Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Missouri

Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri

Kara McNabb • May 15, 2025

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Missouri

When you suffer an injury due to an accident, medical malpractice, or negligence, you may have the right to pursue legal action to receive compensation for your damages. However, it’s essential to understand that personal injury claims are subject to a time limit called the "statute of limitations." This time limit is crucial to know because if you wait too long to file your claim, you might lose your right to pursue legal action altogether. In Missouri, this time frame varies depending on the type of claim, so it’s important to be aware of the specific deadlines that apply to your case.

What is a Statute of Limitations?

The statute of limitations is a law that sets a maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings must be initiated. Once this time limit expires, the legal claim is typically barred from being pursued in court. The purpose of the statute of limitations is to ensure that claims are filed while evidence is still fresh, witnesses are available, and cases can be resolved efficiently.



In Missouri, personal injury claims must be filed within specific time limits depending on the nature of the injury. Let's take a closer look at the relevant statutes for various types of personal injury cases in Missouri.

Missouri Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims

General Personal Injury Claims: 5 Years

For most personal injury cases, such as those resulting from car accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, or general negligence, Missouri law gives you 5 years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. This 5-year period is outlined in Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 516.120. However, if a minor is injured, they have 5 years from the time they turn 18 before the clock starts ticking on their statute of limitations claim.



If you fail to file a claim within this timeframe, you generally lose the right to seek compensation for your injuries. This is why it’s critical to seek legal counsel as soon as possible after an injury to avoid missing the statute of limitations.

Medical Malpractice: 2 Years

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims is much shorter than for general personal injury claims. If you were injured due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, you have 2 years from the date of the injury (or from when you discovered the injury) to file your claim. This is outlined in Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 516.105.


It’s important to note that Missouri has a statute of repose for medical malpractice, which is a cap on how long you can wait before filing, even if you don’t discover the injury until later.


Under the statute of repose, you cannot file a medical malpractice claim more than 10 years after the date of the alleged negligent act or omission, regardless of when you discover the injury.

Product Liability Claims: 5 Years

If your injury was caused by a defective product, you generally have 5 years from the date of the injury to file a product liability lawsuit in Missouri. This is the same time limit as for general personal injury claims and is outlined in Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 516.120.


However, if you were injured by a defective product and the injury occurred due to a defect that wasn’t discovered immediately, the statute of limitations can be a bit more complicated. In some cases, the clock starts when the injury is discovered or should have been discovered, rather than when the injury occurred.

Wrongful Death Claims: 3 Years

If someone dies due to the negligence or wrongful act of another party, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is 3 years from the date of death. This is outlined in Missouri Revised Statutes, Section 537.100.


Wrongful death claims are typically filed by the surviving family members or the estate of the deceased. While 3 years might seem like a relatively short time, it’s important to act quickly to ensure that the claim is filed within the time limits.

Claims Against Government Entities: 90 Days to 1 Year

If your personal injury claim involves a government entity—such as a city, county, or state government—there are unique time restrictions. In most cases, you must notify the government entity within 90 days of the injury to inform them of your intention to file a lawsuit. After the notification, the statute of limitations for filing the actual lawsuit is typically 1 year from the date of the injury.


Because of the additional notification requirement and shorter time limits, it’s essential to work with an attorney if you are considering a claim against a government entity to ensure compliance with these strict deadlines.

What Happens if You Miss the Statute of Limitations?

If you fail to file your personal injury claim before the statute of limitations expires, you will likely lose your right to sue the responsible party for compensation. While there are a few rare exceptions to this rule, they are difficult to prove and typically apply in specific circumstances. For example, if the injured party was a minor or if the defendant left the state for a period of time, there may be some leniency in applying the statute of limitations.



In general, though, it’s important to treat the statute of limitations as a hard deadline. Missing it can mean you will not be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other damages.

Why It’s Important to Act Quickly

Personal injury cases can take time to investigate, gather evidence, and consult with medical professionals or experts. Additionally, defendants often attempt to challenge claims, which means having a clear and solid case is crucial. Waiting too long can prevent you from gathering key evidence or discovering important details that could support your case.



As soon as you are injured, it’s essential to begin the process of documenting your injury, obtaining medical treatment, and consulting with a personal injury lawyer. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the process, ensuring that your case is filed on time and that all necessary steps are taken to protect your rights.

Conclusion

The statute of limitations is an essential part of pursuing a personal injury claim in Missouri. Understanding the applicable time limits for your specific case will help you avoid missing important deadlines and ensure that you have the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries. Whether you’re dealing with a car accident, medical malpractice, product liability, or wrongful death, it’s crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible to ensure you don’t run out of time to file your claim.


If you have any questions or need guidance on your specific case, consulting with an experienced Missouri personal injury attorney like Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC is the best way to ensure that your rights are protected.


Contact us today to schedule a time to speak with our attorney about your particular situation.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.

