Best Car Accident Lawyers in Kansas City

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency line of the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department is (913) 596-3000.

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

  The Records Section of the Police Headquarters at 700 Minnesota Avenue can provide copies of accident and criminal offense reports. The first five pages of reports are free of charge.

• Who is responsible for paying the damages you have incurred after a car accident in Kansas City?

  After being involved in a car accident in Kansas City, your car insurance carrier is usually responsible for covering the damages you have suffered. No-fault benefits, also known as personal injury protection, are a mandatory component of every auto insurance policy offered in Kansas. These pay for damages like medical bills and lost income.

• How long do you have to file a lawsuit following a car accident in Kansas City?

  Kansas's statute of limitations for property damage and personal injury is two years from the date of your car accident. If it results in wrongful death, you have two years from the date of the victim's passing to file a claim. Take note that your claim will most likely be dismissed in Kansas City if you fail to pursue legal action within the deadline.

• What is the deadline for an insurance company to resolve a car accident claim in Kansas City?

  In Kansas City, an insurer has 30 days to pay a valid claim or send a notification regarding its denial or delay. It can request more details during the first 30 days, but it only has 15 days from the time it receives new information to either pay the claim or reject it. A 1% interest of the billed charges per month will accrue for any violation of this rule.

• Will you be arrested for driving without insurance in Kansas City?

  Driving without insurance is a Class B misdemeanor in Kansas City. Depending on the severity of the situation where you are discovered driving without insurance, fines can range from $300 to $2,500. Other possible consequences include having your registration and license suspended and being imprisoned.

• Can an insurance company reduce the compensation amount if a car accident victim in Kansas City was not wearing a seat belt?

  Despite attempts by insurance companies to negotiate and reduce compensation, the seat belt defense cannot be used in Kansas. This means an injured party not wearing a seat belt during an accident cannot be held partially responsible for their injuries. It is important to seek legal guidance from a Kansas City car accident attorney who can help individuals receive the full compensation they are due whether they were wearing a seat belt or not.

• 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.