Car wrecks happen unexpectedly. In Kansas City, they leave you traumatized, hurt, and confused as to what your next move should be. It’s the immediate actions you take following an accident that decide your chances of getting a reasonable claim. From the accident report stage to the settlement, knowledge about your rights is crucial. This article outlines the legal process in case of a Kansas City car accident. It shows how an experienced Kansas City car accident lawyer keeps you safe. It speaks about the accident location, reports, insurance company claims, and the settlement procedure. You will also learn five must-know questions that people have about Kansas City automobile accidents.
What Should You Do Immediately after a Kansas City Automobile Accident
When a crash occurs, your first goal is safety. Make sure everyone is out of harm’s way.
1. Check for Injuries
Your health and that of others come first. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or unconscious. Emergency responders will arrive and help.
2. Move to Safety if Possible
If the vehicles block traffic or are in a dangerous spot, move them to the side. Turn on hazard lights to warn other drivers.
3. Report the Accident to Police
Missouri requires reporting accident with injury or more than $1,000 in property damage. Call police so they can record the crash in a police report. The police report is crucial to your case.
4. Gather Important Information
Write down or take note:
- Other driver’s name and contact information
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- Time, date, and location of the accident
5. Take Photos
Take pictures with your phone of the scene of the accident, vehicle damage, road condition, skid marks, and injuries. They will be helpful in substantiating your claim later.
6. Don’t Talk About Fault
Don’t apologize or take fault at the scene. Fault is decided based on facts and law, not opinions.
7. See a Doctor Even If You’re Fine
Some injuries are delayed in manifesting symptoms. Medical examinations provide a record of your state, which is in your favor.
Why Is the Accident Report Important?
The police or highway patrol accident report is important evidence. It contains:
- Parties involved
- Testimony of witnesses
- Officer’s opinion on fault
- Information regarding the crash environment
Make sure to get a copy. Your lawyer will verify it for accuracy. Sometimes reports leave something out or have errors that hurt your case. Your attorney can request corrections or details.
What Can an Attorney Do for You After a Kansas City Automobile Accident?
Going it alone is daunting. Insurance companies call on you early to maintain low payments. An attorney steps in to protect your rights.
1. Protecting Your Rights
A lawyer knows the law and procedure. They will protect you from speaking anything that may harm your case.
2. Crash Investigations
Your attorney can get more evidence like statements from witnesses, security camera video, or traffic cam photos. They may hire experts to recreate the crash.
3. Coping with Insurance Companies
Insurers prefer to pay out less cash. Lawyers settle reasonably and do not get taken in by pitfalls like low quick offers.
4. Calculating Your Real Losses
Doctor bills, car repairs, lost income, and pain and suffering all figure. Lawyers do not leave out anything when asking for compensation.
5. Suing if Necessary
If the insurance company refuses or offers insufficient insurance, your lawyer will sue on your behalf. They will prepare all documents and make your case to a judge.
Missouri car accident laws
Kansas City is in Missouri, so Missouri law will direct your case of an accident. These are some of the key points:
- Missouri is a comparative fault state, so in the event you are partially at fault, your award is reduced by your percentage of fault. As an example, if you were 20% at fault, you get 80% of damages.
- You must file a claim within Missouri’s statute of limitations—which usually is five years for personal injury.
- Missouri requires liability insurance with minimum coverage levels for motorists.
What Happens During the Insurance Claim Process
Once you file the accident report, the insurance company starts investigating.
1. The Insurance Adjuster Contacts You
They ask about the crash and injuries. Don’t talk excessively or say you caused the accident.
2. Claim Investigation
The insurance company looks over the police report, photos, and medical information. They may ask for a recorded statement.
3. Damage Assessment
The insurance company reviews your car repairs and medical expenses.
4. Settlement Offer
They make you an offer based on what they find. In most cases, it is less than you are entitled to.
5. Negotiation
Your attorney negotiates for a higher offer. This is for the purpose of getting you fully compensated.
Things to Do If You Don’t Like the Insurance Offer
If the offer seems too low, you have options:
- Ask your attorney to write a demand letter that lists all your damages.
- Present medical and repair bills showing the actual expenses.
- Be patient—settlements do not occur overnight, especially with major injuries.
- If the case is not settled, your lawyer can sue to continue in court.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Crash Case?
Each case is different. Small claims can settle in weeks. Cases of serious injury, disputes on fault, or holdups with an insurance company might take months or even years. Don’t settle too soon. Settling too soon may leave money for future medical bills or chronic pain on the table.
Choosing a Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer
When choosing an attorney, consider the following:
- Experience handling Missouri car accident cases
- Knowledge of local courts and insurance companies
- Good communication and honest fees
- Positive reviews from past clients
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. In other words, they only get paid if you prevail in your case.
Common Errors to Avoid After a Car Crash
- Failure to call the police or your insurance company.
- Delaying treatment for injuries.
- Accepting the first insurance offer without consulting.
- Talking too much to insurance adjusters.
- Failure to hire an attorney for severe injuries or damages.
Avoiding such types of errors protects your case and places you in a better position for a good settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How soon should I hire an attorney after a Kansas City car accident?
You must hire an attorney as soon as possible, ideally in days. Early representation will maintain your rights and preserve evidence.
2. What do I do if the other driver is not insured?
Missouri statute requires insurance for uninsured motorists. Your coverage will cover medical bills and damages if the other driver is uninsured.
3. Can I handle the insurance claim myself?
You may try, but the insurance companies actually pay less to unrepresented claimants. An attorney raises your chances of getting a fair settlement.
4. How long does it take to settle a car accident claim?
Simple claims will settle in weeks. Claims with serious injury or dispute will settle in months or longer.
5. What damages am I entitled to recover following a car collision?
You are able to recoup medical bills, lost income, repair of your car, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages.
Last Thoughts
Car accidents can destroy your life in so many ways. But you don’t have to do it alone. From the moment you report the accident until you get your settlement, a good lawyer is by your side. They battle for your rights and for the money you deserve. If you’ve been in a Kansas City car crash, take action today. Collect evidence, get medical care, and contact a local Kansas City personal injury lawyer with experience in car accident cases. The right help makes a big difference in your recovery and peace of mind.
