Automobile accidents have the potential to cause a great deal of damage, including devastating personal injuries. The at-fault driver is usually held financially responsible for the expenses relating to victims’ medical care or burial expenses in the event of death. While many people know that property damage is covered by auto insurance, some are unclear as to whether or not it also pays for medical costs.
Are Injuries Covered by Car Insurance?
Bodily injury liability coverage is a type of insurance coverage that relates to injuries or deaths suffered as a result of an automobile accident. It will be paid out to cover medical expenses or costs related to a funeral for accident victims.
It does not cover expenses related to injuries suffered by the at-fault party. If you are an at-fault driver who has suffered a personal injury, you may be able to utilize your personal health insurance or pay out of pocket for your medical care.
Most states have laws requiring drivers to carry minimum liability coverage, including bodily injury liability coverage and property damage insurance. Bodily injury refers to damage caused to people in an accident, while property damage coverage includes damage to vehicles and other personal property.
Missouri Car Insurance Coverage Requirements
Missouri law requires that drivers have car insurance with coverage offering the following minimums:
- Bodily Injuries: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident if there is more than one injured person in the same accident
- Property Damage: $10,000 minimum property damage
These minimums apply to any vehicle driven in the state of Missouri. In order to drive legally within the state, out-of-state drivers are required to hold insurance with these same minimums. It is important to understand your car insurance coverage requirements so you can make sure you are adequately protected in the event of an accident.
If you have questions about insurance coverage related to personal injuries suffered in an automobile accident, the Kansas City personal injury lawyers at Peterson & Associates, P.C.™ will be happy to assist you.