If you were hit while walking, it’s important to know that Missouri law sets a deadline for filing a claim. Under RSMo §516.120, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to take legal action, and missing this window could mean giving up your right to recover compensation.
However, if the crash resulted in a fatality, the rules are different—families typically have just three years to file a wrongful death claim.
Because these timelines can vary depending on the circumstances, it’s a good idea to speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. At Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers, our award winning Missouri pedestrian accident attorneys understand how overwhelming this process can be, and we’re here to help you understand your options and protect your rights every step of the way.
What Happens If You Don’t File Your Claim in Time?
If you wait too long to file, you may lose the chance to bring your claim at all. Courts in Missouri take deadlines seriously, and missing one—no matter the reason—can cost you the ability to seek compensation.
You Might Not Get to Sue
Once the statute runs out, the other party doesn’t have to negotiate. They can ask the court to throw out your case, and most judges will. That means no recovery for hospital bills, missed work, or anything else tied to the accident.
There are some rare exceptions—like if you were a minor at the time of the injury or the at-fault party left the state—but these are hard to prove.
Why Deadlines Matter
Building a strong claim takes time. You’ll need medical records, evidence from the scene, and possibly expert opinions. If you delay, some of that evidence could be lost. And if the other side pushes back, having a lawyer who had time to prepare your case matters.
Talk to a Lawyer Early
Even if you’re not sure about filing, it’s smart to speak with a skilled attorney from Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers soon after the accident. We can help make sure you meet all deadlines and don’t lose your chance to recover.
Additional Reasons Not To Delay Filing Your Claim
Even if you’re still within the statute of limitations, waiting too long to file your case can create problems you might not see coming.
- You might find out new information later: Sometimes after a case is filed, people learn more about what really happened. If you figure out someone else played a role or find out something important was left out, it might be too late to change anything once the deadline passes.
- You could be blocked from adding claims or parties: If the statute runs out and you need to update the lawsuit—maybe fix a mistake or include a different person or business—you may not be allowed to. That can keep your case from moving forward the way it should.
- Filing earlier gives you more breathing room: Waiting until the last minute leaves no margin for error. If something goes wrong or takes longer than expected, you’re out of time.
- You don’t want to rush later: Getting started early means you and your lawyer can take the time to build the case right. No scrambling, no guesswork.
If you think you might have a claim, contact us today. We’re here to listen and help you figure out the next steps.
Assisting Victims of Pedestrian Accidents in Missouri Since 1990
For more than three decades, Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers has focused exclusively on helping injured Missourians recover after serious vehicle-related accidents—including those involving pedestrians. We understand how devastating these injuries can be, not just physically but financially and emotionally as well.
When you’re hit by a car, you’re at a major disadvantage. You’re up against insurance companies with teams of adjusters and lawyers, and their job is to pay you as little as possible. Our job is to level the playing field.
We’ve represented injured pedestrians all across Missouri. Whether the accident happened in a crosswalk, parking lot, or along the side of the road, we know how to investigate the scene, gather the right evidence, and build a case that clearly shows what happened—and who’s responsible. We also handle all communication with insurance companies so you don’t have to deal with their pressure tactics or tricks.
We take pride in giving personal, one-on-one support. At Beck & Beck, you’ll always know who’s handling your case and what’s being done to move it forward. If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Some of the cities in Missouri where we’ve helped victims of pedestrian accidents include St. Louis, Florissant, O’Fallon, Jefferson City, Independence, and more.
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