Car accidents happen in an instant. You’re fine one moment. Next, your life is turned upside down. If you’re in Missouri and hurt in a car accident, you may be wondering what to do first.
This article will guide you through the proper procedure. We’ll help you know when to contact an experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer, what they are, and how they can help you.
First Things First: What to Do Right After a Car Crash
Stay calm. Take a deep breath. Then do this:
- Check for injury. If injured, call 911 right away.
- Get to safety. If your car is still running, drive out of traffic off the road.
- Call the police. Even for small accidents, a report comes in handy.
- Take photos. Record damage to the cars, road signs, and injuries.
- Get information. Share names, numbers, plates, and insurance with the other driver.
- Talk to witnesses. Obtain names and numbers. They may be helpful down the line.
- Go see a doctor. Even if you’re fine. Some injuries don’t manifest themselves until later.
Missouri Car Accident Laws You Should Know
Missouri is a fault state. What that means is the at-fault party pays damages.
When another person rear ends you, their insurance should cover:
- Repairing or replacing your car
- Medical bills
- Loss of wages
- Pain and suffering
But insurance companies are not always honest. They will sometimes try to shortchange you. That’s when a Kansas City personal injury attorney can step in.
Signs You Should Call a Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer
All accidents don’t need a lawyer. But if any of these are realities for you, it’s time to dial the number:
1. You Were Injured:
Even a strained neck can be astronomical in terms of medical bills. If you were harmed, a lawyer can help you with the legal process to receive reimbursement for your care.
2. The Other Driver blames You
If someone says the accident was your fault—but it wasn’t—a lawyer will battle back.
3. Insurance Won’t Pay or Stalls
Some insurance companies stall. Others tell you your case isn’t worth anything. A lawyer can negotiate with them so you don’t have to.
4. Your Bills Are Piling Up
Lost wages, hospital visits, and car repairs add up very quickly. You shouldn’t have to pay if someone else is responsible for the accident.
5. A Loved One Died
If death occurred in the accident, the case is worse. A lawyer will help you file a wrongful death action.
What a Car Accident Lawyer Can Do for You
This is what you have when you hire a lawyer after a car accident:
- They deal with the insurance companies. You don’t need to speak.
- They gather evidence. Police reports, videos, witness statements, medical records.
- They add up your damages. Bills—but lost time, pain, and stress too.
- They complete the claim. No missed deadlines or small mistakes.
- They negotiate better. If the first offer isn’t good enough, they will fight.
- They go to court if need be. Most cases settle, but your lawyer is ready to fight.
Kansas City Car Accidents: Local Rules That Matter
Some home truths that are important to your case:
- Statute of Limitations: You have 5 years from the accident in Missouri to file a claim. Don’t wait.
- Comparative Fault: If you have some fault, your funds may be reduced. An attorney lowers your fault percentage.
- City Cameras: Kansas City does have traffic cameras. Your lawyer may get film to support your claim.
- Medical Liens: Hospitals may try to recover money from your settlement. A lawyer can eliminate or minimize those.
You Pay Nothing Up Front
Kansas City injury attorneys practice primarily on a contingency fee basis. That is:
- You pay nothing if you lose.
- The attorney takes a percentage of your settlement.
- No back-end fees.
That minimizes the risk of paying a lawyer. You get help without getting broke.
Real-Life Example: Why Timing Matters
Jill, a nurse from Kansas City, got rear-ended at a red light. She was okay, just hurt. Her bumper cracked. She didn’t make a fuss about it. She waited 3 weeks to see a doctor. Then she developed back pain. She filed a claim, but the insurance company concluded the pain was not associated with the accident. She contacted a personal injury lawyer. They gathered evidence, paid her medical bills and obtained receipts, and got her a good settlement.
Moral? Don’t delay. The earlier you move, the stronger your case.
How to Choose the Right Lawyer
Not all lawyers are created equal. Look for one who:
- Handles cases of your type
- Makes free consultations
- Lis carefully and explains well
- Doesn’t charge upfront
A Kansas City local attorney will also be familiar with local judges, court process, and insurance news.
What You Need to Have Before Calling
Have the following when you do make that call to an attorney:
- Police report (if you have one)
- Pictures of the accident
- Bills or records of medical care
- Names of witnesses
- Insurance details
Don’t panic if you don’t have all that. Just get the process started.
Your Next Step
Were you hurt in a car accident in Missouri? Don’t wait. Call a lawyer right away. A personal injury lawyer in Kansas City will fight for your rights and help you get what’s yours.
FAQs
1. How long do I have to make a claim in Missouri?
You have 5 years to make a personal injury claim after an auto accident. But the quicker, the better.
2. Do I need an attorney for a minor car accident?
Maybe not. But if you’ve been injured or your claim is rejected, speak with an attorney. Most offer free consultations.
3. Will my case go to trial?
Most cases are settled without going to trial. But if it becomes necessary, your attorney will be ready to argue your case before a judge.
4. How much does an attorney for a personal injury case cost?
No down payment. They only get paid if you win. They take a percentage of your settlement as their fee.
5. Will I get money if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Missouri is a comparative fault state. If you’re 30% at fault, you get 70% of the settlement. A lawyer works to lower your fault percentage.
Bottom Line
Need help right away? Talk to a seasoned Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer today. Your consultation is free, and you only pay if you win.