Missouri Insurance Requirements / Claims

Wiley & Terrell provides trustworthy, aggressive legal representation to auto and trucking accident victims. Our auto / truck accident lawyers — serving Springfield, Columbia, and Jefferson City, Missouri — are well versed in state insurance requirements and know how to handle insurance claims. Below is an overview of the Missouri insurance requirements for drivers as well as a guide of what to do (and not do) when filing an insurance claim. Insurance companies will work to minimize your claim, so put the experienced auto and truck accident lawyers of Wiley & Terrell in your corner. We can help you get the compensation you deserve.

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Proof of Financial Responsibility

Even the most cautious driver can be involved in an auto accident. In fact, statistics indicate that most people will be involved in at least one motor vehicle accident in their lifetime. For this reason the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) requires all residents who wish to register their vehicle to present proof of financial responsibility. Acceptable documentation includes:

  • A current insurance identification card containing:
    • The name and address of the insurance company
    • Your name and policy number
    • The effective dates of coverage
    • A description of the vehicle being insured
  • A motor vehicle liability insurance policy, insurance binder, or receipt indicating policy information
  • A self-insured identification card, issued by the Missouri DOR
  • A financial responsibility card, issued by the Missouri DOR

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Missouri's Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements

The following are the minimum amounts for motor vehicle insurance coverage as required by state law. Your needs may be greater. Many drivers purchase optional collision and comprehensive coverage for their vehicles. If you have any questions, contact our auto and truck accident lawyers — serving Springfield, Columbia, and Missouri clients statewide — or the Department of Revenue.

Liability

  • $25,000 for one person injured in an accident
  • $50,000 for all injuries in one accident
  • $10,000 property damage for one accident

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

  • $25,000 for one person injured in an accident
  • $50,000 for all injuries in one accident

The Missouri DOR may suspend your driving privileges for up to one year if you fail to maintain valid auto insurance coverage for your vehicle. To get your license back after a suspension, you'll need to pay a reinstatement fee and provide proof of a valid insurance policy for three years following the date of the suspension.

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SR-22 Filing

An SR-22 is a form that your insurance company must submit to the Missouri Department of Revenue's Motor Vehicle Bureau to prove that you have a valid auto insurance policy. This form is typically required for drivers who have had their license suspended as the result of or involvement in a motor vehicle accident.

For more information about Missouri insurance requirements, visit the state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or contact the attorneys at Wiley & Terrell. Our auto / truck accident lawyers — serving the Columbia and Springfield areas — know Missouri law. If you have been injured in a car accident or a truck accident, we can help you achieve full financial compensation for immediate and ongoing medical expenses, pain and suffering, damage to your vehicle, lost wages, and other hardships you are forced to suffer because of another driver's negligence.

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Insurance Claims — Dos and Don'ts

The Dos
▪ Take notes and pictures at the scene.
▪ Call your insurance company as soon as possible after an accident occurs.
▪ Be honest and forthcoming with your insurer. False statements may invalidate your claim.
▪ Read and understand your coverage before talking to your insurance agent. Pay particular attention to "Coverage" and "Exclusions" sections.
▪ Take detailed notes of all conversations with the insurance company. Get names, phone numbers, job titles, and all other information.
▪ Keep a record of all your accident-related expenses. Save receipts.
▪ Contact an experienced attorney.
The Don'ts
▪ Don't give any written or recorded statements to an insurer until you understand your coverage.
▪ Don't sign any releases or waivers without legal advice.
▪ Don't automatically accept estimates or appraisals given to you by your insurer.
▪ Don't delay. Many insurance policies contain time limits. Most policies allow only one year to bring legal action.
▪ Don't accept any check that says "final payment" unless you are ready to do so.
▪ Don't hide or misrepresent facts from your insurance agent. Your claim may be denied if you do.
▪ Don't go it alone. Insurance companies have a team of experts working to minimize your claim. You should too.

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Contact Our Auto / Truck Accident Lawyers — Columbia, Springfield, Missouri

For more information about Missouri's insurance regulations, or if you have been injured in an auto or truck accident, consult the lawyers at Wiley & Terrell — serving Springfield and Columbia, Missouri. Our experienced attorneys are familiar with state laws and know how to handle insurance companies. We can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our auto / truck accident lawyers to arrange a consultation and case evaluation.

If you have been injured in an auto or truck accident, contact our lawyers — serving Springfield and Columbia, Missouri — and arrange a case consultation. We are experienced and have achieved significant verdicts and settlements for our clients.






Wiley & Terrell Law Office, L.L.C.

Crane Office
105 Cortney Lane
Crane, Missouri 65633

Phone: (866) 383-7684
Fax: (417) 723-5686