Best Car Accident Lawyers in Saint Joseph

FAQs

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

  If you need to report a non-emergency or are requesting general police information or fire assistance in Saint Joseph, Missouri, you may call 816-271-4777.

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

  You can obtain a copy of your police report from the records unit of the Saint Joseph, Missouri. They are available from 8 a.m to 5 p.m through their telephone line, 816-271-4705.

• What are the common causes of car crashes in Saint Joseph?

  Saint Joseph is located in Missouri, a state where factors like speeding, drunk driving, driver age, road hazards, and distracted driving are frequently found to contribute to a substantial number of car accidents. The number of fatal traffic accidents increased by 12% between 2019 and 2020, according to the Missouri Department of Transportation.

• How do you assess a potential claim in Saint Joseph, Missouri?

  When assessing a claim in Saint Joseph, you may take into account a number of variables, including

  • the extent of damage to your car or personal property,
  • the amount of medical expenses brought on by the accident,
  • anticipated future medical expenses, lost wages and work benefits,
  • potential future income loss, and
  • the level of pain and suffering you have endured.

• What injuries from a vehicle accident in Saint Joseph show late symptoms?

  There are five frequent injuries from auto accidents that take time to manifest and are not always visible. These include:

  • spinal injuries that take days to appear,
  • undiscovered blood clots that may be released after an accident and obstruct blood flow,
  • internal bleeding that may take time to identify, and
  • whiplash and concussions that may take a while to show symptoms.

• Can you get compensation for late-appearing injuries from a car accident in Saint Joseph?

  Yes, you are entitled to compensation in if your injuries were caused by the inactions or actions of another person. This is regardless of whether your injuries manifested right away or later on. You can consult with a local Saint Joseph lawyer to help you obtain a fair settlement for your medical expenses, continued therapy, missed pay, and pain and suffering.

• What is included in Saint Joseph's personal injury protection or PIP insurance?

  Personal injury protection insurance or the no-fault insurance coverage, pays accident-related charges for you, your passengers, and your vehicle. Regardless of who caused the accident's culpability, the policy will cover up to a specific sum. This enables the drivers involved to make a claim with their own individual insurance providers.

• 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.