When a driver in Kansas City, Missouri, is driving in an irresponsible manner or in a way which constitutes negligence and causes a crash, car accident injury victims just like yourself may be eligible for financial compensation.
Our experienced Kansas City car accident lawyers are 100% committed to making sure that you recover after being unjustly injured in a car wreck.
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Injured in a car accident in Kansas City, Missouri? The skilled legal team at Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers offers free case evaluations. Call (816) 237-5496 today for a free consult!Â
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Imagine driving home from work at Kansas City University when a distracted driver runs a red light on Independence Avenue, t-boning your car and leaving you injured.
Or picture heading to AutoZoom on I-70 with your son to look at used cars, only to be sideswiped by a reckless driver weaving through traffic, forcing your vehicle off the road. These scenarios highlight how accidents can occur in an instant, upending lives.
Legal representation from Beck & Beck’s award-winning car accident attorneys in Kansas City can make a massive difference in the potential outcome of your accident or injury claim. Our sole focus is Missouri car accident law and you can be sure that our team will aggressively work in your best interest.
Reasons Why Car Accidents Happen
Car accidents in Kansas City, Missouri, are caused by various factors, many of which are preventable. Understanding these causes can help raise awareness and reduce the frequency of accidents in the city. Below are the primary contributors to the high accident rates in Kansas City.
- Driving With Excessive Speed
- Distracted and Inattentive Driving
- Drunk Driving and Impaired Driving
- Aggressive and Reckless Driving
- Young and Inexperienced Drivers
- Dangerous Road and Weather Conditions
Common Driving Errors
Missouri drivers frequently make mistakes that lead to accidents. These include:
- Failure to Yield the Right-of-Way
- Improper Lane Usage or Change
- Improper Passing
- Following Too Close
Establishing Liability in Car Accident Claims
In Kansas City, determining fault in a car accident involves analyzing evidence like police reports, witness statements, and traffic violations. Missouri courts assess the actions of all parties involved in assigning responsibility.
Police reports provide critical details, but they aren’t admissible in court. They serve as a starting point for insurers and attorneys. Traffic violations like speeding or distracted driving can significantly impact fault determination.
Witness statements and accident reconstruction experts also play a role in clarifying responsibility. Missouri’s comparative negligence rule allows for shared fault, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault for the accident.Â
Our experienced Kansas City car accident lawyers will assist by clearly establishing liability and making sure blame is not unfairly shifted to you.
Evidence Which Will Help Strengthen Your Claim
Building a strong car accident claim in Missouri requires gathering comprehensive evidence to prove the extent of your injuries, the financial impact, and the fault. Here are the key types of evidence that can support your case:
Reports From the Police Department
Reports from the Kansas City police department provide an official account of the accident, including details like the time, location, and observations made by officers at the scene.
While these reports are generally not admissible in court, they are invaluable for identifying potential liability and guiding the claims process.
Statements From People Who Witnessed The Crash
Eyewitnesses offer unbiased accounts of the accident. Collect contact information from anyone who saw the crash, including bystanders or passengers.
Witness testimony can corroborate your version of events and clarify what happened. Expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, can also provide critical insight into complex aspects of your case.
Medical Records Proving The Extent of Your Injuries
Medical documentation is one of the most crucial pieces of evidence in a car accident claim. It verifies the injuries you sustained, the treatment required, and the long-term impact on your life.
Include hospital bills, doctor’s notes, diagnostic imaging, and prescriptions. Seeking prompt medical attention strengthens your claim by linking your injuries directly to the accident.
Photographs and Videos
Visual evidence can vividly demonstrate the crash’s aftermath. Photograph the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries from multiple angles.
Our experienced Kansas City car accident attorneys will obtain video footage from dash cams, traffic cameras, or nearby businesses, as these recordings can show how the collision occurred.
Physical Evidence
Tangible items like damaged vehicle parts, debris from the scene, or even personal items damaged in the crash can support your claim. These pieces provide real-world proof of the accident’s severity and impact.
Lost Wages Documentation
If your injuries prevent you from working, keep records of missed days, lost income, and any documentation from your employer. This information is crucial for demonstrating the financial toll of the accident.
Insurance Information
Ensure you collect the other driver’s insurance and contact details, as this is necessary for filing a claim and holding the liable party responsible for damages..
When Fault is Shared
Missouri follows an at-fault system for car accidents. This means that the person responsible for causing the accident is liable for covering damages. Drivers in Missouri are required to carry liability insurance, which compensates the other party if the policyholder is found to be at fault.
However, the situation becomes more complex when both drivers share responsibility for the accident.
Missouri’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rule
Missouri adheres to the doctrine of pure comparative negligence, which allows accident victims to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault. Under this rule, your total damages are reduced by your percentage of fault.
For instance, if you are awarded $200,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault, your recovery will be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $160,000.
This principle is codified in Missouri Revised Statutes Section 537.765, which replaced the old contributory negligence rule that barred recovery if a plaintiff was even slightly at fault.
Missouri also applies a joint and several liability rule for defendants in tort actions, outlined in Missouri Section 537.067. Defendants found 51% or more at fault are jointly and severally liable for the full damages awarded. However, defendants with less than 51% fault are only responsible for their allocated percentage of damages.
Do I Need a Lawyer For a Minor Car Accident?
