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Missouri Local Accident Resources

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Charities That Local Accident Reports Supports

Currently, the majority of auto accidents in the United States are caused by drivers who are negligent while behind the wheel. According to information provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 94% of reported car crashes in the United States are caused by negligent driving.

Missouri Local Accident Resources

Was Someone You Love Involved in a Fatal Car Accident in Missouri?

In the wake of an accident, we here at Local Accident Reports understand the whirlwind of questions and concerns that you may currently have, particularly if you have just lost a cherished member of your family. We want you to know that you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you during this difficult time. Local Accident Reports aims to connect people who have been injured or lost a loved one with the help they need, whether that is financial assistance, counseling, or legal representation.

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An Overview of Wrongful Death Cases in Missouri

The Missouri Department of Transportation reported 720 car fatalities for the year as of September 2023. Each of these incidents is a profound loss. The aftermath leaves families grappling with more than grief. There’s also a potential case of wrongful death.

Wrongful death claims arise when someone dies due to the fault of another person or entity. Under Missouri law, the deceased’s family or estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.080 (2021).

These tragedies aren’t limited to Missouri. Across the U.S., car crashes led to 42,939 deaths in 2021, per the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. Each of these losses could open the door to a wrongful death claim, largely because most motor vehicle accidents are due to the negligence of another and therefore preventable.

Local Accident Reports offers a legal pathway for families nationwide. No matter where the fatal crash happens, our local attorneys can help you. You have the right to seek justice and compensation for your loss.

Missouri’s wrongful death lawsuits provide legal remedies for grieving families. These claims are a crucial step towards closure. The law gives you the power to hold the responsible parties accountable and get the financial relief you need after enduring the loss of a contributing member of your family. You deserve some measure of peace after a devastating loss. Call 888-657-1460 when you’re ready to speak to an attorney.

Local Accident Reports is passionate about connecting those in need after a tragic accident with the best resources for your area. Below, we have outlined everything that is available to you in your local community.

What are the Most Common Types of Wrongful Death Claims in Missouri?

Fatal accidents shatter lives in mere moments. Wrongful death claims often emerge from these catastrophic events. While car crashes are the most common type of fatal incident that results in a wrongful death claim, there are others as well, such as:

  • Medical Malpractice: Death occurs due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, such as misdiagnosis, surgical errors, improper treatment, or medication errors.
  • Workplace Accidents: Fatalities occur due to unsafe working conditions, lack of safety equipment, or negligence.
  • Product Liability: Defective or dangerous products, such as faulty machinery, unsafe toys, or harmful pharmaceuticals, cause death.
  • Premises Liability: Fatalities from slip and fall accidents, inadequate security, or unsafe property conditions.
  • Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect: Inadequate care, abuse, or neglect in elder care facilities resulting in death.

In one recent year, Missouri’s fourth leading cause of death was unintentional injury. This category includes motor vehicle accidents, with a total of 1,031 fatalities that year. These roadway disasters serve as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life. Filing a wrongful death lawsuit can help you pursue justice in the face of loss. While no amount of money can ever reverse this terrible event, it can go a long way toward reducing the ongoing financial burden your family may be facing. You should strongly consider filing a wrongful death claim if you believe your loved one’s death was someone else’s fault, even partially.

In the wake of a tragic car accident, the path to healing often intersects with the pursuit of justice. Missouri law grants surviving family members the right to take legal action (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.080 (2021). Here’s who can legally file a wrongful death lawsuit:

  • Spouse of the deceased
  • Children (including adopted)
  • Parents of the deceased (natural and adoptive)

The aftermath of a fatal car accident is a taxing journey. Missouri law ensures a victim’s family is not left with nothing after being harmed by the negligence of someone else. If your loved one recently passed away in a car wreck, you may have options, and you should pursue them when possible. It may be the best way to avoid serious financial strain as you attempt to navigate the aftermath of your loss.

The state’s circuit courts handle wrongful death claims. There are 46 of these courts divided into civil and criminal divisions. A wrongful death falls under civil law. The surviving family must file a claim in civil court.

