Car Accidents Attorneys in Jefferson City
Car accident injury cases are probably the most common type of case that personal injury lawyers handle. However, the fact that car accidents are so common does not mean they are simple. You’ll be facing insurance companies that are unwilling to pay you the compensation you deserve. If you’re unable to settle for a fair amount, you’ll have to go to court, which is very difficult to navigate without professional legal guidance.
The car accident lawyers at Brydon, Swearengen & England P.C. know what you’re up against. With skilled, aggressive legal representation, we help our clients get the compensation they deserve. If you would like to schedule a consultation to discuss your case, contact us online today.
What You Need to Do First if You’ve Been in a Car Accident
The first thing you need to do if you have been in a car accident is to call law enforcement or call 911. It’s important to contact law enforcement so that they can document and investigate the accident. One the elements that we must prove in representing our client in a car accident injury case is that the other driver is at fault. Not everyone is honest. Not everyone will admit fault even if they were at fault. Officers have specialized training in investigating car accident and injury accident cases. It’s important for law enforcement to come out to the scene to document the evidence and speak with any witnesses.
If you are able, you also need to exchange insurance information with the other driver. It’s important to be able to obtain the other driver’s name and the name of the insurance company. It’s more difficult to obtain the negligent driver’s insurance information once they have left the scene of the accident.
What You Need to Do Next if You’ve Been in an Accident
The days following a car accident can be overwhelming and disorienting. These are the next steps you should take if you’ve been injured:
- Seek medical attention. If you haven’t already seen a doctor, get a thorough examination. If you were treated immediately following your accident, schedule a follow-up appointment if you’re still in pain or are experiencing new symptoms.
- Document the accident. Jot down notes regarding the time and place of the accident and what happened. Take pictures of the accident scene, any damage to your vehicle, and your injuries. If there were witnesses, ask them to provide you with written statements.
- Keep copies of everything. Make sure to keep copies of all medical bills and other expenses related to the accident, regardless of whether they were covered by insurance. You also want to get a copy of the accident report from the police.
This is a lot to keep track of, especially when you’re in pain and focused on your recovery. If you get an experienced car accident attorney involved early on, they can help you document the various aspects of your claim.
You May Be Entitled To Compensation
If you were injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Your claim could include the following components:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Unfortunately, most non-lawyers settle their cases for far less than they are actually worth. An experienced auto injury lawyer can help you seek fair compensation so that you can put your life back together.
Injured in a Car Accident? Contact the Auto Injury Lawyers at Brydon, Swearengen & England P.C.
Car accidents can result in serious injuries that can take months or even years of recovery. Don’t let someone else’s negligence compromise your future. The auto injury attorneys at Brydon, Swearengen & England P.C. have the skill, experience, and knowledge to help you get fair compensation. Contact us to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you.
FAQs About Car Accidents in Missouri
Fault can be determined by reviewing the details of the accident. Police reports, eyewitness accounts and evidence such as traffic camera footage or vehicle damage are key factors. Missouri follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you share some of the fault. Remember, your compensation will be adjusted based on your degree of fault. We thoroughly investigate your case and gather all necessary evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.
It’s best to avoid speaking with the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting a lawyer. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts and may use your statements against you. When you work with Brydon, Swearengen & England, we handle communication with insurance companies to ensure your rights are protected and that you are not unfairly pressured into accepting a low settlement.
Missouri’s statute of limitations for car accident claims is typically five years from the date of the accident. There are limited exceptions to this timeframe depending on the circumstances. Acting quickly after the accident ensures evidence is preserved, and your case remains within this statute.
Yes, you should always see a doctor after a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, may not show immediate symptoms. A medical evaluation will document your condition and ensure a link between the accident and your injuries, which is critical for your claim. Always follow through with your doctor’s recommended treatment plan.
Compensation is calculated by assessing your economic losses through medical bills and lost wages, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impacts on your quality of life and the degree of fault will also influence the value of your claim. Our attorneys work to ensure all elements of your case are thoroughly evaluated to maximize your recovery.
Facing a car accident claim can be stressful, particularly when facing insurance companies and legal processes. Having an attorney by your side helps you avoid being taken advantage of during the negotiation process.