Resources for Victims and Families of Accidents in Missouri

From traffic crashes in St. Louis and Kansas City to rural farm accidents and workplace injuries across the state, Missouri residents face a wide range of risks every day. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, it’s important to know what to do next.

This guide shares essential Missouri accident victim resources to help you find medical help, file a police report, understand your legal rights, and access financial and emotional support after an injury or fatal accident.

Help for Injury Victims After Accidents in Missouri

Accidents can leave victims with serious injuries and overwhelming expenses. Whether the incident involved a vehicle, a fall, or something else, it’s important to seek immediate medical care and understand your right to compensation.

Emergency Care and Rehabilitation

Missouri offers quality medical care through trauma centers and rehab facilities, including:

• Barnes-Jewish Hospital (St. Louis) – Level I trauma center with full emergency services
• University Hospital (Columbia) – Part of MU Health Care, specializing in trauma and rehabilitation
• Research Medical Center (Kansas City) – Offers emergency care and orthopedic rehab
• Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital (Springfield) – Focused on stroke, spinal, and orthopedic recovery

You can also explore public health programs through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services at https://health.mo.gov

Missouri Personal Injury Laws

Missouri allows victims to file a claim against the at-fault party after most types of accidents. These personal injury claims may involve:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule. This means you can still receive compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident, but your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

You generally have five years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit.

Support for Families After Fatal Accidents in Missouri

When someone dies in an accident due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct, surviving family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim.

Grief Support and Resources

Missouri families coping with the loss of a loved one can access grief and counseling services, including:

• Annie’s Hope (St. Louis) – Support for grieving children and teens
• Crossroads Hospice Bereavement Services – Available statewide
• New Hope Grief Support (Kansas City) – Grief counseling for individuals and families
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for round-the-clock emotional support

Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Missouri

According to Missouri Revised Statutes § 537.080, the following parties may file a wrongful death claim:

• Spouse
• Children (biological or adopted)
• Parents
• Siblings (if no spouse, child, or parent survives)
• A court-appointed plaintiff if no eligible relatives exist

Damages can include:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of companionship and financial support
• Pain and suffering before death
• Medical expenses related to the injury

The statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits is three years from the date of death.

How to Request a Police Report After an Accident in Missouri

Accident and crash reports are important documents that can help support an insurance claim or legal case. They contain details such as the parties involved, road conditions, witness statements, and law enforcement observations.

Getting a Crash Report in Missouri

You can request your accident report through:

• Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP): Submit requests online at https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov
• Local Police Departments: Contact the records division of the department that handled the incident
• County Sheriff’s Offices: For crashes that happened in rural areas

You’ll need to provide:

• Date and location of the accident
• Names of the people involved
• A report number (if known)
• A small fee (usually around $5 to $10)

Reports are typically available within 7 to 10 business days.

Financial and Social Services for Missouri Accident Victims

Unexpected injuries and deaths can create major financial hardship. Missouri offers several support programs for families facing these challenges.

Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS)

DSS provides a range of assistance programs, including:

• MO HealthNet (Medicaid) – Health insurance for low-income residents
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Monthly cash assistance
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Food benefits
• Emergency Utility and Housing Help – Crisis assistance

Visit https://mydss.mo.gov to learn more or apply for help.

Missouri Crime Victim Compensation Program

If your injuries or the death of a loved one were caused by a crime—such as drunk driving or assault—you may qualify for compensation through the Missouri Crime Victim Compensation Program.

Covered costs may include:

• Medical and mental health care
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Lost wages or income
• Counseling services

Learn more at https://dps.mo.gov/dir/programs/cvc or call (573) 526-6006.

Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Missouri

What is the statute of limitations for injury claims?

In Missouri, you typically have five years to file a personal injury lawsuit and three years to file a wrongful death claim.

What if I was partly at fault for the accident?

Missouri’s pure comparative fault rule allows you to recover damages even if you were mostly at fault, but your award will be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.

Can I sue for pain and suffering in Missouri?

Yes. Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life are all recoverable in Missouri personal injury and wrongful death cases.

Do I need a police report to file a claim?

While not legally required, having an official police report can help prove fault, confirm facts, and strengthen both insurance and legal claims.

Should I talk to a lawyer after an accident?

Yes. An attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes, communicate with insurers, meet legal deadlines, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Call a Missouri Accident Attorney Today

Accidents and sudden loss can turn your life upside down. While nothing can undo the trauma or bring back a loved one, taking legal action may help your family recover financially and find closure.

A Missouri accident attorney can help you:

• Obtain your police or crash report
• File claims and lawsuits on time
• Investigate negligence or wrongdoing
• Maximize your compensation

You don’t have to face this process alone. Call a Missouri accident attorney today to get the support and representation you need to move forward.