The location of the fatal car crash determines the jurisdiction of your claim. Suppose a husband died in a motor vehicle accident in Kansas City. His wife would file a claim at the Kansas City Courthouse. You can download a list of courthouse addresses. This document can guide you to the right place for filing your claim. If you get an attorney to represent you, they will take care of all court filings and appearances for you.

There’s a timeframe for taking legal action. Under Missouri law (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.100 (2021), families have a specific period for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. The law specifies a three-year window beginning from the date of the incident.

This window of time is the statute of limitations. You will likely not be able to collect compensation at all if you file after three years have passed.

The loss of a loved one in a car accident is an experience that words cannot describe. A wrongful death is an opportunity to seek justice. The legal process is complex, but the first steps you take can steer you on the right path.  

  • Get the Police Report: This document contains crucial accident information. It includes details of the involved parties, witness statements, and the officer’s observations. This report is evidence for building your wrongful death claim.
  • Seek Legal Counsel: Consult with a wrongful death lawyer A lawyer specializing in car accidents can offer specialized guidance. The attorney knows Missouri laws and can explain your rights and options.
  • Gather Evidence Early: Begin collecting any evidence related to the accident. This might include crash site photos, witness contact information, and medical records.

These initial steps lay the groundwork for your wrongful death claim. While no one wants to think about having to get involved in a legal matter while grieving the loss of a loved one, it could benefit you and your family and make it a little easier to move forward. Having the enormous weight of financial troubles on top of your grief is more than you should have to bear.

You must prove negligence in a wrongful death case. Missouri law outlines the four elements of this legal concept (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.080 (2021). Here’s what you must establish:

  • Duty of Care: Every driver must operate their vehicle according to traffic laws. For instance, a driver must stop at a red light.
  • Breach of Duty: If a driver runs a red light, they have breached their duty of care. This action violates traffic laws and demonstrates irresponsible driving behavior.
  • Causation: The breach of duty must cause an accident. For instance, the driver runs the red light and crashes into another vehicle.
  • Damages: The accident must result in quantifiable damages. In a wrongful death case, these damages range from medical expenses to funeral costs.

The deceased person’s loved one must provide evidence to prove negligence. A qualified attorney can help you gather and present the necessary evidence.

Missouri law provides a means for financial recovery through wrongful death claims. You may be able to collect several types of damages, as outlined below.

Economic Damages

These are quantifiable financial losses resulting from the death. Examples include:

  • Medical expenses incurred before death
  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Loss of the deceased’s expected earnings
  • Loss of benefits like pensions or medical coverage

Non-Economic Damages

These address the more intangible impacts of the loss. Examples include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of companionship, comfort, guidance, and support
  • Emotional distress

Punitive damages are sometimes available as well, but much less common. A court awards this compensation in cases of egregious wrongdoing. The purpose is to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar actions in the future. Punitive damages is something you may see in, for example, certain drunk driving cases.

The calculation of damages in a wrongful death case involves various factors, such as:

  • the deceased’s life expectancy
  • the deceased’s earning capacity
  • the deceased’s age
  • the deceased’s health
  • the surviving family member’s circumstances

Each case is unique, and the awarded amount reflects the specific impacts of the loss on the family. No amount of money can replace a loved one. These damages can provide a step toward financial stability and emotional closure.

Losing a loved one in a car accident is a profound tragedy. The aftermath can feel like a ball of confusion. A wrongful death attorney serves as a source of support and a valuable advocate. These legal professionals function as compassionate allies during one of life’s darkest moments. They can help you with the following:

Build Your Case

  • Gather Evidence: An attorney collects all evidence, from accident reports to witness statements.
  • Establish Negligence: They work to prove negligence. This process involves demonstrating how someone’s actions led to your loved one’s death.
  • Calculate Damages: Your attorney will calculate the damages. They will consider everything from medical expenses to loss of companionship.

Negotiate and Represent

  • Deal with Insurance Companies: Wrongful death attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies. They can help you avoid accepting an unfair settlement.
  • Represent You in Court: If the case goes to trial, your attorney will present a compelling case.

