Laws vary from state to state. This is why your first thought in a car accident may be to question how a state determines fault. This can have an impact on how compensation is determined. Missouri is an at-fault state which means drivers are held accountable by their auto insurance providers and must hold a minimum amount of coverage. Take an in-depth look at Missouri’s at-fault system.
What Does No-Fault State Mean?
If you reside in a no-fault state, you likely hold Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which is meant to cover your injuries in a crash. These states require drivers to use their insurance to pay for damages and injuries regardless of who was responsible for the car accident. It is only after a person’s injuries exceed their no-fault coverage that they may pursue a claim from the other driver’s insurance policy.
What Does At-Fault State Mean?
In at-fault states, the at-fault driver is liable for any damage to victims who are injured in these scenarios. While this means drivers do not have to cover their own damages, it also means that they need to be able to prove the other party is responsible for causing the accident and the injuries. This process requires in-depth investigation to build a strong case and is almost always more successful with an experienced personal injury attorney.
While most car accidents are caused by another driver, there are several scenarios where multiple parties may be at fault. This can include the car manufacturer, rental car companies, repair shops, or even the government. Because every accident has its unique circumstances, it’s important to have an advocate on your side who is combing through every detail of the case.
When it comes to settlement, Missouri also practices comparative negligence. This can reduce the amount of settlement received based on the level of fault assigned to each party. Learn more about Missouri’s comparative fault system in our blog.
Missouri Car Insurance Requirements
Because Missouri goes by the at-fault system, whichever driver caused the crash is responsible for paying for the injuries and damages. These usually include economic damage like medical bills or property damage and non-economic damage such as pain and suffering.
Due to the way this works, Missouri requires every single driver to carry a certain amount of insurance coverage. According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, the required coverage for each driver is:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property.
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person in uninsured motorist coverage
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident in uninsured motorist coverage
DM Injury Law Attorneys are Your Expert Car Accident Advocates
Car accident claims can get tricky. Our team is here to ensure your rights are protected and that you feel supported throughout every step of the process. DM Injury Law attorneys are skilled at investigating, negotiating, and representing clients in court if necessary. We’re here to fight for justice on your behalf and help you get your life back on track. Contact our team today for a free consultation.