You may need to file a notice within 90 days
Missing the deadline can permanently bar your claim.
3. How is fault determined in a Missouri personal injury case?
Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule. This means even if you’re partially at fault, you can still recover damages — your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you're awarded $100,000 but found 30% at fault, you would receive $70,000.
4. What types of damages can I recover?
In Missouri, injured parties may recover:
- Economic damages: Medical bills, lost wages, property damage
- Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages: In rare cases, if the defendant’s conduct was especially reckless or malicious
5. Do I need a lawyer to file a personal injury claim?
While you are not legally required to hire an attorney, it is highly recommended — especially for cases involving serious injury, insurance disputes, or complex liability. An experienced Missouri personal injury attorney can:
- Evaluate the strength of your claim
- Handle negotiations with insurers
- Help you avoid legal pitfalls
- Maximize your compensation
6. How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney in Missouri?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a
contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case or reach a settlement. Fees typically range from
33% to 40% of the recovery, depending on the complexity and whether the case goes to trial.
7. What should I do after a personal injury accident?
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the incident (e.g., to police, property owner, or employer)
- Document everything — photos, witness info, receipts, etc.
- Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters without legal advice
- Consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible
Final Thoughts
Navigating a personal injury claim in Missouri can be complex, but understanding your rights and obligations is the first step toward justice and fair compensation. If you’ve been injured, don’t wait—speak with a qualified attorney to evaluate your case and protect your future.
Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC specializes in personal injury law and has won millions of dollars for his clients during his 10+ year career. He has the knowledge, expertise and skills to help you achieve a fair outcome in your claim.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.
