Whether you are moving to the Show-Me State or are already a new resident, familiarizing yourself with car inspection laws in Missouri is essential if you hope to legally drive your vehicle in the state. For more information or help if you’ve been in an accident, reach out to Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers at (636) 519-0085.
Vehicles registered anywhere in Missouri need to undergo a safety inspection before they can be legally registered, and emissions testing may be required for some as well. In a city like St. Louis, Missouri, an unsafe vehicle with defective equipment can lead to a severe (or even fatal) car accident. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a St. Louis car accident lawyer.
How Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers Can Help After an Accident in St. Louis, MO
At Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers, we aim to provide reliable legal counsel. When you contact us after an accident in St. Louis, MO, we will do the following:
- Meet with you to learn about your claim, your injuries, and the necessary compensation
- Investigate all potential causes of your accident and identify the responsible parties
- Gather evidence and file claims seeking damages on your behalf
- Negotiate with insurance companies and other parties
- Advise you on whether to settle your case or take your claim to trial
Cases involving car accidents caused by unsafe or defective vehicles can be complicated. Numerous parties can be found at fault, including parts manufacturers or mechanics. The driver may also be liable if they ignore mandated safety inspections.
Having a resourceful car accident attorney by your side can help ensure you are fairly compensated for injuries. At Roach Law, we have recovered millions of dollars for our clients and are committed to helping you. Reach out today for a free consultation with a St. Louis car accident attorney.
Safety Inspection Requirements in Missouri
Most vehicles in Missouri must pass a safety inspection when they are initially registered in Missouri. The general rules regarding these inspections are as follows:
Registering a New Vehicle or Out-of-State Vehicle
New vehicles typically do not require their owners to obtain a safety inspection to register, provided the cars were purchased in Missouri, are less than ten years old, and have fewer than 150,000 miles recorded. The seller is required to provide the buyer with a safety inspection certificate dated fewer than 60 days if one is needed for the vehicle.
However, if you purchase your vehicle out-of-state or are moving to Missouri with one registered in another state, you must obtain a safety inspection before you can register it in Missouri. The inspection must be done within ten days of returning or moving to Missouri, and afterward, you will then have the remainder of 30 days to get your vehicle registered.
Safety Inspection Required Every Two Years
Once registered, your vehicle will need to undergo an updated safety inspection every two years. Your annual renewal notice will tell you whether/when your vehicle is due for a safety inspection.
Emissions Inspections May Also Be Required
If you live in St. Louis City (or County), St. Charles County, Franklin County, or Jefferson County, you will also need to get an emissions inspection to register your vehicle. The timeframes and schedules for doing so are the same as those for safety inspections.
Exceptions to Inspection Requirements
Vehicles that are less than five model years old, weigh more than 26,000 pounds, or have historic plates are exempt from needing a safety inspection. Additionally, gasoline vehicles made before 1995, diesel vehicles made before 1996, and those weighing more than 8,600 pounds do not need an emissions inspection.
Failure To Obtain a Required Inspection
If you do not get your vehicle inspected when required, you will not be able to register your vehicle in Missouri or renew an existing Missouri registration. Continuing to drive your vehicle without having it properly registered can result in a citation and a fine.
Contact Our St. Louis, MO, Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Safety inspections are designed to identify vehicles that pose a danger to others on the road and alert the drivers that their vehicles need repair. When someone causes a crash due to an issue that could have been caught in a safety inspection, that person may be held responsible for your injuries and losses.
Contact Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers as soon as possible following any St. Louis, Missouri, car accident. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation with a St. Louis car accident lawyer, and during yours, we will review the facts of your case and advise you on how you can best protect your interests.