Missouri Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or someone in your family has suffered a preventable injury because of someone else’s actions or inaction, then you have a right to pursue compensation, and we want to help.

At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we believe that everyone, no matter their financial circumstances, deserves access to high-quality legal representation. That is why we offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis. That means that you pay nothing upfront, and we take a percentage of your settlement after we win your case. If your case is unsuccessful, we will not receive anything for our work. We assume all the risk, so you don’t have to.

We have a long history of success both in negotiating fair settlements outside of court and advocating for our clients in front of a Judge. Insurance defense lawyers know which attorneys are willing to go to court and which are not. Our stellar reputation means the defense is more likely to offer a high settlement outside of court rather than risk losing more.

We will be your fiercest advocates and will fight for a settlement that is representative of your economic expenses and your emotional suffering, as well as your current and future losses. If your injuries are ongoing, we will fight to ensure that all of your future costs are considered and that you are never left struggling financially because of an accident that wasn’t your fault.

With an experienced Missouri personal injury attorney by your side, you can focus on your health and recovery and let them handle the investigation, negotiations, and legal battle. We represent clients across Missouri and Kansas, including Kansas City, Overland Park, Joplin, and St Louis. Give us a call at 816-399-5149 for a free consultation with a Missouri personal injury attorney.

Types of Personal Injury Cases in Kansas City, Missouri

In the bustling heart of the Midwest, Kansas City, Missouri, we encounter a variety of Kansas City personal injury cases. From the rush-hour fender benders to the unfortunate slip-and-fall incidents in a local grocery store, every case is unique. At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we have a long history of successful injury claims, which means that regardless of the circumstances of your case, the likelihood is that our attorneys have helped someone in a similar position to you in the past.

The most common types of injury cases we handle are:

Car Accidents

The roar of engines, the screeching tires, and the dreadful bang–car accidents can turn a regular day into a nightmare in an instant. As we assist victims through this difficult time, our role extends beyond the courtroom. We work tirelessly, from facilitating medical attention to addressing property damage claims, ensuring that our clients focus on what’s most important – their recovery.

The aftermath of a car accident requires more than healing from physical wounds. The financial implications can be staggering, with mounting medical bills and lost wages adding to the burden. We are committed to securing comprehensive compensation covering all these aspects, providing a beacon of hope amidst the chaos.

Product Liability

As a consumer, you have a right to be able to use a product for its intended purpose without fear of injury. Products should also come with proper instructions and adequate warnings of any potential dangers. When a dangerous or defective product hurts a consumer or a bystander, then the victim may be able to claim compensation from the manufacturer.

Most product liability claims are based on strict liability, which means that the manufacturer doesn’t have to have behaved negligently for victims to be able to claim compensation. For example, if a manufacturer properly tested their product and was unaware of the dangers, but a consumer was injured anyway, they may still be able to claim compensation.

Common product liability claims involve:

• Medical devices
• Children’s toys
• Kitchen appliances
• Automobile parts
• Medication
• Home improvement tools such as lawnmowers and power tools

Premises Liability

Property owners have a duty to keep their premises free from hazards and to warn visitors of any potential dangers. If they fail in their duty and a visitor is injured as a result, then they may be liable for the resulting damages.

Under the attractive nuisance doctrine, trespassers who are children may also claim compensation for injuries if they were tempted onto the premises. For example, if a child in an apartment complex walks past a closed pool with the gate left open, decides to enter, and ends up with an injury, then they may be owed compensation.

What If I Was Injured on Public Property?

Slip and Fall Injuries

Imagine walking through a store, minding your own business, when suddenly you find yourself on the floor, victim to a slip and fall accident. It’s not just about the physical pain; it’s also about holding those responsible accountable. Property owners and lessors are legally obligated to maintain safe premises, and when they fail to do so, we step in to ensure justice is served.

From uneven flooring to inadequate lighting, numerous hazards can cause these accidents. Our seasoned attorneys gather evidence, identify the liable parties, and negotiate with insurance companies, striving to secure the fair compensation that victims of slip and fall accidents deserve.

Workplace Incidents

When someone is injured at work, whether a fall from scaffolding or exposure to harmful chemicals, poses significant challenges for victims. Workers’ compensation claims are just one piece of the puzzle. Employees also have the right to pursue additional claims against third parties for negligence, a process that often requires legal assistance.

From the moment an incident occurs, we assist our clients every step of the way. Notifying the employer, filing the compensation claim, and identifying other potential negligent parties are all crucial steps toward securing justice for workplace incident victims.

Nursing Home Abuse

If nursing home abuse or neglect takes place, you might have the opportunity to seek legal solutions. These remedies can halt the harmful behavior and actions, simultaneously ensuring that the facility is held responsible for negligence. Negligence in this context may encompass aspects such as hiring, staffing, maintenance, resident care, or security.

