Best Car Accident Lawyers in Springfield

FAQs

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

  The Springfield Police Department may be reached for non-emergency calls at 417-864-1810 for general inquiries and phone-in reports, and 417-864-1757 for traffic services.

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

  The police's traffic and incident reports are available through walk-in visits at the South District Station located at 2620 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, MO. They are also obtainable electronically through CARFAX at https://www.crashdocs.org/#/reports?state=MO&agencyORI=MO0390300. Incidents that occurred before March 1, 2012 must be obtained from the South District Station or the headquarters at 321 E. Chestnut Expressway, Springfield, MO., directly.

• What happens when a negligent driver flees an accident scene in Springfield?

  Drivers who flee the scene of the accidents they cause are criminally liable for their actions in addition to any civil suits for damages. These perpetrators usually leave their victims because they lack valid licenses or have no insurance coverage. On average, these incidents occur five times a day on average in the Springfield metro.

• How are settlement amounts in a car accident claim in Springfield determined?

  In Springfield, settlement amounts are affected by a handful of factors, such as the severity of the victim's injuries and the impact these have had on the victim's daily life. Usually, these are seen in the medical costs incurred by victims and any lasting emotional damage that prevents the smooth conduct of everyday activities. Comparative negligence is also taken into account if a plaintiff is partly to blame for the incident.

• What are the typical causes of car crashes in Springfield?

  Car crashes in Springfield usually result from negligent driving, which includes operating vehicles when distracted by electronic gadgets or intoxicated. Unsafe practices like tailgating and failing to signal turns lead to mishaps. Accidents also occur due to poorly designed roadways, which opens city governments up to liability for failing to keep public roads safe.

• What should be considered when filing suits for commercial vehicle accidents in Springfield?

  Commercial transport carriers like trucking companies have substantial legal resources and resort to tactics such as destroying vital evidence while pretending to clear the accident scene. Claimants in Springfield must secure the services of a lawyer promptly to preserve evidence by filing emergency motions to stop the destruction of evidence and obtain vital information about the accident.

• How much time does a plaintiff have to file a suit for car accidents in Springfield?

  The Springfield metro, as with the state of Missouri, imposes a five-year period within which to file suit for automobile injury cases. The time limit is shortened to three years when an accident results in wrongful death. For insurance claims with private providers, a claim must be made within a "reasonable time," which translates to a few days or weeks.

• 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.