If you have been involved in a car accident, you may be wondering whether you need to talk to a car accident lawyer. The truth is, some minor car accident claims can be resolved without a lawyer. However, even a seemingly “minor” accident can become complex if the insurance company gets involved.
Keep reading below to learn more about the triggers that should signal you to hire a car accident lawyer in Kansas City, MO.
When to Hire a Lawyer After Your Accident
Most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, so it is a good idea to talk to a lawyer after any accident. They can advise you of your legal options, and talking to a lawyer can also help ensure you are getting a fair offer from the insurance company.
While you might not need to hire a lawyer after a minor car accident, hiring a lawyer is absolutely in your best interest in some situations.
You should reach out to a lawyer if your accident involves:
Severe Injuries
If you have sustained a severe injury, the potential value of your claim may rise substantially. You may be entitled to significant damages for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
An experienced lawyer can help you put an accurate value on your claim based on all your injuries, such as:
- Broken bones
- Brain injuries
- Disfigurement
- Back and spine injuries
- Injuries requiring surgery
What might seem like a minor injury at first could potentially turn into a bigger issue later. It is always a good idea to wait until your doctor can give you a complete and thorough medical evaluation before you accept a settlement.
Multiple Defendants
Accident claims involving multiple defendants can be challenging, and you likely need the help of a lawyer to navigate these claims. For instance, truck accident claims are notorious for involving multiple defendants, such as:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- Service and maintenance providers
- Equipment manufacturers
An experienced lawyer can help you identify all the defendants who may share liability for your injuries.
Damages Beyond Insurance Policy Limits
Victims who are hurt in a car accident in Missouri are entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages. These damages can quickly rise into the tens of thousands of dollars, especially when severe injuries are involved. Missouri law only requires drivers to carry $25,000 of liability insurance coverage for bodily injury.
An experienced lawyer can help you identify additional sources of compensation to help you get fully compensated for your injuries.
Questions of Liability
It can sometimes be challenging to determine exactly what caused a car accident. In these situations, the insurance company is not likely to accept liability right away. They might even try to blame you for the accident to avoid paying it altogether.
An experienced lawyer can help you gather evidence to prove your case. Your lawyer might even need to use experts, such as crash reconstructionists, to prove your claim and establish liability. Additionally, Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule. This means that you may still be able to recover compensation even if you share some of the fault for your accident.
If you are partially at fault, your recovery will be reduced by your portion of the fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for your accident, you would only be entitled to recover 70% of your damages. Your lawyer can help protect you against “blame the victim” tactics and ensure that you are maximizing your financial recovery.
Call Cohen Law Firm to Arrange a Free Consultation With a Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been hurt in a car accident in Kansas City, MO, Cohen Law Firm is here to help. You do not have to go through this difficult time alone. Call our Kansas City car accident lawyers today for a free case evaluation.