Detailed Answer
Filing a personal injury claim in Missouri allows you to recover special damages, including reasonable travel expenses for medical appointments. Under Missouri law (RSMo §490.715), you may seek compensation for costs that are necessary and directly related to your injury.
Step 1: Document Your Travel
Create a travel log that records each trip’s date, purpose, origin, destination, miles driven, and transportation mode. Keep all receipts for gas, parking fees, tolls, public transit fares or rideshare services.
Step 2: Calculate Your Costs
Use the current IRS mileage rate (e.g., 65.5¢ per mile) or your actual out-of-pocket expenses. Visit www.irs.gov to verify the rate. Retain all related statements and invoices.
Step 3: Organize Supporting Records
Gather your travel log, receipts, medical appointment confirmations and any correspondence showing the necessity of each visit. Arrange them chronologically to match your treatment timeline.
Step 4: Include Travel Expenses in Your Demand
When submitting a demand letter, attach an itemized schedule of special damages, including travel expenses. Clearly label each entry and link it to specific medical treatments.
Step 5: Respond Thoroughly in Discovery
Produce your travel records and receipts in response to discovery requests. Authenticate them with sworn statements or testimony to establish credibility.
Step 6: Present Expenses at Mediation or Trial
At mediation or trial, use your organized exhibits and personal testimony to demonstrate that each trip was necessary for injury-related treatment. Highlight the direct connection between your injury, care and travel costs.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified Missouri attorney to discuss your specific situation.
Helpful Hints
- Use a notebook or smartphone app to log trips immediately.
- Save all receipts—even small ones add up.
- Ask your lawyer if non-standard costs (e.g., lodging) qualify.
- Review your itemized schedule with your attorney before settlement talks.
- Keep digital and hard-copy backups of all records.