2025 is almost here, and if you’ve been injured in an accident in Missouri, it’s crucial to know what’s going on with the state’s personal injury laws! Personal injury law can sound like a bunch of legal mumbo jumbo, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back with a simple breakdown of the must-know rules. Whether you’ve had a car accident, slipped in a grocery store, or hurt yourself on the job, understanding your rights and how the law works will help you make sure you’re not left out in the cold when it comes to getting the compensation you deserve.
At The S.E. Farris Law Firm in St. Louis, MO, we’re here to help you navigate all the twists and turns of personal injury law. So, grab your coffee (or your lawyer!), and let’s dive in!
The Statute of Limitations: Don’t Let Time Slip Away!
The clock is ticking! In Missouri, you’ve got 5 years to file a personal injury claim (after that, you might as well be chasing ghosts). If you’re injured in an accident—whether it’s a car crash, a tumble at the mall, or something else—you have five whole years to file your lawsuit. Sounds like plenty of time, right? But hold your horses! Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, might not show up until later. So, get moving after an accident—talk to an attorney to make sure you don’t miss your window for justice!
Even if you’re unsure of the full extent of your injuries, don’t wait to reach out to a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help ensure you’re not left in the dust when that deadline looms.
The Blame Game
Uh-oh, looks like you’ve got a part to play in the accident. Don’t worry, Missouri has a little rule called comparative negligence. Basically, if you were partially at fault in the accident, your compensation gets reduced based on your percentage of blame.
Let’s say you were rear-ended in a car crash, but you were texting while driving. The court could say, “Hey, you’re 20% at fault for texting,” so your total payout would drop by 20%.
Just because you think you might have had a role in the accident doesn’t mean you’re totally out of luck! Always consult with a personal injury lawyer to make sure you’re not unfairly penalized.
Things Are Always Changing in Missouri Court Rulings
Personal injury law isn’t set in stone—it evolves. Recent court decisions have affected how certain cases are handled. For instance, there’s been more scrutiny around medical malpractice claims. If you’re pursuing a malpractice case, be ready to present some solid, clear evidence. Oh, and insurance companies? They’re under extra scrutiny now, too. Courts are cracking down on those bad faith practices where insurers deny or delay claims unfairly.
If you’re dealing with a tricky medical malpractice case or an insurance dispute, make sure your attorney is up to speed on these recent rulings. You don’t want to miss an opportunity because of a sneaky new ruling!
What to Do Right After a Car Accident or Slip-and-Fall
Did you get into a fender bender or had a tumble in the store? First off, take a deep breath. Then, follow these easy steps to make sure you’re setting yourself up for success:
For a Car Accident:
Safety first: Move to a safe spot and check for injuries (yours and others).
Call the cops: Always report it, even if it’s a fender bender.
Info exchange: Get names, insurance details, and driver’s license numbers from everyone involved.
Document it: Photos, photos, photos! Get shots of the scene, damage, and any injuries.
Get checked out: Even if you feel fine, it’s worth seeing a doctor. Injuries like whiplash can hide at first.
Talk to a lawyer: Don’t go at it alone! A lawyer can help you through the process.
For a Slip-and-Fall:
Report the fall: Tell the property owner or manager ASAP.
Document the hazard: Take photos of whatever caused you to slip (wet floor, uneven surface, etc.).
See a doctor: Even if you’re not in pain, it’s smart to get checked out.
Witnesses: If anyone saw your tumble, get their contact info!
Call a lawyer: If it’s a property owner’s fault, you’ll need legal help to prove negligence.
Pro Tip: Don’t sign anything from an insurance company or property owner until you talk to a lawyer. They might try to get you to settle for way less than you deserve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Like the Plague!
No one’s perfect, but when it comes to personal injury claims, a few common missteps can make your case trickier than it needs to be. Here’s what NOT to do:
Ignoring medical treatment: Skipping the doctor can harm your health and hurt your case.
Taking a lowball offer: Insurance companies love to offer a quick (and small) settlement. Don’t bite until you’ve spoken with a lawyer!
Forgetting evidence: Photos, witness statements, and reports are your golden ticket to proving your case.
Saying the wrong thing: Don’t admit fault! Insurance adjusters might twist your words.
Pro Tip: Before you accept any settlement or sign any papers, always talk to a personal injury lawyer. Your future self will thank you!
Let’s Do This 2025!
Missouri’s personal injury laws are always evolving, but ultimately, it’s all about protecting your rights and ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. From knowing the statute of limitations to understanding comparative negligence, every little detail can make a big difference.
If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t wait around! Contact The S.E. Farris Law Firm in St. Louis, MO to chat about your case. We’ve got the experience, the knowledge, and the fight to get you what you deserve.