Car Accident Attorney in Jefferson County, MO

Many of us perceive our cars to be an extension of ourselves; they are essential to our day-to-day activities, and we tend to minimize the risk of an accident or issue. Sadly, however, car accidents are very much a part of life, and research suggests that fatalities are on the rise. Finding yourself involved in a crash can be traumatic and frightening, and you may be left with injuries which can change your entire life.

What Should I Do After a Missouri Auto Accident?

Missouri law states that it is a legal requirement to report an auto accident in almost all situations. There are two primary examples where reporting is a must under Missouri Revised Statute § 303.040:

Any accident which results in an injury, fatality, or property damage in excess of $500
Any accident with an uninsured driver, whether this occurs in a street, highway, or a parking lot. In the event that the uninsured driver is found to be at fault, they will be found liable for two offenses: negligence and driving without insurance
Any accident involving a parked car where the incident results in injury, fatality, or property damage over $500

An accident must be reported to the Missouri Department of Revenue within 30 days. If a police officer is not present at the scene, you should visit the nearest station. A skilled car accident attorney in Jefferson County can help you navigate this paperwork to ensure your rights are protected.

Can I File a Lawsuit for a Car Accident in Jefferson County?

In many cases, insurance covers your immediate costs. In some cases, however, the insurance company may refuse to pay out, or the sum offered may be inadequate to meet your medical requirements. This is when you should consult a car accident attorney Jefferson County residents trust to handle complex litigation.

In order to qualify for a claim, it must be proven that the actions of the other driver were negligent and that this negligence directly caused your injuries. Common examples include distracted driving or violating the “Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law,” which carries full citations beginning in 2025.

What is the Statute of Limitations for Auto Accidents in Missouri?

For most auto accidents in Missouri, you have five years from the date of the incident to file your case (RSMo § 516.120). However, if you are pursuing a wrongful death claim, the deadline is shorter—only three years from the date of death. Because evidence fades quickly, a car accident attorney in Jefferson County will typically recommend filing as early as possible.

Understanding Comparative Negligence

Missouri operates under the principle of pure comparative negligence. This means that even if you are partially at fault, you can still recover damages. However, your total compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 but found 10% responsible, your final recovery would be $90,000.

Which Damages Can Be Claimed?

There are a number of damages which can be claimed if the other party is found to be liable, including:

Medical bills (hospital stays, surgery, medication, and physical therapy)
Lost income and reduced future earning capacity
Pain and suffering or emotional distress
Vehicle repairs or replacement costs
Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

Total Loss Claims and the 80% Rule

In Missouri, a vehicle is considered a “total loss” if the cost of repairs plus the salvage value meets or exceeds 80% of its Actual Cash Value (ACV). Insurance companies often undervalue vehicles to reduce payouts. If your car has been totaled, a car accident attorney in Jefferson County can help you negotiate a fair settlement based on the true market value of your vehicle.

How Grafe & Batchelor P.C. Can Help

Insurance companies often use large legal teams to minimize your claim. At Grafe & Batchelor P.C., we level the playing field. We have a wealth of experience in dealing with car accidents across Missouri, and we work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to move forward in safety and security.

Contact a car accident attorney in Jefferson County that you can count on by calling (636) 933-9151 for a free consultation.