Serving Victims In Missouri And Kansas
Did another driver’s reckless behavior cause you injury? Even low-speed collisions can leave drivers and passengers with severe injuries and property damage. After a vehicle accident in Kansas City, you need fast, clear answers. What rights do you have? How can you secure fair compensation? Following a car accident, you may find yourself overwhelmed and worry about how you will pay for your medical bills and other expenses from the crash.
If your injuries have left you unable to work, you might be tempted to accept whatever settlement offer the other driver’s insurance company proposes. However, despite how alluring the idea of receiving a settlement offer right away may be, don’t accept it until you have discussed your situation with a Kansas City car accident lawyer at Holman Schiavone, LLC. Our team is here to navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out by calling 816-399-5149 for a free consultation to discuss your situation and for guidance and support during this challenging time.
The Aftermath Of A Kansas City Vehicle Accident
When the dust settles after a vehicle accident, victims are often left dealing with not only the physical aftermath but also the legal repercussions. As experienced Kansas City car accident lawyers at Holman Schiavone, LLC, we offer assistance to significantly reduce the challenge. We conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering necessary evidence and consulting with experts to handle the legal challenges.
We maintain a commitment to compassionate support and open communication throughout the legal process, with a persistent focus on securing the best possible outcome for our clients.
Understanding Your Rights As A Car Accident Victim In Missouri And Kansas
In Missouri and Kansas, victims of car accidents have the privilege to pursue compensation from the responsible party who caused their suffering. However, proving the other party’s liability may require substantial evidence, such as police reports and eyewitness accounts. The process could also involve navigating unique aspects of state laws and regulations.
For instance, in Missouri, medical expenses may initially be covered by MedPay or health insurance, which later requires reimbursement from the settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurance.
The Role Of An Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
In the aftermath of a vehicular accident, the involvement of a proficient car accident lawyer can significantly alter the game. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, a skilled personal injury attorney can ensure that all relevant factors are considered to obtain full compensation for injuries, working with medical providers to maximize the victim’s claim value.
Our team is dedicated to:
- Protecting our clients from being unjustly blamed in various situations
- Leveraging evidence and expert testimonies to reinforce the strength of the case
- Ensuring that multi-vehicle accident claims are assessed correctly for fair financial recovery.
You don’t want to navigate the aftermath of a car accident alone. So whether you’re seeking justice for yourself or on behalf of a loved one who suffered a wrongful death, you’ll want a Kansas City car accident lawyer on your side.
Types Of Vehicle Accidents We Handle
Each car accident presents its unique set of circumstances, with a variety of factors contributing to the collision and subsequent damages. At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we have developed experience in handling a wide array of vehicle accident cases. Whether it’s a simple two-car collision or a complex multi-car pileup, our seasoned car accident lawyers are equipped to handle the intricacies of each case.
Our experience extends to more difficult cases involving rideshare incidents, semi-truck collisions, drunk driving crashes, and hit-and-run accidents. During this stressful time, you need the help of a trustworthy law firm that will treat your case with the care it deserves. As knowledgeable car accident attorneys, we use our skills and years of experience to help car accident victims who are coping with the fallout of all kinds of collisions, including the following:
Auto Accident Lawsuits
Auto accidents can lead to several severe hardships for accident victims and their families. Victims may suffer severe injuries to the brain and spinal cord. These and other severe injuries have lifelong consequences. For those who have lost loved ones in auto accidents, they must contend with the emotional and financial devastation of a wrongful death.
We handle a wide range of motor vehicle accident lawsuits, including:
If you have been injured in an auto accident, it is likely the negligent driver’s insurance provider will try to limit, delay, or outright deny your claim. It is very important to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer before talking to an insurance representative. The insurance company may try to get you to make statements that damage your legal prospects. We know how to deal with insurance companies because we handle auto accident lawsuits every day. We have the knowledge to determine how much your claim is worth and will fight for every penny.
Car Accidents
Car accidents can vary in severity from minor fender benders to high-impact collisions, potentially resulting in serious injuries and extensive property damage. At our personal injury law firm, Holman Schiavone, LLC, we understand the distressing aftermath of such incidents and is committed to representing clients involved in various types of collisions.
Rollover Car Accidents
Rollover accidents can be disastrous. Certain types of vehicles are more vulnerable to rolling over during a collision or under certain road conditions, such as vans and SUVs. If manufacturers of these vehicles fail to implement adequate safety measures to protect passengers during a crash, manufacturers should be held accountable for their negligence.