You may not need a lawyer for a minor car accident in Kansas City if the damages are minimal and liability is clear. However, if the insurance company disputes liability, undervalues your claim, or offers a low settlement, consulting an attorney can be helpful.
A lawyer can also assist if you experience delayed injuries, like whiplash, or discover hidden damage to your vehicle.
Missouri’s comparative negligence law allows you to recover compensation even if you share partial fault for the accident, so having an attorney can protect your interests. It’s a good idea to start with a free consultation to assess whether legal help is needed, especially if issues arise during the claims process.
I’m From Out-of-State and Got Into an Accident in Kansas City, What Do I Do?
Out-of-state car accidents in Missouri, can be confusing and stressful. Since the accident occurred in Missouri, state laws here will apply and it will be important to immediately contact the experienced legal team at Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers.
Here are the steps to take:
- First, prioritize safety by checking for injuries and calling emergency services.
- Report the accident to the Kansas City police and request an official report, which can be critical for your claim.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including contact and insurance details,
- Document the scene with photos and obtain statements from anyone nearby who witnessed the crash.
- Contact your insurance company promptly, as your policy will generally provide coverage regardless of where the accident occurred.
Be aware that Missouri’s fault-based system differs from the no-fault systems in some states. You’ll need to prove the other driver’s negligence to seek compensation.
Our skilled legal team at Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers will guide you through the complexities of jurisdiction, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and build a strong case to maximize your compensation.
We’ll also ensure compliance with Missouri’s statute of limitations for filing a claim, typically five years for personal injury cases.
Types of Damages You Can Be Compensated For
Missouri allows victims to recover two main types of damages: economic and non-economic. Understanding these categories is essential for building a comprehensive claim.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are tangible costs directly tied to the accident and your injuries. These include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage provides emergency care, diagnostic tests, hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and necessary assistive devices like crutches or wheelchairs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you lose due to being unable to work during recovery or while attending medical appointments.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability, you can claim for the reduction in your ability to earn income in the future.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your vehicle and other belongings damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate for the intangible impacts of your accident and injuries, which are harder to quantify but equally significant. These include:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain you endure during and after the accident, as well as ongoing complications.
- Emotional Distress: Covers the psychological toll of the accident, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Loss of Consortium: Damages awarded for the loss of companionship or physical intimacy that serious injuries can impose on relationships.
Missouri’s laws ensure you can pursue compensation for these damages, but the process is complex. Consulting a knowledgeable attorney in Kansas City, Missouri, can help you maximize your claim.
Factors That Affect Settlement Amounts for Missouri Car Accident Claims
The value of a car accident settlement in Missouri depends on various factors, with the specific damages sustained being the primary influence. Property damage, such as the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle or personal belongings, directly affects the settlement amount. Severe or extensive damage typically results in a higher payout.
Medical expenses also play a critical role, covering costs like emergency care, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care needs. More severe injuries or chronic conditions often lead to larger settlements due to the increased financial and medical burden.
Another critical factor is lost income from missed work during recovery. If the accident results in a permanent disability or reduced earning capacity, compensation may include future lost wages.
Non-economic damages, such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress, are evaluated based on the severity and lasting impact of the injuries, often resulting in higher awards for more serious cases.
The strength of your evidence, including photos, witness statements, and medical records, can significantly influence your settlement, as it helps substantiate your claim and counter disputes. Missouri’s comparative fault laws may reduce your compensation if you share responsibility for the accident. In rare cases of gross negligence, courts might also award punitive damages, which can further increase the final settlement amount.
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri, is a bustling metropolitan area with ongoing efforts to enhance its road infrastructure. The city is undertaking several major road projects to improve safety and reduce traffic congestion. For instance, the city prioritizes resurfacing key streets and making pedestrian-friendly upgrades as part of its Vision Zero initiative.
For accident victims, reliable auto repair shops are essential for restoring vehicles to their original condition. Fortunately, Kansas City offers several reputable options:
- Brad’s Auto Service: Known for their honest assessments and professional repairs, Brad’s Auto Service is a trusted name in vehicle maintenance.
- KC Autoworx 39th: Specializing in everything from basic tune-ups to advanced diagnostics, KC Autoworx is a convenient choice for Kansas City residents.
- TMS Auto Repair: This family-owned business offers top-notch customer service and high-quality repairs, earning a loyal customer base.
- Mike’s Service Center: Focusing on providing fast and reliable service, Mike’s Service Center is a go-to option for many locals.
Whether navigating the challenges of an accident or simply maintaining your vehicle, Kansas City offers a forward-thinking infrastructure plan and dependable repair services to keep drivers moving.
Experienced Auto Accident Attorneys in Kansas City, Missouri
At Beck & Beck Missouri Car Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping auto accident victims in Kansas City seek the justice and compensation they deserve. With years of experience handling car accident cases, our skilled Kansas City car accident lawyers understand the challenges you face after a crash—mounting medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of recovery.
We work tirelessly to build strong cases by thoroughly investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf. Whether you’ve been injured in a minor collision or a severe crash, we are committed to ensuring you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Our team is here to guide you through every step of the legal process with care and expertise. Don’t face this difficult time alone. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice you deserve.
In addition to Kansas City, Missouri, our legal team also serves St. Louis, Florissant, O’Fallon, Cape Girardeau, Doniphan, Independence, Jefferson City, Springfield, Kirksville, Columbia, and more.
