Not all car accidents are equal, and neither are the injuries they cause. In Missouri, whether your injury is considered serious can impact everything from your settlement to your ability to file a lawsuit. So what exactly qualifies as a “serious injury” under Missouri law? Let’s break it down in plain terms.
Why “Serious Injury” Matters
In many car accident claims, the goal is to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. But the law draws a line between minor injuries and those considered serious.
That distinction can affect:
- Whether your case settles or goes to trial
- The amount of compensation you may be entitled to
- Whether you can pursue non-economic damages, such as emotional distress
If you’ve been injured, it’s important to know where your situation falls on that spectrum.
Missouri’s Definition of “Serious Injury”
There isn’t a single, one-size-fits-all legal definition of “serious injury” in Missouri car accident claims. However, in general, the term refers to injuries that result in:
- Permanent disfigurement
- Loss of a bodily function
- Long-term or permanent disability
- Significant limitations to a body system or organ
- Extended hospitalization or surgery
Missouri courts also look at how the injury affects your daily life. If it keeps you from working, driving, caring for your family, or managing basic daily tasks, it is more likely to be viewed as serious.
Common Types of Serious Injuries in Car Accidents
Every case is different, but some injuries are more commonly categorized as serious in Missouri:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These range from concussions to permanent cognitive damage. Even a mild TBI can cause memory loss, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spine can result in chronic pain, mobility loss, or paralysis.
- Multiple Fractures or Compound Breaks: A simple fracture may not meet the threshold, but multiple broken bones, especially those requiring surgery and long recovery, typically do.
- Severe Burns or Deep Lacerations: Scarring, disfigurement, and infections from burns or cuts can leave lasting impacts.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be visible but can be life-threatening and require significant treatment.
Insurance Companies Don’t Decide What Counts as Serious
Just because your injury doesn’t look dramatic doesn’t mean it isn’t disruptive or painful. Insurance companies often try to minimize claims to protect their bottom line.
That’s why strong medical documentation is so important. If you’re filing a claim, it’s essential to:
- See a doctor as soon as possible after the crash
- Follow all medical instructions and treatment plans
- Keep track of every doctor visit, prescription, and missed day of work
Your attorney can use this evidence to show how seriously the injury has affected your life, both physically and financially.
How Wegmann Law Firm Can Help
If you’ve suffered a serious injury in a Missouri car accident, you deserve more than a quick settlement. You deserve an attorney who will take the time to understand your story and fight for what you’re truly owed.
At Wegmann Law Firm, we advocate for the injured with skill, experience, and a commitment to results. We don’t let insurers decide what your pain is worth.
Contact Our Legal Team Today To Discuss Your Case
Not sure if your injury is considered serious? If your life has changed since the accident, that’s enough reason to speak with an attorney.Wegmann Law Firm is here to help you understand your options and protect your rights. Reach out today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovering what you’ve lost.