Taking on an automobile manufacturer will require you to hire a seasoned legal team since manufacturers have their own legal representation looking out for their best interests. In addition, experienced personal injury lawyers will help you determine if you have a product liability case to bring against the automotive manufacturer alongside a car accident case against the at-fault driver.
T-Bone Car Accidents
T-bone auto accidents, also called side-impact accidents, can occur when a driver fails to yield appropriately at intersections or when traffic signals fail and multiple automobiles cross an intersection simultaneously. If a T-bone accident happened because of improper street signage or faulty traffic signals, accident victims might be able to seek compensation from the entity or person responsible for maintaining the signage or signals in addition to the other driver.
However, proving negligence in these situations can be challenging, so contacting a Kansas City personal injury attorney should be the first thing you do after you seek medical attention. You’ll want your legal team to investigate the circumstances surrounding your auto accident while you’re focusing on recovering from the accident.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on car collisions can have devastating consequences. When vehicles are in head-on collisions, they may flip or roll during the crash, making this type of accident one of the most dangerous for drivers and passengers. Since both vehicles are typically traveling toward each other, a significant amount of force is produced on impact. Some injuries frequently resulting from head-on crashes include:
- Back injuries
- Blunt force trauma
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Internal bleeding
- Neck injuries
- Scarring
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Whiplash
If a head-on car accident caused by someone else has left you injured, contact a Kansas City car accident lawyer from Holman Schiavone, LLC, immediately to begin pursuing compensation.
Rideshare Accidents
With the advent of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, the transportation atmosphere has undergone a significant transformation. However, this has also introduced unique legal challenges, especially when accidents involving a rideshare vehicle occur. Rideshare accidents can stem from various factors, including driver inexperience, vehicle maintenance issues, and risky driving behaviors associated with the urgency to pick up and drop off passengers.
Semi-Truck And Commercial Vehicle Collisions
The massive size and weight of semi-trucks and commercial vehicles often result in devastating consequences when collisions occur. Such accidents involve complex legal questions due to the application of federal laws and regulations specific to commercial transport.
Drunk Driving Crashes
Crashes caused by drunk driving frequently result in severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, and damages, as a result of the impaired judgment and coordination of the intoxicated drivers. This reckless behavior not only endangers the lives of other road users but also leads to legal consequences for the at-fault driver.
If you’re a responsible driver who would never consider climbing behind the wheel after drinking, you may be shocked to learn that intoxicated driving isn’t a rare occurrence. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly one-third of traffic fatalities involve an intoxicated driver.
Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Multi-vehicle accidents, commonly known as pile-ups, present a unique set of challenges when it comes to determining fault and responsibility. These accidents often involve chain-reaction collisions and multiple points of impact, adding complexity to the determination of events and responsibilities.
The process of seeking compensation can become challenging in multi-vehicle accident claims due to the task of determining fault and responsibility. Cases involving several vehicles often involve chain-reaction collisions and multiple points of impact, which complicate the determination of events and responsibilities in a car accident claim.
Hit-And-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents, where a driver involved in an accident flees the scene without identifying themselves or assisting injured parties, can be particularly distressing for victims. These cases can be challenging to resolve due to the difficulty in identifying and locating the responsible party. However, at Holman Schiavone, LLC, we are committed to helping victims of hit-and-run accidents seek justice and compensation.
We will negotiate with your insurance provider and gather evidence to prove they are accountable for compensating you for your losses. As long as you carry the amount of uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance required in Missouri, your insurance provider is responsible for covering your medical expenses and property damage. However, for them to do that, you’ll have to prove your claim is valid.
Motorcycle Collisions
When you legally operate a motorcycle, you have the same rights as any other vehicle on the road. Sometimes drivers violate these rights by intentionally driving recklessly. Drivers can also collide with motorcyclists because they don’t see them when maneuvering through traffic.
Tragically, fatalities are common in traffic accidents involving motorcycles and cars. Motorcycles don’t provide structural protection to the rider, and helmets and other protective apparel are no match for a vehicle in a crash. In multi-vehicle crashes involving a motorcycle, the odds that the rider will be killed or severely injured are even higher. Injured victims who are seeking restitution for their losses or family members looking to file wrongful death claims should reach out to personal injury lawyers. A lawyer will help them build a strong case against the at-fault party.