Cole County Fatal Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
A 21-year-old Kansas City man died from injuries he suffered in a crash on Wednesday on Highway 54 at Monticello Road in Cole County, according to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The report says the man drove a 2011 Volkswagen Jetta southbound and was attempting to cross Highway 54. The report claims the man failed to yield to a 2014 Ford Edge – driven by a 79-year-old Crocker, Missouri, woman – and was hit. The man was brought to Capital Region Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The woman had serious injuries and was flown to University Hospital in Columbia. Both drivers wore seatbelts and both vehicles were totaled. Serious intersection crashes can leave completely innocent drivers facing life-altering injuries in a matter of seconds. When another motorist fails to yield and causes a high-impact collision, the not-at-fault driver often suffers significant physical trauma requiring emergency transport, hospitalization, and ongoing medical care. Even with seatbelts in use, these crashes can result in fractures, internal injuries, head trauma, and a long road to recovery—along with mounting medical bills and emotional distress. Insurance companies may still attempt to minimize claims or limit compensation, making experienced legal representation essential to protect your rights. If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver’s failure to yield, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your options and protect your claim. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol & KMIZ.

Morgan County Multi Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
An Owensville woman was hospitalized after a four-vehicle crash in Morgan County on Friday night. According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report, the crash occurred on U.S. 50 just before 10 p.m. The report says the 61-year-old was traveling west in a 2025 Nissan Altima, when the vehicle crossed the center of the road and side swiped a 2004 Honda Odessey. The Odessey had attempted to avoid the Altima, the report states. The Nissan then crashed into a 2025 Hyundai Elantra head-on. A fourth vehicle-- a 2013 Honda Accord-- also crashed into the Hyundai. The Owensville woman was taken to University Hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the Hyundai-- a 21-year-old California, Missouri man suffered moderate injuries in the crash. The two other drivers were not injured. According to the report, all four drivers were wearing their seatbelts when the crash occurred. Multi-vehicle crashes are often chaotic, violent events that leave innocent drivers seriously injured through no fault of their own. When one vehicle crosses the centerline, it can trigger a chain reaction of collisions, including sideswipes and head-on impacts, dramatically increasing the force of the crash and the severity of injuries. Victims in these situations frequently face hospitalization, extensive medical treatment, lost income, and a long recovery—despite doing everything right, including wearing a seatbelt and attempting to avoid the collision. Determining liability in a four-vehicle crash can be complex, and insurance companies may attempt to shift blame or minimize payouts. If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious multi-vehicle collision, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law , LLC today to discuss your options and protect your claim. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol & KMIZ.

Morgan County Pedestrian Injury

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
A man from Stover was hospitalized after an unknown vehicle struck him and left Friday morning on Route W, according to authorities. The Missouri State Highway Patrol said the 35-year-old was directing traffic south of Golden Beach Rd around 8 a.m., Feb. 20, when a vehicle hit him and fled the scene. The man sustained moderate injuries, and was transported to Lake Regional Hospital by Mid-Mo Ambulance. Information on the vehicle is currently unknown. Pedestrian crashes are among the most vulnerable and traumatic types of roadway incidents, often leaving victims with significant injuries and a long recovery ahead. When a driver strikes someone on foot—especially in a hit-and-run situation—the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. Even injuries initially described as “moderate” may require extensive medical treatment, time away from work, and ongoing care. If you or a loved one has been injured as a pedestrian due to a negligent or fleeing driver, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your options and protect your claim. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol & The Lake Expo.

Cole County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
A 61-year old Sunrise Beach man was injured on February 21, 2026 in a car crash in Cole County. The report says a 25-year old New Franklin man driving a 2019 Ford F150 crossed the path of the Sunrise Beach man, driving a 2023 Honda CRV, on US 54 at Rockport Hills Road. The Sunrise Beach man was treated by EMS on scene. Both drivers wore seatbelts. The Ford F150 was moderately damaged, but the 2023 Honda CRV had extensive damage. Crashes caused by a driver crossing into another vehicle’s path can leave innocent motorists dealing with painful injuries and significant vehicle damage in an instant. Even when a victim is treated at the scene rather than immediately transported to the hospital, symptoms can worsen in the hours and days that follow, leading to additional medical care, missed work, and unexpected expenses. The force of an impact strong enough to cause extensive damage to a vehicle often results in more than just temporary soreness. Insurance companies may attempt to downplay injuries that were initially treated on scene, making it important to take proactive steps to protect your claim. If you or a loved one has been injured because another driver failed to yield or crossed into your path, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your options and protect your claim. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Miller County Motorcycle Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
A 21-year-old motorcycle rider was seriously injured in a Tuesday afternoon crash on Route W in Miller County, just east of Lighthouse Road, according to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The report says the man rode his 2013 Harley Davidson 1200 Custom westbound when he crossed the centerline and hit the driver’s side of a 2023 Ford Expedition. The Ford was driven by a 67-year-old Lake Ozark man. The Eldon man did not wear a helmet and was brought to Lake Regional Hospital by ambulance, the report says. The driver of the Ford wore a seatbelt and had no reported injuries. The Harley was totaled, while the Ford had moderate damage, the report says. Motorcycle crashes often result in severe injuries due to the limited protection riders have compared to occupants of passenger vehicles. Collisions involving a motorcycle and a larger SUV or truck can leave riders facing extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost income, and long-term physical challenges. Even when questions arise about helmet use or fault, injured motorcyclists still have important legal rights, and liability is not always as straightforward as an initial crash report may suggest. Insurance companies frequently scrutinize motorcycle claims and attempt to limit payouts, making experienced legal guidance essential from the start. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your options and protect your claim. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol & KMIZ.

