Understanding Liability: What It Means in a Missouri Personal Injury Case

When you’re injured in an accident, one of the first questions that comes up is: Who is liable?

In Missouri personal injury cases, liability determines who must compensate you for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Understanding how Missouri defines liability can help you know what to expect when pursuing a claim.

What Is Liability?

Liability means legal responsibility for causing an accident or injury. To hold someone liable in Missouri, you generally must prove:

1. Duty of care – The defendant had a legal obligation to act reasonably (e.g., safe driving, maintaining property, providing safe medical care).
2. Breach of duty – They failed to meet that obligation.
3. Causation – Their actions (or failure to act) caused your injury.
4. Damages – You suffered actual harm or losses.

For More Information:

What Is Considered a Personal Injury in Missouri?

Missouri Personal Injury Claim FAQ