Dram Shop Liability

When alcohol is involved in an accident, the question often arises: Who is responsible? Dram Shop Liability laws in Missouri address this very issue. These laws allow for an establishment, such as a bar or tavern, to be held liable if they serve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor, and that individual subsequently causes harm to themselves or others, such as in a drunk driving accident.

Dram Shop laws aim to promote responsible alcohol service and consumption. Establishments are expected to train their staff to recognize the signs of intoxication and refrain from serving alcohol to those who pose a risk. If they fail to do so, they can be considered negligent and may face legal consequences.

Wrongful Death

There’s no pain quite like losing a loved one, especially when their death was preventable. Wrongful death cases are heart-wrenching, demanding not only legal proficiency but also a compassionate and understanding approach. At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we stand by grieving families, seeking justice for their loved ones, and providing support during this challenging time.

Through a wrongful death action, we aim to secure financial compensation for families, helping to offset the significant financial impact caused by their loss. While no amount of money can ever replace a loved one, it can provide some measure of relief during an incredibly challenging time.

Seeking Compensation for Deceased Family Member

What to do After a Missouri Personal Injury Accident

Every case is unique, and if you have recently been in an accident, then we always recommend seeking a free consultation with our law firm. We will give you some initial advice about your next steps based on your specific situation. Even if you think you might be partially at fault, it is still worth reaching out. So long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident, you may still be able to claim compensation.

To protect your health and maximize your chances of fair compensation, here are some steps you should take:

Check For Injuries

After an accident, your priority should always be your health and the health of those around you. If you feel pain in your head or neck, then you should stay where you are and not move. If you can, check those around you for injuries. If anyone requires immediate medical attention, then phone for an ambulance right away.

Move to Safety

If your injuries allow, then you should move to a place of safety. If you were in a road traffic accident, then you may need to move out of the way of oncoming traffic. If you were in a workplace accident, then you may need to move away from any potential fire hazards or chemical spills.

Call Emergency Services

Depending on the nature of the accident, you may need to call emergency services. If you have been in a road traffic accident and there are injuries or serious property damage, or you suspect that someone is driving under the influence, then you are required to call the police to the scene.

If you were in a workplace accident, then you may need to call the fire brigade to mitigate any potential hazards. Emergency services will help keep people safe and will also file a report which will be important in evidencing your claims later on.

Collect Evidence

Regardless of the circumstance of the accident, the more evidence your attorney can find, the better. You can help by gathering some initial evidence at the scene if you can. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and anything you think might be relevant. You should also collect the contact information of anyone involved in the accident and any witnesses.

We also recommended that you make a written note of what occurred as soon as possible. It is natural for memories to become hazy, and so this can help to make things clear. You can also continue to record all your expenses, as well as your emotional and physical suffering.

Seek Medical Attention

If you were not taken to the hospital by the paramedics at the scene of the accident, then you should seek a medical examination as soon as possible. A medical report is integral to any injury claim, as it provides evidence for your injuries. The sooner after the accident, the better, as it will be easier to establish that your injuries resulted from the accident.

Contact a Missouri Personal Injury Lawyer

You should speak to a Missouri personal injury lawyer as soon as you can. If possible, you should do this before speaking to any insurance company. Your Missouri personal injury lawyer will advise you and help to protect your right to compensation.

Choosing the Right Personal Injury Attorney in Kansas City, MO

Choosing the right personal injury attorney in Kansas City, Missouri, for your personal injury lawsuit can often mean the difference between a disappointing settlement and receiving the compensation you truly deserve. The right attorney serves as your guide, protecting your rights, and advocating for your interests.

Consider these key factors when making this pivotal decision.

Reputation and Experience

Reputation matters, especially when it comes to choosing a personal injury attorney. A lawyer’s reputation is built upon their track record of success, their conduct in and out of the courtroom, and the satisfaction of their past clients. It’s worth taking the time to research an attorney’s professional history, read client reviews, and ask for references.

Experience, on the other hand, is about more than just the number of years in practice. It’s also about the breadth and depth of cases handled. An experienced attorney understands the nuances of the law and personal injury claims and has the experience to take on even the most difficult cases.

Communication and Accessibility

Effective communication is a crucial factor when choosing an attorney for personal injury litigation. You want an attorney who can explain complicated legal terms in plain language, keeping you well-informed throughout the case. Aligning expectations regarding communication methods and frequency during the initial consultation is crucial.

Accessibility is another key consideration. You want a lawyer who is available to answer your questions and address your concerns promptly. How quickly an attorney returns calls or emails can be a good indicator of their reliability and their commitment to your case.

Contingency Fee Basis

Legal fees can be a significant concern for many individuals seeking legal representation. That’s why at Holman Schiavone, LLC, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means our fees are contingent upon the outcome of your case. Simply put, if we don’t win, you don’t pay.

This arrangement allows individuals, regardless of their financial status, to secure legal services. It also aligns our interests with those of our clients – we’re motivated to achieve the best possible resolution, as our fees are directly tied to the success of the case.

