Missouri uses a pure comparative fault system to determine liability in car accidents and other personal injury cases. Under this system, fault can be shared between multiple parties involved in a collision. Even if a driver is partially responsible for an accident, they may still recover compensation—but the amount is reduced according to their percentage of fault.
How Fault Is Determined
Fault is assigned based on the circumstances of the accident. Factors such as driving at an excessive speed, not giving the right of way, driving while distracted, and bad weather conditions are taken into account. To illustrate, in case of a rear-end collision involving two cars, if one driver was speeding while the other driver was not maintaining a safe distance, both of them may be allocated a share of the blame. These percentages have a direct influence on the way the damages are computed.
Calculating Compensation Under Comparative Fault
In Missouri, compensation is reduced by the injured party's share of fault. For instance, if a driver suffers $10,000 in damages but is found to be 20% at fault, their recovery would be $8,000. This system ensures that all parties' responsibility is fairly reflected in the settlement while still allowing partially at-fault drivers to seek compensation for their injuries.
Why Comparative Fault Matters for Accident Claims
Understanding Missouri's pure comparative fault system is critical for anyone pursuing an accident claim. Insurance companies may attempt to assign higher fault to reduce payouts. An accurate assessment of fault is necessary to ensure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Really, in complicated situations, particularly when there number is affected by several drivers, or there are some external factors such as the weather, a car crash that caused the accident is by far the hardest to identify.
How Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. Can Help
Navigating comparative fault rules and negotiating with insurance companies requires experience and expertise. Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. is the one to figure out how the client can get the maximum amount of money from the insurance company in the right way. The staff thoroughly researches the accident, collects the evidence, and takes care of the negotiations to ensure the victims' rights. They help you even if you are the one who made a mistake in a minor part. In this case, Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. will still get you the money you are entitled to.
Protecting Your Rights in Missouri
Missouri's system of pure comparative fault can be tricky; however, knowing it is a must for the injured parties in a car accident. First, you must ensure that the accident documentation is done correctly and accurately. Then, you should look for a doctor to get the medical help you need, and finally, a lawyer can help you in the shared liability system. With guidance from Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., injured drivers can ensure their case is handled correctly and that their recovery reflects the actual circumstances of the accident.