Camden County ATV Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
Three teens from Sunrise Beach went to the hospital after crashing a UTV on private property Sunday evening. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 14-year-old girl was driving a 2010 Polaris Ranger in a field on Old Sawmill Road when she made an abrupt turn, causing the vehicle to overturn around 6:16 p.m., Feb. 15. The driver and two occupants, including another 14-year-old girl and a 17-year-old boy, sustained minor injuries. None of them were reportedly wearing a safety device. An ambulance transported all three teens to Lake Regional Hospital. Accidents involving UTVs and other off-road vehicles can happen in an instant, especially when abrupt maneuvers lead to rollovers. Even when injuries are initially described as “minor,” young passengers may still face medical expenses, follow-up care, and lingering pain that affects school, sports, and daily activities. These incidents often raise important questions about supervision, safety devices, insurance coverage, and potential liability—particularly when they occur on private property. Insurance companies may attempt to downplay the seriousness of the injuries or shift responsibility, making it important to understand your legal rights from the beginning. If your child has been injured in a UTV or off-road vehicle accident, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your options and protect your claim. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol & The Lake Expo.

Osage County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
Two females were injured in a two-car crash on Osage County on February 14, 2026. The driver of a 2023 Ford Bronco was making a left turn out of a private drive and was struck by the driver of a 2019 GMC Terrain. The driver of the Ford Bronco was taken by Osage EMS to University Hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the GMC Terrain was taken by Osage EMS to Capital Region, also with minor injuries. Even what seem like “minor” injuries after a car crash can have lasting consequences. Symptoms such as neck stiffness, back pain, headaches, or numbness often do not fully appear until hours or even days later, and soft tissue injuries can worsen without proper medical evaluation and documentation. Insurance companies frequently attempt to minimize these claims, offering quick settlements that may not account for future treatment, lost wages, or long-term discomfort. An experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure your injuries are properly documented, your rights are protected, and you receive fair compensation for the full extent of your damages. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car crash—even if the injuries seem minor— contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your options and protect your claim. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Cooper County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
A Ballwin, Missouri woman was injured in a crash that shut down part of Interstate 70 in Cooper County Saturday evening. According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report, the 34-year-old was driving a 2022 Hyundai Elantra eastbound on I-70 around 4:30 p.m., west of the Missouri River Bridge. The car hydroplaned and hit a guardrail near mile marker 113. A 28-year-old Kansas man was also headed eastbound, driving a Kenworth T680 semi-truck, and hit the crashed car. The semi then jackknifed, flipped on its side and hit the concrete median barrier, the report says. The Missouri woman had moderate injuries and was taken to University Hospital by ambulance. The man was not hurt. The report says the vehicles were totaled, and both drivers were wearing seatbelts. Crashes involving hydroplaning, multi-vehicle impacts, and commercial semi-trucks can escalate in seconds and often result in serious, life-disrupting injuries. Even when injuries are described as “moderate,” victims may face significant medical treatment, missed work, ongoing pain, and uncertainty about their long-term recovery. Collisions that involve large commercial vehicles are especially complex, frequently requiring investigation into multiple drivers, companies, and insurance policies. Insurance carriers often move quickly to protect their own interests, making it critical for injured individuals to have experienced legal guidance from the outset. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash like this, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today to discuss your options and protect your claim. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KMIZ.

Why You Might Need a Guardian ad Litem in a Missouri Divorce

By Alyssa Finder • February 25, 2026
Divorce cases involving children can be especially complex and emotionally charged. When disputes arise over custody, visitation, or a child’s well-being, Missouri courts may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL) to help protect the child’s best interests. Understanding the role of a guardian ad litem—and why one might be appointed—can help parents better navigate the divorce process.  If you are facing a divorce involving minor children, knowing when and why a GAL may become involved is an important part of preparing your case.

Options for Missouri Business Owners to Collect Unpaid Debts

By Alyssa Finder • February 18, 2026
Running a business in Missouri often involves extending credit to customers, clients, or other businesses. While most customers pay their bills on time, unpaid debts can create significant cash flow issues and affect the overall health of your business. Fortunately, Missouri law provides several avenues for business owners to pursue collection of unpaid debts.  Understanding your options and the proper legal procedures can help you recover the money you are owed efficiently and effectively.