Imagine you’re driving home from work when suddenly, another car crashes into you. The accident wasn’t your fault, but now you’re facing medical bills and car repair costs. Who can you hold responsible? Unsurprisingly, drivers often take on the blame. However, they may not be the only ones you can sue for liability after a car accident.
Employers of the driver
When a driver causes an accident while on the job, you can potentially hold their employer liable. You may have a stronger case against the company if the driver involved in the accident was on the clock. You may hold their employer liable if the driver who caused your accident was:
- Making deliveries for their company
- Running a work-related errand
- Driving a company vehicle
Bars and liquor stores
Like many other states, Missouri has dram shop laws. These laws mean that if a bar or liquor store serves someone visibly drunk, and that person then causes an accident, you can hold the bar or liquor store liable for the damages.
Missouri laws also make it possible to sue bars or bartenders if they served alcohol to a minor who later caused a car accident. However, you have to prove that the establishment was aware of the driver’s intoxication or age.
Government agency or municipality
Sometimes, road conditions or faulty traffic signals may contribute to accidents. For example, potholes can cause you to lose control of the steering wheel and get into an accident, even if you weren’t speeding. Missouri laws allow you to sue the responsible government agency or entity responsible for maintaining the road.
Suing a government entity often involves special procedures and strict deadlines. It’s crucial to act quickly and seek legal advice if you believe a government agency played a role in your accident.
Hold all related parties responsible
While the at-fault driver is often the primary target of lawsuits after an accident, exploring all your options can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Remember, Missouri follows a “pure comparative fault” rule. You can recover damages even if you’re partially at fault. So, don’t hesitate to explore your legal options, even if you think you might have contributed to the accident in some way.
