- Missouri has laws for car insurance claims.crash image by hazel proudlove from Fotolia.com
Auto accidents can be a traumatizing experience for all involved. In addition to injuries, car damage and the loss of transportation, the insurance claims process can be extensive. The state of Missouri has laws and procedures for processing automotive insurance claims. - The state of Missouri has a "pure comparative fault" law, meaning drivers can have their insurance damages lowered by the percentage they are at fault. Under Missouri law, insurance agencies must investigate accidents and determine percentages of fault, according to regulations spelled out by the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration. Drivers can dispute their percentages of fault by contacting their insurance companies or filing suit in a state court.
- Under Missouri law, it is illegal to drive without automobile insurance. The state requires uninsured drivers to pay the amount of damages for which they are liable. The state Department of Insurance advises motorists involved in an accident with an uninsured driver to contact the Missouri Department of Revenue's Driver License Bureau to report the uninsured driver. The Department of Insurance also advises drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage and make an uninsured motorist claim with their insurance companies. Uninsured motorist coverage is not required under Missouri law.
- Insurance companies are required to pay 100 percent of an insurance claim, minus any deductible. Missouri law requires insurance companies to undertake a full accident investigation prior to paying or settling a claim. Drivers can contact the state Department of Insurance to investigate whether the insurance company did its due diligence in the claims process. However, the department cannot determine fault in an accident, and it advises drivers to file a lawsuit in state court or go through the insurance company's dispute resolution process.
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