Distracted Driving: A Growing Concern On Kansas City Roads
In Kansas City, distracted driving has become a pervasive issue, leading to numerous car accidents annually. Factors such as cell phone use, eating and drinking, and conversing with passengers contribute to this concerning trend. The prevalence of cell phone usage, in particular, has heightened the risk of accidents, as it diverts both visual and cognitive attention from driving tasks. Even seemingly innocuous activities like eating or engaging in conversations can significantly impair a driver’s ability to react promptly to road conditions. As a result, Kansas City residents face an increased risk of accidents caused by distracted driving. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, seek legal guidance from the experienced attorneys at Holman Schiavone, LLC.
Steps To Take Following A Vehicle Accident In Kansas City
While the aftermath of a vehicle accident can indeed be chaotic and overwhelming, taking specific steps to safeguard your rights and bolster any potential legal claims is paramount. First and foremost, it’s essential to report the accident to law enforcement promptly and obtain a detailed crash report. This report serves as crucial documentation of the incident and can provide invaluable evidence in any subsequent legal proceedings.
Additionally, gathering witness statements and thoroughly documenting the accident scene can further strengthen your case. Witness testimonies can corroborate your account of the events leading up to the accident, while detailed documentation of the scene, including photographs and videos, can help reconstruct the sequence of events and determine liability.
Furthermore, seeking immediate medical attention is vital, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not manifest symptoms immediately but can worsen over time if left untreated. By seeking prompt medical care, you not only prioritize your health and well-being but also establish a crucial link between the accident and your injuries, which can be pivotal in pursuing compensation for medical expenses and other damages.
In essence, taking these proactive steps can significantly bolster your position in any potential legal proceedings following a vehicle accident. By promptly reporting the incident, gathering evidence, and prioritizing your health, you can protect your rights and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome in your case.
Dealing With Insurance Companies: Your Ally In Insurance Claim Battles
In the aftermath of a car accident, interactions with insurance companies can indeed present a daunting challenge for many individuals. Insurance adjusters are trained to employ a range of tactics aimed at minimizing payouts and protecting their company’s interests. One common strategy involves introducing delays in the claims process, which can frustrate claimants and pressure them into accepting less favorable settlements. These delays may include requests for additional documentation or repeated inquiries, all of which prolong the process and create uncertainty for the claimant.
Moreover, insurance adjusters frequently dispute the costs of medical treatment and other expenses related to the accident. They may question the necessity of certain treatments or argue that the costs are excessive, casting doubt on the validity of the claimant’s injuries and financial losses. By challenging the legitimacy of these expenses, adjusters seek to reduce the overall value of the claim and limit the insurer’s liability.
In addition to disputing treatment costs, insurance adjusters often present lowball settlement offers to claimants in an attempt to expedite the resolution of the claim. These initial offers may significantly undervalue the true extent of the claimant’s damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. By enticing claimants with quick but inadequate settlements, adjusters hope to minimize payouts and close the case without further negotiation or litigation.
We understand the challenges individuals face when dealing with insurance companies after accidents. With our experienced legal team by your side, you have a trusted ally in insurance claim battles. We advocate tirelessly on behalf of our clients, ensuring that insurance companies fulfill their obligations and provide fair compensation for injuries and damages. Our extensive knowledge of insurance laws and negotiation strategies empowers us to protect your rights and pursue compensation. When you choose our firm, you gain a dedicated partner committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Assessing Damages: From Medical Bills To Emotional Distress
In car accident cases, accurately assessing damages entails a comprehensive examination of both economic and non-economic factors. Economic damages, which are tangible and quantifiable losses, play a crucial role in determining the financial impact of the accident on the injured party. These damages encompass various aspects directly related to the accident, including medical bills incurred for necessary treatments and rehabilitation efforts to recover from injuries sustained. The assessment typically involves a meticulous review of medical records, invoices, and receipts to determine the extent of medical expenses accrued as a result of the accident.
Non-economic damages in car accident cases represent the intangible losses and hardships endured by the injured party. Unlike economic damages, which can be easily quantified, non-economic damages encompass factors such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages reflect the physical and emotional toll of the accident, including the pain experienced during recovery, the emotional trauma of the incident, and the impact on the individual’s quality of life. While challenging to quantify, non-economic damages are nonetheless significant and deserving of compensation. Evaluating these damages requires a nuanced understanding of the individual’s experiences and the lasting effects of the accident on their well-being. Through diligent advocacy and careful consideration, our legal team at Holman Schiavone, LLC, strives to ensure that our clients receive fair and just compensation for all aspects of their car accident injuries and losses.
What Will A Car Accident Lawyer From Holman Schiavone, LLC, In Kansas City Do For Me?
