Q: What Makes Liability Complicated After an Accident?

A: Liability may be unclear for several reasons, including:

Conflicting Stories

People involved in an accident often remember events differently. Stress, trauma, and bias can affect how witnesses and drivers recall what happened, leading to inconsistent or contradictory accounts.

Lack of Immediate Evidence

Accident scenes change quickly. Vehicles are moved, spills are cleaned, and hazardous conditions may be repaired before evidence can be documented. Without early investigation, important details can be lost.

Multiple Potential Defendants

Some accidents involve more than one party who may share responsibility. This is common in:

  • Multi-vehicle crashes

  • Commercial truck or delivery vehicle accidents

  • Injuries on commercial or business property

Identifying every potentially liable party is critical to maximizing recovery.

Comparative Fault Arguments

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system. This allows insurance companies to argue that you were partially responsible for your injuries—even when the evidence does not support that claim. Any percentage of fault assigned to you can reduce the compensation you receive.

For More Information:

Q: Why Isn’t Liability Always Clear in Missouri Personal Injury Cases?

Q: Liability Questions After an Accident? When to Contact a Missouri Injury Lawyer

Q: Why isn’t liability always obvious in an injury case?

McDuffey & Medcalf, LLC Missouri Personal Injury Lawyers

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This article is NOT intended to substitute for consultation with a lawyer, nor should you rely upon this article in place of a lawyer.  In most cases, consultations with a lawyer are free.  We strongly advise you discuss the facts of your case with any attorney.  The choice of an attorney is an important decision, and should not be based on this article alone.  Other lawyers might disagree with any opinions offered herein.