Not every car accident requires the work of an attorney. However, with nearly half of all Missouri car crashes resulting in an injury, there are many cases in which a lawyer can be a great asset. Car accident scenes can be hectic, and the aftermath is often painful, full of stress, and confusing. Along with the likelihood of injuries, the types of injuries sustained in car accidents may not show symptoms for months, and they could take even longer to resolve. You may have heard that you should call a lawyer after being in an accident, but how do you know if you really need a car accident attorney?
When to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
You should hire a car accident attorney if:
- You were injured in the accident
- You missed work or school
- The other driver was intoxicated
- The accident involved an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare company
- The accident involved a semi truck or commercial vehicle
- The other driver’s insurance coverage doesn’t cover your damages OR they don’t have insurance
- You receive a lowball offer from an insurance company
What Compensation Can You Receive After an Accident?
If you sustained damages after a car accident, Missouri law states that you can be awarded compensation, even if you were partly at fault. Missouri uses comparative fault to determine responsibility in a car accident. That means that, after an investigation, fault is assigned to each driver involved in a percentage. If you were found 20% at fault for a collision, your compensation is then reduced by 20%.
The types of damages you can claim after a Missouri car accident include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Surgery and physical therapy
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repairs and personal property damage
What Does a Car Accident Attorney Do?
It’s a common misconception that involving a lawyer can prolong your car accident case. The truth is that hiring a lawyer can speed up the process of receiving the compensation that you deserve for your accident. A Missouri lawyer who specializes in car accidents is a vital resource, especially if you were seriously injured.
Gather Evidence
Evidence is crucial when it comes to assigning fault and deciding on compensation for accident victims. In the best case scenario, you were able to take photos of the scene and get witness testimonies to back up your case. That’s not always possible, though. Maybe you were taken to a hospital in an ambulance or were too disoriented to think of what to do after the accident. A lawyer can help get evidence to support your case, such as traffic cameras and more, to strengthen your claim.
Communicate with Insurance
Many people feel frustrated when it’s time to file an insurance claim. The process isn’t always easy, and you may get a settlement that’s too low. Your lawyer can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf to negotiate your settlement so you receive fair compensation.
Represent You in Court
If you decide to sue, hiring a skilled attorney will increase your chances of winning. Not only does your attorney have all the necessary knowledge of Missouri laws, but they also know how the court system works.
The Missouri Car Accidents Attorneys You Can Trust
Whether you have questions about your car accident or are ready for a consultation, the attorneys at Dreyer & Tinney are ready to help. We help car accident victims across Missouri achieve success with their car accident claims. With over 25 years of experience representing our clients receive compensation for injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Contact us today to schedule your FREE consultation.