The Legal Process for Personal Injury Cases in Kansas City, Missouri

Injury victims seeking financial recovery are well within their rights to pursue a personal injury claim without legal assistance. However, it is incredibly stressful, especially if you do not have much knowledge about personal injury law. It also has a high risk of resulting in no compensation or much less than what you deserve.

When you have the help of a Missouri personal injury lawyer, they can take over your case so that you can focus on getting better. Most injury victims who do have representation end up with a higher amount in compensation, even when legal fees are considered.

Understanding the legal process for serious personal injury cases in Kansas City, Missouri, is essential for anyone pursuing a claim. The process involves multiple steps, each crucial to the case’s eventual outcome.

Initial Consultation

The legal journey often begins with an initial consultation at a law firm. This initial meeting provides an opportunity to discuss the details of your case, assess its viability, and understand potential legal strategies. At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we offer free initial consultations, allowing prospective clients to explore their legal options without any financial commitments.

During this consultation, we discuss the incident, gather preliminary information, and provide an initial assessment of the case. This meeting also allows us to explain the legal process, potential outcomes, and how we can assist you.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

The investigation phase is crucial in building a strong personal injury case. It involves gathering evidence to support your claim, including:

• Photographs
• Eyewitness accounts
• Medical records
• Expert testimonies

This evidence plays a pivotal role in establishing negligence and quantifying damages.

As your legal representatives, we guide this process, ensuring all relevant evidence is collected promptly and accurately. By doing so, we strengthen your claim, increasing the likelihood of a successful financial recovery.

Negotiation and Settlement

Negotiations and settlements form a critical part of the legal process. Insurance companies often seek to minimize payouts, and it takes strategic communication and negotiation skills to secure fair compensation. As experienced personal injury attorneys, we advocate for your best interests, ensuring you receive the compensation you rightly deserve.

We leverage our understanding of case law and employ negotiation tactics to argue for just settlements. From medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering, we strive to ensure all aspects of your claim are adequately compensated.

Trial

While many cases are settled out of court, some may proceed to trial. The trial process involves various stages, including filing a lawsuit, engaging in discovery, and presenting evidence in court. This process requires meticulous preparation and a thorough understanding of the legal system.

At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we prepare our clients for every eventuality, explaining the trial procedures, the potential jury selection process, and the importance of their testimonies. We also ensure our clients are prepared for all possible outcomes, regardless of how clear-cut the evidence may seem.

Common Challenges in Personal Injury Cases

While pursuing a personal injury claim can lead to just compensation for your injuries, it’s not without its challenges. From dealing with insurance companies to proving negligence and establishing damages, personal injury cases can present various obstacles.

Insurance Companies

Insurance companies can pose significant challenges in personal injury cases. Their primary objective is to protect their bottom line, often resulting in claimants receiving less compensation than they are entitled to. Having an experienced personal injury lawyer by your side can help counter these tactics. Partnering with a reputable personal injury law firm ensures you have the support needed for these situations with personal injury lawyers.

We understand how insurance companies operate and have the experience to negotiate effectively on your behalf. Armed with comprehensive evidence and a thorough understanding of personal injury law, we advocate for fair compensation, ensuring your rights are protected.

Proving Negligence

Proving negligence is a crucial part of any personal injury case. It’s not enough to demonstrate that you’ve been injured – you must also show that another party’s negligence caused your injuries. This process involves demonstrating:

1. A duty of care
2. A breach of that duty
3. Causation
4. Damages

With our extensive experience and legal skill set, we guide our clients through this process. Our services include:

• Gathering evidence
• Engaging expert witnesses
• Meticulously preparing and presenting all aspects of your claim
• Maximizing your chances of a successful outcome

Establishing Damages

Establishing damages in a personal injury case can be an intricate process. It involves evaluating the impact of the injury on your life and quantifying your financial losses. Some of the damages that may be considered in a personal injury case include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium

Each aspect of your claim needs to be carefully assessed and calculated to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we understand the intricacies of establishing damages. We ensure all aspects of your claim are accurately quantified, reflecting the true impact of the injury on your life. This comprehensive approach aids in securing the compensation you deserve.

Contact Holman Schiavone Law, LLC for Reputable Personal Injury Representation

A personal injury claim can be a daunting journey filled with uncertainties and challenges. At Holman Schiavone, LLC, we are committed to championing your rights, and providing the guidance and support you need to secure just compensation.

We are more than just legal professionals. We are advocates, advisers, and supporters, committed to championing your rights and securing just compensation for your injuries. With our extensive experience and unwavering dedication to personal injury law, providing high-quality legal representation that you can trust.

From the initial consultation to the final verdict, we stand by you every step of the way. We take the time to understand your unique situation, crafting a legal strategy tailored to your needs. Whether your case involves a car accident, medical malpractice, or wrongful death, you can count on us to provide the support and guidance you need. Contact us today to arrange a free consultation at 816-399-5149.

Frequently Asked Questions