As car accident attorneys, we build personal injury cases and pursue compensation for harm caused by at-fault drivers. Since car accidents can leave you with catastrophic injuries that prevent you from working or cause you to require ongoing medical care for the rest of your life, having an auto accident attorney defend your rights can be the difference between struggling financially and having your medical expenses compensated.
Ensure You Understand Your Rights
If you’re like most drivers, you aren’t familiar with personal injury law and how it refers to car accidents. This unfamiliarity makes it impossible for you to protect your rights adequately. The other driver’s insurance company will be working to compensate you as little as possible, so you can’t rely on them to treat you fairly or offer a reasonable settlement.
Unfortunately, unrepresented drivers can often be manipulated into doing or saying things that hurt your claim by the insurance adjuster. When a car accident attorney represents you, they will manage communication with the insurance company about the car wreck.
Having an attorney serve as a go-between prevents the insurance company from exploiting your inexperience. Adjusters know that unrepresented drivers are more likely to accept a meager settlement than one who is working with an attorney or that they might accidentally say something that makes it easy to blame them for the accident.
Don’t Take The Blame
Since the state of Missouri follows an at-fault system for determining which party must pay for the damage caused, admitting you hold responsibility for the car crash could cost you your ability to file an accident claim. The insurance company may attempt to get you to take back your original statement about how the accident occurred so that they can shift the blame from their driver to you.
A skilled car accident lawyer will keep the insurance company from pressuring you and serve as a defense against their attempts to manipulate you. No matter what the other party’s insurance company tries to tell you, you do have legal options for seeking justice. Working with a lawyer ensures you take advantage of these avenues and don’t lose your opportunity to seek compensation.
Provide Legal Advice
Following a car crash, you’ll likely be overwhelmed, wondering what actions you need to take to protect yourself and file a car accident claim. Unfortunately, crowd-sourcing your loved ones won’t work because if you ask your friends and family what you should do following a car accident, you’ll likely get a variety of answers. And while there’s plenty of information accessible on the internet, you’ll have to discern which sources are trustworthy and which aren’t, which can be tricky and time-consuming.
Both of these methods require you to do enormous amounts of research and legwork and still don’t guarantee that you’ll arrive at a satisfactory conclusion. The last thing you need during this stressful time is to spend your time trying to decipher which laws apply to Kansas City car accidents.
Handle Settlement Negotiation
Going back and forth with the insurance adjuster while you’re healing from car accident injuries isn’t a winning recipe for receiving compensation for the harm you experienced. The adjuster knows this, and they will push you to accept their settlement offer while you aren’t at your best, physically or mentally.
They will also want you to quickly agree to a settlement so that the extent of your injuries hasn’t become apparent. If they can get you to agree to a settlement when you believe your injury is temporary, they can avoid being held responsible for long-term issues caused by the car accident.
Don’t Settle For A Subpar Settlement
A Kansas City car accident lawyer will keep the insurance adjuster from pressuring you into an insultingly low settlement or one that doesn’t consider your future medical bills. Instead of giving in to the adjuster, they will use evidence such as medical records and bills to prove that the settlement you are being offered is unreasonably low and negotiate to try to get you the compensation possible for your injury claim.
Represent You In Court If Necessary
Most insurance companies prefer to work out your car accident claim without going to court. However, if your situation cannot be resolved, a car accident lawyer in Kansas City will represent you in the courtroom. They will present your car accident case and the evidence showing that you are not the at-fault party.
Your medical bills and documentation of lost wages will be used to prove that the settlement you are asking for is fair for the damage you suffered. Also, your lawyer may detail the physical and emotional damage you experienced because of the accident or use your medical records to prove your injuries were caused in the car crash.
Schedule A Free Consultation At Holman Schiavone, LLC
When you’re injured in an accident, your main priority should be recovering from your injuries. We know that dealing with a car accident claim while you are in physical pain from your injuries is a stressful experience.
Negotiating with the other driver’s insurance adjuster can leave you feeling frustrated. You may be tempted to accept a lower settlement offer than you deserve just to be done with the situation. The insurance adjuster knows this, and they may pester you more, hoping you will accept an absurdly low settlement. During this vulnerable time, you need someone to fight for you.
We are compassionate car accident attorneys who understand the financial, emotional and physical strain you are under right now. We want to do everything we can to alleviate your stress and secure the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation by calling 816-399-5149 to discuss the details of your situation, and let us manage your car collision claim so you can focus your energy on healing.