In Need of a Missouri Car Accident Lawyer?
At Wallentine Injury Law, LLC, we understand the devastating impact auto accidents can have on individuals and families across Missouri. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were 992 traffic fatalities in our state last year, a staggering reminder of the risks on our roads.
Alarmingly, the 106 distracted driving fatalities represent an all-time high, with experts believing the true number is much higher due to the difficulty of documenting distractions in crash reports. Aggressive driving remains the leading cause of fatal crashes, accounting for 521 deaths, while alcohol and drugs contributed to 182 lives lost.
The heartbreaking truth is that all these tragedies were preventable. That’s why we dedicate ourselves to advocating for victims of negligence, striving to secure maximum compensation from insurance companies that often seek to minimize payouts.
With decades of combined experience and a proven record of representing over 1,000 clients in trials, hearings, mediations, and settlements, our team provides aggressive, truth-driven, and client-centered representation. We are committed to ensuring clients feel heard and supported through clear communication and compassionate service.
If you or a loved one has been injured or tragically lost their life in an auto accident caused by negligence, let our skilled Missouri personal injury lawyers guide you with exceptional legal care. Contact us today for a free consultation to share your story. If your case qualifies, we will represent you on a contingency basis, ensuring that financial barriers never stand in the way of justice.
How Do Missouri’s Traffic Laws Impact My Car Accident and Injury Case?
Missouri’s traffic laws significantly influence the outcomes of auto accident and injury cases.
Key aspects include:
- At-Fault Insurance System: Missouri operates under an at-fault system, meaning the driver responsible for causing an accident is liable for resulting damages. Victims can seek compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance, their insurance, or by filing a personal injury lawsuit.
- Comparative Negligence: Missouri follows a pure comparative negligence rule, allowing injured parties to recover damages even if they are partially at fault. However, compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 30% at fault, you can recover 70% of the total damages.
- Statute of Limitations: Missouri law provides a five-year window from the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury claims resulting from car accidents. For wrongful death claims, the period is three years from the date of death. Failing to file within these timeframes can bar you from seeking compensation.
- Mandatory Insurance Requirements: Drivers must carry minimum liability insurance coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident is also required.
- Accident Reporting Obligations: Accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported to local law enforcement as soon as possible. If a police officer did not investigate the scene, a written report may also be required within five days.
- Recent Legislative Changes: Valentine’s Law imposes severe penalties on drivers fleeing traffic stops, including fines of up to $10,000 and potential prison sentences. Additionally, the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law bans texting while driving and requires the use of hands-free devices for phone apps, with fines starting at $150 for first offenses.
Understanding these laws is crucial in navigating the aftermath of an auto accident in Missouri. Consulting with our experienced Missouri car accident lawyers can help ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
Can I Handle My Missouri Car Accident Claim Without a Lawyer?
While it is legally possible to handle your Missouri car accident claim without a lawyer, doing so can be challenging and may significantly affect the outcome of your case.
Here are key considerations:
- Understanding Missouri’s At-Fault System: As mentioned, Missouri follows an at-fault insurance system and a pure comparative negligence rule. Determining liability and calculating how fault affects compensation can be complicated.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts. Without legal experience, you may undervalue your claim or struggle to counter low settlement offers.
- Proving Liability: Establishing fault requires evidence like police reports, witness statements, medical records, and, in some cases, expert testimony. Gathering and presenting this evidence effectively can be overwhelming.
- Calculating Damages: You must account for current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Overlooking future costs can leave you under-compensated.
To do checklist after a car crash in Missouri
Our experienced Missouri car accident attorneys understand the legal system, can negotiate effectively with insurance companies, and ensure you meet all legal requirements to pursue a successful claim. We provide invaluable support by investigating your case, calculating damages accurately, and advocating for your best interests.
If you’re unsure about handling your claim alone, our Missouri car accident lawyers offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. This allows you to make an informed decision without financial risk.
We Also Focus on the Following Areas in Missouri:
Contact Our Skilled Missouri Car Accident Attorneys for Help Today
At InJerry Law, we believe every Missouri car accident victim deserves legal representation that is compassionate, prepared, and effective. With decades of combined experience and a strong record of results for injured clients, our attorneys are committed to pursuing the compensation you deserve while treating you with the dignity and care your situation demands.
When you work with our firm, you receive personalized attention, clear guidance, and advocacy built on thorough preparation. During your free consultation, we will review your case, explain your options, and outline a path forward. Missouri law allows recovery even when fault is disputed, and we prepare every case with the understanding that it may need to be proven—whether in negotiations or before a Missouri jury.
You are more than a case file. At InJerry Law, we take the time to understand your story and build a case that reflects it. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay if we recover compensation for you.
Call (816) 934-6333 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation and take the next step toward recovery.
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