Car inspection laws in Missouri ensure that all vehicles on the road are in good condition. This not only helps the environment by reducing emissions released into the air, but it also protects everyone else on the road. Despite these inspections, however, car accidents still occur because some cars are not roadworthy.
If you have been in a collision that occurred because of another party’s negligence in St. Louis, MO, including driving a vehicle that was in disrepair, you may be able to file a claim. At Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, our St. Louis car accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact our law office for a free consultation at (314) 463-4173.
How Eason Car Accident And Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After A Car Accident In St. Louis, MO
A crash in St. Louis, Missouri can often mean dealing with injuries that can range from mild whiplash to traumatic brain injuries. In many cases, vehicle safety can play a key role in determining who is at fault.
At Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, our skilled team of St. Louis car accident attorneys can help by:
- Assessing your claim
- Investigating the car accident
- Collecting evidence to prove liability
- Calculating damages
- Communicating and negotiating with insurance companies
- Litigating, as needed
Because of our 21+ years of combined legal experience, we can pursue fair compensation in even the most complex cases. We have recovered millions of dollars in damages and have been recognized by reputable legal organizations, such as The National Trial Lawyers and the American Association for Justice.
Whether you’re dealing with injuries or believe improper vehicle maintenance caused your crash, contact our St. Louis personal injury lawyers for a free consultation.
Missouri Car Inspection Laws
Most vehicles in Missouri are required to undergo safety inspections every two years. Cars with even model years are inspected in even-numbered years, and odd models are inspected in odd-numbered years.
New residents in the state must register their vehicles, and that can only be done after getting a vehicle inspection. You can also only renew the registration after submitting a certificate stating that the car passed the assessment.
Other instances when you may need a vehicle inspection include before selling the car and if a police officer requires that you get an assessment after an accident. If you live in St. Louis, you must also get an emissions inspection before you can legally operate the vehicle.
There are a few exceptions to these laws. For example, vehicles that are 10 years old or less with fewer than 150,000 miles, have historic plates, or weigh over 26,000 pounds don’t need inspections. Low-speed vehicles, those sold for salvage, and trailers are also generally exempt.
What Do Safety Inspections Cover In Missouri?
The safety inspections in Missouri are meant to evaluate all of your vehicle’s components to ensure that they’re working as necessary. The inspection will typically examine the vehicle’s:
- Tires
- Fuel system
- Brake system
- Exhaust system
- Seat belts
- Windows and windshield
- Bumpers
- Steering mechanism
- Airbags
If any part of the car does not pass the inspection, you’re required to make the necessary repairs before you can legally drive it on the road. You’re allowed to drive it to the repair shop, but nowhere else.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol regulates these inspections. They’re usually inexpensive, with most of them being $12 for cars and trucks. Smog and emissions evaluations are $24 for all vehicles.
You can get the inspection done at any auto repair shop, but it’s often in your best interests to choose a mechanic who is a Missouri-recognized repair technician. They can offer the quality inspections you need to remain compliant with the law.
Contact Our St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation
Even when you ensure your car is safe for everyone on the road, accidents can still occur. Other people may not be as diligent about keeping their vehicles roadworthy, which could mean potentially dangerous cars are sharing the street with you. If a faulty vehicle malfunctions and you sustain injuries, the other party’s negligence makes it possible to file a claim.
To give yourself the best chance to recover fair compensation, turn to Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers. Because Missouri is an at-fault state for collisions, you must show that the other party was responsible, which can be challenging. Our St. Louis car accident attorneys can provide the legal support you need throughout the claims process.
Contact our team to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our lawyers today.