Best Car Accident Lawyers in Wichita

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact numbers for Wichita are (316) 350-3400 for Wichita Police Patrol North, (316) 350-3440 for Wichita Police Patrol South, (316) 350-3420 for Wichita Police Patrol East, and (316) 350-3460 for Wichita Police Patrol West.

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

  Police reports for accidents in the area may be obtained from the Wichita Police Department at 455 N. Main, Wichita, KS 67202. The Accident and Theft office is on the 5th floor. Requests may be sent through mail or phoned in at (316) 268-4186. Information is also available in PDF form from http://www.wichita.gov/accident. Incidents are reported to the website within 10–15 working days, while cases over a year old are removed.

• What damages can you obtain following a car accident in Wichita?

  Plaintiffs may file claims for the psychological and physical distress suffered during a motor vehicle incident in Wichita. Some of these cases involve persistent migraines and back aches. There are also cases involving individuals whose emotional trauma hampers daily activities like working jobs and completing higher studies, reducing one's ability to live on their own.

• What should you tell the insurance company after an accident in Wichita?

  Plaintiffs in Wichita must tell their insurers the basic facts of the case without making any judgments on who was at fault. As to the defendant's insurance provider, the claimant must mention nothing and refer any adjusters to one's lawyer. Statements made to the defendant's assurance firm are likelier to harm the case and give cause to lessen payouts.

• What is "no-fault insurance" and what does that mean for car accidents in Wichita?

  No-fault insurance under the applicable state laws in Wichita refers to how a motor vehicle indemnity firm is required to pay out money to covered victims even without establishing fault on the part of any party. This translates to a minimum coverage to answer for damages valued at below $2,000. This is not a bar against filing suit against any negligent parties.

• Is there a time limit to filing a car accident claim in Wichita?

  Kansas law, which applies to Wichita, imposes a time limit of two years to take action following a car accident. Victims and families are advised to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. Building a successful case against the reckless party involves determining the relevant facts and gathering evidence ranging from photos taken at the scene to police and doctors' reports.

• How should you deal with police officers immediately after a crash in Wichita?

  Never make any admission of fault following the accident in Wichita, and never apologize for anything. Be cooperative when asked basic questions, but never imply that your decisions or behaviors caused the incident, sticking to a simple and straightforward narration of the sequence of events leading to the collision. Write your script down before the cops arrive and memorize it.

• 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.