In Missouri, personal injury laws govern legal disputes when one person suffers bodily harm as a result of another person’s negligence. Personal injury cases can arise from various events such as motor vehicle accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, and product liability. If you have suffered an injury due to someone else’s actions, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. This guide covers the types of personal injury cases, the statute of limitations, and the damages that you may recover under Missouri law.
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Types of Personal Injury Cases in Missouri
Personal injury claims fall under different categories depending on the circumstances surrounding the event. Some common types of personal injury cases in Missouri include:
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Car accidents are one of the most common causes of personal injury claims in Missouri. If you were injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The driver’s insurance company will typically cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
Slip and Fall Accidents
A slip and fall accident occurs when a person falls and sustains injuries while on someone else’s property. Property owners have a legal responsibility to ensure their premises are safe and free of hazards. If the property owner fails to take reasonable steps to prevent accidents, you may be eligible for compensation.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice occurs when health care professionals provide negligent or substandard care to patients, resulting in injury or death. Examples of medical malpractice include medication errors, surgical errors, and misdiagnosis. If you have suffered injury or illness due to medical malpractice, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the medical practitioner or facility.
Product Liability
Product liability lawsuits arise when a defective or dangerous product causes harm or injury. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe and free from defects. If you have been injured by a faulty product, you may be eligible for compensation.
Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Missouri
The statute of limitations refers to the legal deadline for filing a personal injury claim. In Missouri, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is five years from the date of the injury. However, if you are filing a claim against a government entity, the deadline is usually shorter, and you need to act quickly to preserve your rights. It’s critical to follow the statute of limitations since a failure to do so can result in the case being dismissed before it even begins.
Damages in Missouri Personal Injury Cases
The following are the types of damages that you may recover in personal injury lawsuits in Missouri:
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the actual expenses incurred as a result of the injury. For example, medical bills, lost wages, and property damage fall under economic damages.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are intangible losses that are more difficult to quantify. These include things such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious. The primary purpose of punitive damages is to punish the defendant and deter others from similar behavior.
Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have suffered a personal injury, it’s essential to hire a personal injury lawyer to represent you. Personal injury claims can be complex and require a thorough understanding of Missouri law. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights in court.
Conclusion
Personal injury laws in Missouri protect the rights of individuals who have suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence. If you are the victim of a personal injury incident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.