Understand Complex Legalities

  • Navigate Missouri Laws: Attorneys can ensure adherence to all procedural requirements.
  • Provide Legal Advice: Lawyers offer invaluable legal advice. They can help you understand your rights and the potential outcomes of your case.

A wrongful death attorney is more than a legal representative. They are a pivotal part of your support system throughout the legal proceedings.

One of the most pressing concerns is the duration of a wrongful death claim. Several factors influence the timeline. Consider the following to help set realistic expectations:

  • Complexity of the Case: Cases with clear liability resolve quicker than multi-party claims.
  • Amount of Evidence: The type of evidence can either speed up or prolong the process.
  • Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Settlement discussions can add time to the process.
  • Trials: Court trials can extend the timeline for cases.

It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact duration of wrongful death claims. These lawsuits can take several months to a few years to resolve. In the mean time, there may be other resources you can tap into to get help while you are waiting for your claim to resolve.

Missouri Local Accident Resources

Car Crashes in Missouri

The Show Me State has a vibrant population of 6,177,957 million. As with other states, particularly in the Midwest, Missourians take to the roads every day as a routine part of life. Unfortunately, some of these road trips end in tragedy. More than likely, there has been a fatal car accident in Missouri today and will be another tomorrow. We truly hope you will never need our services. But if tragedy strikes close to home, we are here for you.

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If you have lost a loved one in a motor vehicle crash, you need guidance, compassion, and practical support. The aftermath involves gut-wrenching emotions, legal battles, and financial challenges. Local Accident Reports is here to help you during this trying time. Our services include:

  • Free help obtaining police reports
  • Free consultations with top-notch lawyers
  • Real-time accident data from across the state
  • Legal, financial, and counseling resources

Were you affected by a fatal car accident in Missouri? Let us help you. Start by requesting your police report today. This simple yet crucial first step can lead you toward recovery and resolution.

Get an Official Copy of the Incident Police Report

Those injured in car accidents in Missouri can request a copy right here on this site. You will need a copy of the report when filing a wrongful death claim against negligent drivers so it’s imperative to get it as soon as you can.

Our local car accident lawyers can help you get a copy of your police accident report.

Get Financial Aid for Incidences Resulting from Criminal Activity

You may need help with fees related to legal representation or medical bills. If this is the case, consider the following resource:

  • Crime Victims Compensation Program – The Missouri Department of Public Safety sponsors this program. It provides resources for people victimized by accidents caused by criminal activity.

Get Counseling or Physical Therapy

Car accidents inflict terrible injuries on the victim’s body and mind. Losing a loved one in this manner is even worse. Do you need emotional support or counseling to cope? Visit the links below:

Get Support After a DUI-related Car Accident

If you, a loved one, or a friend suffered harm in a DUI incident, visit Mother Against Drunk Driving.

  • Missouri MADD – MADD provides support services for drunk-driving victims. Contact a MADD Victim Advocate, 24 hours a day, at 1-877-MADD-HELP (1-877-623-3435).

Discover How Missouri Works to Prevent Car Fatalities

  • Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law – The law took effect on August 28, 2023. This law aims to reduce distracted driving by prohibiting certain cell phone-related activities.
  • 2023 Highway Safety & Traffic Conference – The event addresses the progress of the Show-Me Zero highway safety plan. It also covers improvements in transportation systems management and operations (TSMO).
  • Show Me Zero – The highway safety plan seeks zero roadway fatalities and serious injuries.

Missouri Grief & Trauma Resources

Resources by State

Get the Support You Deserve in Your Time of Need

Are you dealing with the aftermath of a fatal car accident in Missouri? You’re faced with grief and overwhelmed by legal issues. Now, you don’t know where to start or whom to trust.

Local Accident Reports is here to help you. Contact us for a police report. You can also get a free consultation with a seasoned wrongful death attorney. We want to help you and your family navigate this challenging time.

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Motor Vehicle Crash Deaths by Road User Type and State

Car Occupants

Car Occupants

367

Pickup and SUV Occupants

Pickup and SUV Occupants

298

Large Truck Occupants

Large Truck Occupants

11

Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists

121

Pedestrians

Pedestrians

96

Bicyclists

Bicyclists

9

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