Car accidents can be confusing, especially when both drivers share some blame. In Missouri, the law doesn’t stop you from getting compensation just because you were partly at fault. Instead, the state uses a rule called “pure comparative fault.”
What is pure comparative fault?
Missouri’s pure comparative fault system lets you recover damages even if you were mostly at fault. The amount you can receive gets reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 30% at fault and your damages totaled $10,000, you’d still get $7,000. That’s because 30% gets taken off your total.
How fault is determined
Fault is usually decided by looking at things like police reports, witness statements, photos, and video. Insurance companies and courts use this evidence to decide who caused what. If your case goes to court, a judge or jury assigns each party a percentage of blame. You can still win compensation even if you were 99% at fault.
Why your percentage matters
The percentage matters because it directly affects how much money you get. The more blame you carry, the less you recover. That’s why it’s important to gather solid evidence after a crash. Things like dashcam footage or eyewitness accounts can help show that the other driver was more at fault.
What to expect during the claims process
During the claims process, you’ll likely deal with insurance adjusters trying to lower your share of the payout. They may say you were more at fault than you really were. That’s why being prepared with evidence helps support your side of the story and protect your share of the claim.
Understanding Missouri’s comparative fault law helps you know what to expect after a car accident. This law doesn’t stop you from getting money for your injuries, it just makes sure the amount fits your level of responsibility.
