Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lawrence

FAQs

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

  The Lawrence Police Department's non-emergency phone number is (785) 843-0250.

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

  Visit the Lawrence Police Department at 4820 Bob Billings Pkwy, Lawrence, KS 66049 to get a copy of your accident report, or call them at (785) 832-7501 to have it mailed to you. Depending on how you obtain it, an accident report in Lawrence might cost anywhere between $6 and $20.

• What are the primary causes of car accidents in Lawrence?

  Driver error is the primary factor in auto accidents in Lawrence. This includes speeding, driving while intoxicated, failing to yield, and disobeying traffic signs. Car crashes can also result from distracted driving, such as texting or eating while operating a vehicle. Inadequate vehicle maintenance, poor road conditions, and manufacturing flaws in cars, like faulty seatbelts or non-deploying airbags, are other causes of car collisions in the city.

• What should you do after getting involved in a car accident in Lawrence?

  Your health and well-being should be your main priority following a horrific auto accident. Call 911 as soon as possible and seek medical attention. If you can get out of your car safely, take photos and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and your injuries. Once the police officers arrive, inform them of the accident's specifics and request that they talk with any witnesses. Trade contact details with the other driver involved in the collision and call a knowledgeable Lawrence car accident attorney.

• How can an attorney help you with your Lawrence car accident claim?

  Although it might be tempting to handle things on your own and accept a check from the insurance company, it still advisable to consult with an attorney after getting involved in a car accident in Lawrence. A car accident lawyer can thoroughly investigate your case, gather important evidence, help you compile a list of your damages and injuries, file compensation claims, and negotiate with the responsible parties' insurance providers to aggressively pursue a settlement that provides you with maximum compensation for your losses.

• What compensation can you pursue following a car accident in Lawrence?

  Victims of car accidents in Lawrence are entitled to economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are the actual costs you incur as a result of your injury. These cover things like payment for medical expenses, missed wages, diminished ability to earn in the future, and property damage. Non-economic damages are compensation for your losses that are not financial. These include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of quality of life.

• Can you still seek compensation if you are partially at-fault for your car accident in Lawrence?

  Yes, you can still pursue compensation if you are partially at fault for your car accident in Lawrence. According to Kansas' modified comparative negligence rule, an injured plaintiff may file a claim for compensation if their percentage of responsibility is less than the sum of the percentages of all other parties' faults. The plaintiff must therefore bear less than 50% of the blame. The plaintiff will receive less money as compensation for their proportionate share of responsibility.

• 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.