Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Missouri for guidance specific to your situation.
Detailed Answer
If you were involved in an accident in Missouri and need to identify the at-fault driver’s insurer, follow these steps:
- Obtain the Police Crash Report. After most accidents, responding officers prepare a crash report that typically lists each driver’s insurance information. In Missouri, peace officers must file reports under RSMo §304.012. You can request a certified copy from the law enforcement agency or through the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s online portal.
- Request Records from the Department of Revenue. Missouri’s Department of Revenue (DOR) maintains accident abstracts and financial responsibility records. You can submit a request to DOR’s Records Unit for an “Abstract of Driving Record” or for crash reports that may note the insurer. Visit the DOR website or contact:
Missouri Department of Revenue
Records & Identification Unit
P.O. Box 100
Jefferson City, MO 65105 - Contact Your Own Insurer. If you have collision or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your insurer may investigate and identify the at-fault party’s insurer. Insurers often use the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) database and inter-company data to trace policies.
- Search Civil Court Filings. If litigation follows, the at-fault driver must disclose insurance information under Missouri Supreme Court Rule 57.03 (discovery). You can review pleadings or request a subpoena for the policy declaration page through the clerk of court in the county where the suit is filed.
- Check the Missouri Automobile Liability Security Fund. If the at-fault driver turns out to be uninsured, the Fund may handle claims or reimbursements. You can contact the Fund for information at www.moursf.org.
- Hire a Missouri Attorney. An attorney can issue formal discovery requests or subpoenas and navigate confidentiality and privacy laws. This ensures you get accurate, court-enforceable documentation of coverage.
Missouri law requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident (RSMo §303.040). Knowing the at-fault driver’s insurer helps you pursue reimbursement promptly and fully.
Helpful Hints
- Keep copies of all correspondence and reports.
- Act quickly—some records may be archived after a year.
- Verify the policy effective dates to confirm coverage at the accident time.
- Use certified mail when requesting documents to establish an official record.
- Consult with your insurer about next steps while you gather information.
- If the at-fault driver’s insurer denies coverage, inquire about uninsured motorist claims under your policy.