Best Car Accident Lawyers in Grandview

FAQs

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

  816-316-4985 is the non-emergency contact number of the Grandview Police Department.

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

  A police report of your car accident can be acquired in person or by mail from the Grandview Police Department's Records Unit. Visit the department in person at 1200 Main St., Grandview, MO 64030, to make a copy request. You can also submit an email to pdrecords@grandview.org or write to the Grandview Police Department. Reports can be obtained within seven to ten business days.

• What mistakes can hurt your Grandview car accident claim?

  The following are some errors that Grandview car accident attorneys frequently see:

  • Failing to call the police. The police report will be essential to your claim.
  • Forgetting to record the scene. Remember to take pictures and get the contact information of any witnesses.
  • Delaying seeking medical care. You must have medical treatment and records to receive full compensation.
  • Trusting the insurance provider. Insurance adjusters employ various dishonest strategies to pay you the least amount possible.

• What are some of Grandview's most frequent reasons for car accidents?

  Some drivers' negligent behaviors that cause car accidents in Grandview include distracted driving, tailgating, speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, failing to yield the right-of-way, and running red lights or stop signs. Defective auto parts and dangerous road conditions are also quoted as the most frequent reasons for car accidents in Grandview.

• What damages can you recover in a car accident in Grandview?

  Grandview car accident attorneys can help you obtain financial compensation for your economic damages, including costs for the medical care of your injuries and loss of income due to pure pay loss, paid time off or vacation days needed to make up for missed work, and future earning potential. Additionally, they can assist you in getting compensation for non-economic losses like suffering, trauma, and psychological effects.

• How are non-economic damages calculated in a Grandview car accident claim?

  One of two formulas is typically used to calculate non-economic damages in Grandview automobile accident claims:

  • The per diem approach. With this technique, you receive a daily amount for each day your injury affected you.
  • The multiplier method. This determines your total compensation by multiplying your economic damages by a value, commonly between 1.5 and 5.

• How can you obtain compensation if an uninsured driver struck you in a car accident in Grandview?

  The Department of Insurance for Missouri urges drivers engaged in Grandview car accidents with uninsured or underinsured drivers to report the incident to the department and check with their insurance provider to determine if their policy will cover any damages. Additionally, negligent drivers without insurance may still be liable in a personal injury lawsuit.

• 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.