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Car accidents can rattle even the calmest of drivers. Whether it is a fender bender or a more serious crash, knowing what steps to take right after matters—especially with regard to reporting the accident. If you are asking yourself how long you have to report a car accident in St. Louis, Missouri, you are not alone. Knowing the timeline and your legal obligations can help you protect your rights and avoid unnecessary legal or financial trouble.
In Missouri, you have to report some car accidents to law enforcement. Under Missouri Revised Statutes § 303.040, if someone was hurt or killed, or if the property damage adds up to more than $500, you are legally required to file a report with the Missouri Department of Revenue. It does not matter who was at fault—this rule applies either way.
You have 30 days from the date of the crash to get that report filed. That’s the deadline set by the state. But keep in mind that there might be other timelines you need to watch depending on your insurance policy or if you are planning to file a claim.
Not every accident requires police involvement, but when officers do respond to the scene, they typically complete a report on your behalf. In St. Louis and other urban areas, police often arrive if there are injuries, significant damage, or traffic disruption.
If law enforcement does not show up—and the accident involves more than $500 in damage or any injuries—you’re still responsible for filing a report yourself. Failing to do so can lead to fines, license suspension, or complications with your insurance claim. When there is any uncertainty, it is always safer to report the accident to the appropriate authorities.
How long you have to report a car accident to your insurance provider depends on your policy. Most insurance companies recommend reporting accidents as soon as possible—some even require notification within 24 to 72 hours.
Even if you do not plan to file a claim, notifying your insurance company about the accident protects you if the other driver makes a claim or if delayed injuries surface later. If you wait too long, your insurer could deny your claim entirely.
The bottom line? Do not wait. Contact your insurance provider immediately, even if you believe the accident was minor.
Filing a car accident claim is not the same as reporting the crash to the police. They are two separate steps. Missouri does not have a law saying exactly when you have to file a claim, but most insurance companies expect you to do it within a few days. Review your policy. It may provide claim deadlines. The sooner you file, the better.
When you are ready to file, make sure you have everything you need. That includes the police report, photos of the damage, medical records if you were hurt, and any witness info. The more you can give them upfront, the smoother the process will usually go with your insurance adjuster.
If you are considering legal action after a crash, you must know Missouri’s statute of limitations.
This is the law that dictates the legal deadline to file a personal injury or property damage lawsuit. In Missouri, you have five years from the accident date to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage.
Waiting too long could permanently prevent you from recovering compensation, even if you have a strong case. This timeline is separate from reporting requirements and insurance claims—but it is just as important.
Failing to report a car accident can lead to serious consequences. The Missouri Department of Revenue may suspend your license, and your insurance company could deny coverage. You might also face legal penalties, including fines. If you were injured and did not report the crash, things can get even more complicated. Waiting too long makes it harder to gather evidence, prove what happened, and file a strong personal injury claim. Reporting the accident early helps protect your rights and strengthens your case.
Even if the accident seems minor, it could be more significant than you think. Some injuries take days to surface. Property damage may be more expensive than it first appears. And if the other driver files a claim against you, having documentation can protect you.
Reporting the accident creates an official paper trail, which can be a lifesaver if legal disputes arise.
Knowing what to do after a crash can be overwhelming, especially in the moment’s chaos—so here are some quick, practical tips for reporting a car accident in St. Louis.
If you are unsure about any step in the process, consulting with a car accident attorney can help you avoid mistakes that might cost you later.
Dealing with the reporting process after a car wreck can feel like a lot—especially if you are hurt, fighting with insurance, or unsure who is at fault. The team at Goldblatt + Singer has been helping people in St. Louis through situations like this for over 65 years. You do not have to sort it all out by yourself.
Reach out today or call (314) 231-4100 for a free consultation with one of our Missouri car accident lawyers. Knowing the deadline to report is just one piece of it. Let us help you take care of the rest.