How long after a car accident can you claim injury?

The aftermath of a car accident can leave you with more questions than answers. From dealing with injuries and insurance companies to finding the right legal guidance, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. At Goldblatt + Singer, we help St. Louis residents take control of a difficult situation by providing experienced legal support and strategic counsel. If you’ve suffered physical injuries, financial losses, or emotional trauma due to a car crash, it’s vital to understand your legal options—and when you need to act. This blog will help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and the legal timelines involved and answer the question How long after car accident can you claim injury?

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What to do after a car accident?

If you’re in a car accident, the steps you take immediately afterward are crucial. They can significantly impact your health, safety, and any future legal claim. According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, you are legally required to stop and take the following actions:

• Move your vehicle only if it poses a danger to others; otherwise, wait for law enforcement
• Assist anyone injured, if it’s safe to do so
• Call the police and report the accident
• Use emergency warning tools (flares, flashlights, or reflectors) if the crash occurred at night or in bad weather
• Exchange information: names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, vehicle and plate numbers, insurance provider, and policy numbers
• Remain at the scene until law enforcement clears you to leave

In addition to these legal obligations, we recommend:

• Taking photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries
• Collecting witness names and contact information
• Seeking medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries manifest later
• Contacting a personal injury lawyer to understand your rights

What’s the statute of limitations for car accidents in Missouri?

In Missouri, you typically have five years to file a personal injury claim related to a car accident. This time frame has long allowed injured parties the chance to fully understand the impact of their injuries and pursue compensation. However, a significant change is coming. According to the Missouri Senate, starting August 28, 2025, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims will be reduced to two years for incidents occurring on or after that date.

This shift has serious implications for injury victims:

• If your injury occurred before August 28, 2025, you may still have up to five years to file a claim
• If your injury occurs on or after August 28, 2025, you will have only two years to act

Failing to act in time could permanently bar you from seeking compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. The new law also reduces the filing deadline for claims involving uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, which previously allowed up to ten years. Now, these too must be filed within two years. If you’ve been in an accident, the best time to consult an attorney is now—before time runs out.

Exceptions to the statute of limitations

Yes, there are exceptions to Missouri’s statute of limitations. Some unique circumstances may legally extend the filing deadline, depending on the situation and evidence presented:

• Minors: If the injured person was under the age of 18 at the time of the accident, Missouri law allows the statute of limitations to begin when they turn 18. This means the individual could potentially have until their 23rd birthday to file a personal injury claim. This extension acknowledges that minors may not have the capacity or resources to initiate legal proceedings.
• Mental incapacity: If an injured person is declared mentally incapacitated, the statute of limitations may be paused, or “tolled,” until they regain legal competence. This protection ensures that individuals who are not mentally capable of managing their legal affairs aren’t unfairly penalized by a running deadline.
• Discovery rule: In some rare instances, an injury might not be immediately apparent. For example, internal injuries or traumatic brain injuries may take time to show symptoms. If the injury was not reasonably discoverable at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations could start from the date the injury was diagnosed or reasonably should have been detected.

It’s crucial to talk to an attorney promptly if any of these situations apply, as proving an exception can be complex and requires experienced legal guidance.

People come to us in their hardest moments, often feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. Every case is personal—because behind every file is a family counting on justice. My job is to guide them through the process, fight for what’s fair, and help make a difficult time a little easier.

Jeffrey Singer

Free case consultation call us at (314) 936-3434

How to file a car accident claim?

Filing a claim begins with documentation and ends with compensation—when done correctly. Here’s how to move through the process:

1. Seek medical attention: Even minor injuries should be evaluated, as they can develop into more serious conditions
2. Notify your insurer: Most insurance companies require prompt notice of any accident
3. Gather evidence: Include police reports, medical records, accident scene photos, and any communication with the other driver or insurer
4. Contact a car accident attorney: A legal expert can evaluate your claim’s value and handle negotiations
5. File your claim: Your lawyer will assist with submitting paperwork, managing deadlines, and ensuring compliance with Missouri law

Important considerations:

• Avoid speaking to the at-fault driver’s insurance without legal counsel
• Don’t accept a quick settlement—it often undervalues your long-term damages
• Track all medical treatments, lost wages, and related expenses

Missouri Car Accident Victims:

• Missouri is a comparative fault state, meaning your compensation could be reduced if you’re partially at fault
• Approximately 94% of personal injury claims are settled out of court, so early legal action matters

Take the first step toward justice

At Goldblatt + Singer, we are committed to guiding St. Louis residents through the legal process with care and confidence. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait. Understanding how long after car accident can you claim injury is the first step, but taking timely action is what protects your rights.

Let’s help you build your case and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our legal team today at (314) 231-4100 for a free consultation.

Jeffrey Singer

Jeff Singer, Managing Partner at Goldblatt + Singer for over a decade, is a seasoned personal injury attorney known for his compassionate yet tough advocacy. He has resolved hundreds of cases and recovered millions for clients. Recognized as a Missouri Super Lawyer and Top 100 National Trial Lawyer, Jeff also serves on the Missouri Bar’s Chief Disciplinary Committee and the Board of Governors for the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys.

Free case consultation call us at (314) 936-3434