How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Missouri?

If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, understanding the timeline for filing a lawsuit is critical. Missouri law places strict deadlines on when you can take legal action. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to seek compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Missouri’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is five years from the date of the injury. This includes cases such as car accidents, slip and falls, and other incidents where negligence may have caused harm.

However, there are exceptions:

• Wrongful death claims: These generally must be filed within three years of the person’s death.
• Medical malpractice claims: Typically must be filed within two years of the alleged negligent act, though some exceptions may apply.
• Claims against government entities: These cases often have much shorter deadlines and may require special notice to be filed within a matter of months.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Even though Missouri allows five years in most cases, waiting too long can harm your case. Evidence may be lost, witnesses may become harder to locate, and memories may fade. The sooner you begin the legal process, the stronger your case may be.

How The Khouri Law Firm Can Help

At The Khouri Law Firm, we assist injured individuals and families in St. Louis in navigating the legal system. We can help you understand which deadlines apply to your case, gather evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve.