Best Car Accident Lawyers in St. Charles

FAQs

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

  Call +1 636-949-3300 for non-emergency concerns in St. Charles, MO.

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

  You can request a copy of an accident report in St. Charles, MO by filling out the Records Request form on: https://www.stcharlescitymo.gov/FormCenter/Police-8/Request-for-Copy-of-Report-83. Alternatively, you may request a paper copy by visiting the St. Charles City Police Department:

  Attention: Records 1781 Zumbehl Road St. Charles, MO 63303

• What should you do after getting hit by another driver in St. Charles, MO?

  If you are the victim of a car accident in St. Charles, there are some important things you must do if you are physically and mentally stable enough to do so. These include:

  • Reporting the accident to the authorities.
  • Getting the names and contact information of eyewitnesses.
  • Taking photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and weather and road conditions
  • Seeking medical attention immediately and ensuring that your attending physician records all your injuries and symptoms.
  • Refusing to give a statement or settle with an insurance company without the guidance of an attorney.

  These steps will help you build your case if you’re filing a legal claim or lawsuit.

• Is it necessary to hire a lawyer if you sustain injuries in a car accident in St. Charles, MO?

  While it is not required, hiring a personal injury lawyer after figuring in a car crash in St. Charles can help you in many ways. Your legal team can take care of investigating your accident thoroughly to build a strong case for you, determining liability, and negotiating with insurance companies to give you the compensation you deserve. With an attorney handling your case, you will also have more time to focus on your recovery.

• Are all drivers in St. Charles, MO, required to have uninsured motorist insurance coverage?

  Yes, under the Missouri Uninsured Motorist Statute, all drivers in St. Charles and the rest of the state are mandated to maintain uninsured motorist coverage, which entitles any injured motorist to compensation from their own insurance company if they were hit by an uninsured driver. The minimum coverage thresholds are $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.

• Can you still recover compensation for your injuries even if you’re partly at fault for a car accident in St. Charles, MO?

  St. Charles follows Missouri’s pure comparative fault rule, which allows you to recover damages even if you are found to be partly responsible for the accident. But, the amount of compensation you will be receiving is determined by the percentage of your share of blame in the accident. For instance, if you are 50% at fault, the damages you are due will also be reduced by 50%.

• How much time do you have to file a legal claim after getting involved in an accident in St. Charles, MO?

  According to Missouri Revised Statutes § 516.120, you have five years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit or claim for injuries you sustained in a car accident in St. Charles. If you let this time frame lapse without taking any legal action, your case may be dismissed. Meanwhile, if you are pursuing legal restitution for a loved one who died in a car accident, you only have three years from the day of their death to bring a wrongful death 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.