A serious car crash on I-64 or Kingshighway Boulevard can turn your daily life upside down in seconds. Between sudden doctor bills, missed work shifts, and car repair estimates, the financial pressure starts piling up fast. Knowing what types of money damages you can legally ask for under Missouri law helps you get every dollar you deserve.
Past and Future Medical Bills
Medical costs make up the biggest part of most car accident claims. You can ask for payment for every single doctor visit related to your crash injuries. This includes emergency room care, ambulance rides, x-rays, physical therapy sessions, surgery bills, and prescription medicines. If your doctor says you will need ongoing treatment or physical therapy next year, those future medical costs can be added to your claim as well.
Lost Wages and Income
When you are lying in a hospital bed or resting at home on doctor orders, you cannot earn a paycheck. You can claim compensation for all the money you lost while away from your job. This includes your regular hourly pay or salary, missed overtime opportunities, and used-up sick days or vacation time. If your injuries leave you disabled so you cannot do your old job anymore, you can ask for money to cover your reduced earning capacity.
Repairing or Replacing Your Vehicle
Property damage covers the cost to fix your damaged car or truck. If the repair shop says fixing your car costs more than what the car is worth, the insurance company declares it a total loss. When that happens, they must pay you the actual cash value of your car right before the crash occurred. You can also ask for payment for damaged personal items inside the car, like a broken phone or car seat.
Physical Pain and Emotional Suffering
Not all losses come with a receipt or an invoice. Car crashes cause real physical pain, sleepless nights, anxiety, and depression. Missouri law allows injured victims to request money for pain and suffering. This compensation covers physical discomfort, emotional stress, and the loss of enjoyment in daily life activities or family hobbies.
How St. Louis Accident Lawyers Help You Get Paid
Insurance companies rarely offer full value on their first attempt. Having an experienced attorney helps collect your pay stubs, organize your medical records, and negotiate aggressively on your behalf. To learn more about calculating your settlement value, talk with a trusted St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer today.