Best Car Accident Lawyers in Independence

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Independence, Missouri?

  (816) 325-7300 is the non-emergency contact number for the Independence Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Independence, Missouri?

  You can get a copy of the police report by sending a records request to cityclerk@indepmo.org. You may also contact the Independence Police Records Unit by calling (816) 325-7010.

• Can a bar be held liable after a drunk driving accident in Independence?

  Yes, a bar may be held liable for a drunk driving accident in Independence. According to the Missouri Dram Shop Law, individuals injured in car accidents can file a claim against licensed alcohol vendors if they knowingly served a visibly intoxicated person or someone under 21 years of age. However, a bar cannot be held responsible if the motor vehicle was damaged but no one was injured. The law also applies specifically to establishments that sell liquor meant to be consumed on the premises.

• Can you still hire a lawyer if you have already accepted the insurance company's settlement offer after a car accident in Independence?

  It may be too late for you to get a lawyer if you have already accepted the insurance company's settlement offer and signed a contract agreeing to it, as well as if a judge or jury ruled against you in court. However, if the insurance company forced you to settle, you may file a bad faith case. You may also sue a person, such as a manufacturer, a mechanic, or a car dealer, other than the party you settled with.

• Can you still seek compensation if you were not wearing seatbelt during a car accident in Independence?

  Yes, you can pursue compensation even if you were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident. Independence follows the Missouri's pure comparative negligence system, under which a percentage of your liability will be deducted from the amount of damages. Additionally, state law stipulates that the defense should present an expert witness to prove that your failure to wear a seatbelt contributed to your injuries. It also states that not wearing a seatbelt can only be attributed to 1% of the fault.

• What is the deadline for filing a car accident lawsuit in Independence?

  Any individual, including a driver, passenger, electric scooter rider, bicyclist, motorcyclist, or pedestrian, who has been injured in a car accident in Independence should file a claim within five years from the date of the crash. It also applies to accidents that resulted in vehicle and property damage. Additionally, if the collision resulted in another person's death, a family member or a representative should file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver within three years from the date of the victim's death.

• What is the average car accident settlement amount in Independence?

  In Missouri, the settlement amount for a minor car accident where there are no injuries ranges from $3,000 to $15,000. If the car accident resulted in death or serious injuries, the settlement amount ranges from $15,000 to over $1 million. Some of the factors that increase the amount include the pain and suffering of the victim, the severity of the injuries, and the negligence of the at-fault driver. The claim can also be strengthened by including medical bills incurred.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.