How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Missouri?
How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Missouri?
When you are injured because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to seek compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. However, the law sets strict deadlines for filing these claims, and missing them can prevent you from recovering damages. If you live in Missouri, it is important to understand how long you have to act after an accident.
ļ»æMissouri’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits is five years from the date of the injury. This means you must file your lawsuit within five years, or you risk losing your right to pursue compensation.
This deadline applies to many types of personal injury cases, including:
- Car accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents caused by third parties
- Product liability claims
Exceptions to the Rule
While five years is the standard time limit, there are some exceptions:
- Wrongful Death Claims: Missouri allows three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
- Claims Against Government Entities: If you are suing a city, county, or the state, the deadlines are much shorter, often requiring notice within just 90 days to one year.
- Discovery Rule: In rare cases, if the injury is not immediately discoverable, the statute of limitations may begin once the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Even though five years may seem like plenty of time, it is important to act quickly. Evidence can be lost, witnesses’ memories can fade, and building a strong case requires time. Speaking with an attorney soon after an accident helps ensure your rights are protected.
Get Legal Guidance in Clayton
At Allen Injury Law, LLC, we help injury victims in Clayton and the surrounding Missouri communities understand their rights and pursue fair compensation. If you have been hurt due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait until it’s too late to act.
