Car crashes are an all-too-common occurrence in Kansas City. Victims face medical expenses, lost wages, and stress from dealing with insurance. If you were injured, you may question what your rights are and how to maintain them. A Kansas City personal injury attorney will be able to help you, explain Missouri law, and fight for fair compensation. This site is distinct in that it splits what you should do in case you are involved in an accident, what you are entitled to receive, and how an attorney is engaged.
Your Rights After a Missouri Automobile Accident
Missouri has a fault system. The responsible party is liable for compensating damages. Victims are entitled to:
- Obtain medical treatment and recover expenses.
- Recover lost wages due to injury.
- Recover vehicles for repair or replacement.
- Recover damages for pain, distress, and suffering.
If the insurance of the at-fault driver is not enough, you can sue. A lawyer preserves your rights.
What to Do Right Away After the Accident
How you react after an accident matters. Protect your safety and claim by following these steps:
- Call 911 – Always report the accident. The police create a record that is utilized in claims.
- Get medical attention – Even minor pains may become serious later on.
- Exchange details – Get insurance and contact details of every driver.
- Record the scene – Take photos of vehicles, injuries, and surroundings.
- Avoid assigning blame – Avoid taking blame, even when pressured.
- Call an attorney – Early attorney assistance prevents mistakes.
Small steps at the start make your case stronger.
Why You Ought to Call an Attorney
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to pay out as little as they can. An attorney:
- Handles the adjusters for you.
- Examines all offers of settlement and rejects unfair ones.
- Collects evidence like medical records and reports of accidents.
- Counsels you what to say and what not to say.
Without a lawyer, you may sign away your rights or settle too fast. With a Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer, you have a greater chance of fair recovery.
Compensation Available
A Kansas City personal injury lawyer can help you recover damages such as:
- Medical expenses – Emergency travel, hospital stay, rehabilitation, drugs.
- Long-term care costs – Future treatment or surgery.
- Lost income – Lost income while off work.
- Reduced income – If future earning capacity is affected by injuries.
- Property damage – Repair or replacement of the vehicle.
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for mental and physical distress.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – If daily activities are limited.
Every case is unique, and the figure is different based on the severity of your injuries.
Mistakes That Hurt Your Claim
Victims make assumptions that hurt their cases. Don't make these common mistakes:
- Waiting for a doctor to treat you – Insurers can accuse you of not actually being injured.
- Saying too much to the insurer – Adjusters distort what you say.
- Posting on the internet – Comments or photos harm your case.
- Missing deadlines – Waiting too long to file can close your claim.
- Accepting the first offer – Early settlements are usually far too low.
A lawyer keeps you from making these costly mistakes.
Missouri Time Limitations for Filing Claims
Missouri gives you five years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is the statute of limitations. Waiting too long may cost you the right to recover damages. Some cases, like suits against the government, have time limits that are shorter. See an attorney in a hurry to stay within deadlines.
Do You Still Have a Case if You Are Partially at Fault?
Yes. Missouri has a comparative fault doctrine. That is to say even if you are partially responsible, you are entitled to damages. Your settlement is reduced by your share of fault.
Example: If you are 20% at fault and the overall damage is $100,000, you can still recover $80,000.
Kansas City Car Crash Statistics
Kansas City experiences thousands of car accidents every year. Leading causes are:
- Distracted driving (phones, food, or passengers).
- Drunk or impaired driving.
- Speeding and reckless driving.
- Failure to yield.
These accidents result in victims with long-term injuries and high expenditures. Statistics illustrate the reasons why aggressive legal process representation is necessary after the crash.
Preparation for Your First Lawyer Session
Visiting a lawyer soon after an accident helps them build a strong case. Take along:
- Police accident report
- Tragedy photos and vehicles
- Bills and records for medical expenses
- Documentation of lost time at work or earnings
- Insurance documents
- Any contact information of witnesses
The more evidence you take, the faster your attorney will be able to get moving.
FAQs
1. Do I need an attorney if injuries are not serious?
Yes. Certain injuries grow worse with the passage of time. An attorney keeps your claim in good standing.
2. Was the accident partly my fault?
You are still eligible to claim damages. Your level of fault reduces payment.
3. How do lawyers get paid for accident claims?
Most use contingency fees. You only pay if they succeed in recovering compensation on your behalf.
4. How long will my claim take?
Others resolve in months. More complex cases with more serious injuries may take several months.
5. Can I deal with the insurance company on my own?
You can, but you shouldn't. Insurers lowball. Lawyers get higher offers.
Closing Thoughts
A car accident can flip your world upside down in a split second. Pain, bills, and anxiety can swamp you. But you're not alone. A Kansas City personal injury lawyer can protect those rights, negotiate with insurance firms, and fight to secure you the payment you need. Don't let insurers tell you what your suffering is worth. Consult with an experienced Kansas City personal injury attorney who is familiar with Missouri law and will stand by your side.
