Car accidents can ruin lives within seconds. Victims in Missouri, however, face accumulating medical expenses, lost wages, and distress. Trying to navigate through the complex system to receive deserving compensation is an intimidating experience. Here comes the role of a car accident attorney. They not only help you achieve the maximum settlement but also guide you through the legal process, handle all communications with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected.
Comprehending Missouri’s Comparative Fault Law
Missouri has a “pure comparative fault” system. Even if you are partially responsible for the accident, you can recover damages. Your compensation, however, decreases by your fault percentage. Sounds like too much to handle? Let’s decipher its explanation through an example. For example – if you are 30% at fault for a car accident and your damages are $100,000, you would get $70,000. Here comes the expertise of a legal professional. A licensed car accident attorney can reduce your fault percentage to ensure you receive the maximum settlement for the accident.
Proper Valuation of Your Claim
Calculating your claim’s actual value is more than total medical bills. It includes:
- Medical Bills: Current and future medical costs.
- Lost Income: Wages lost as a result of inability to work.
- Damage to Property: Repair or replacement of your car.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical discomfort and emotional distress suffered.
Lawyers coordinate with doctors and financial experts to evaluate these damages precisely. This thorough examination allows you to seek the sum you’re entitled to.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. They might offer quick, lowball settlements, hoping you’ll accept out of desperation. Attorneys understand these tactics. They handle communications, present compelling evidence, and negotiate assertively on your behalf. For instance, they might counter a lowball offer with a detailed breakdown of your expenses and losses, or they might challenge the insurance company’s assessment of fault. Their involvement often leads to higher settlement offers.
Proving Liability
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were 131,390 traffic accidents in 2023. 989 people lost their lives in these accidents. So, proving your innocence can be a tough nut to break. Car accident attorneys lead in establishing the other party’s negligence during the settlement procedure. They help you in:
- Gathering Evidence: Collect police reports, witness statements, and photographs as solid proofs.
- Accident Reconstruction: Attorneys work with experts to recreate the scene to shed light on your innocence.
- Consulting Experts: They involve medical experts in the case to correlate injuries with the accident.
Managing Legal Timelines
When it comes to car accidents, time is of the essence. In Missouri, you have a five-year window to file a personal injury suit. Failing to meet this deadline could jeopardize your chance of receiving damages. Lawyers understand the importance of timely action and ensure all documents are submitted promptly, protecting your right to compensation.
Trial Representation
While most cases are settled out of court, some go to trial. An attorney works diligently to make your case forceful before a judge or jury. Their experience in the courtroom can help you win a favorable verdict.
A car accident lawyer in Missouri helps you receive the best possible settlement. From being familiar with Missouri’s comparative fault laws to negotiating with insurance firms and representing you in court, their experience is priceless in helping you receive well-deserved compensation. If you have been in a car accident, don’t face this challenging experience alone. Call our experienced lawyer to take care of your case, and we make sure your rights are upheld.
