A car crash occurs in a second or two. If you have been injured in a car crash in Kansas City, it is critical you know your rights under the law. Consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Kansas City right away. This page discusses what to do after the crash, how you can obtain help and compensation, and what to know about your rights for protection for you and your family during difficult times.
What To Do Right After a Car Crash
Your first concern should always be safety. Assess yourself and those near you for injuries. If you feel that you or anyone else has been injured in the accident scene, summon 911. Attempt to remain calm, and get yourself and others to safety if that is an option. Do not argue with anyone or claim fault or liability. You will want to collect information. All of the driver(s) names and contact information, including the driver(s) phone number(s), insurance information, and photographs of the accident scene, involved vehicles, and of course any injuries. You should review your own notes from the accident while it’s all still fresh in your recollection. Next, contact the police. The police will offer a police report which will detail the specifics of the accident. Ask the police how you will get your police report, when you can get your police report, and if you need to know or do anything else to finalize your own police report, as a police report can be very helpful for claims by your own insurance or even litigation. Finally, if there were witnesses to the accident, get their contact information; witness written or verbal testimony may be helpful as well.
See also: Navigating Family Law: Choosing the Right Lawyer for Your Needs
Understanding Your Legal Rights in Kansas City
When you are hurt in a crash, Kansas law protects your rights. You can seek money for your injuries and losses. This money is called compensation.
You can claim money for medical bills, lost wages, car repairs, pain, and suffering. The other driver or their insurance usually pays this money if they caused the crash.
You do not have to pay your own medical bills if the other driver is at fault. The law lets you get compensation to cover these costs.
Filing an Insurance Claim
The first step is usually to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company. You must report the accident to them and give details.
Insurance companies will investigate the claim. They might try to pay less than you deserve. Never accept a settlement offer before talking to a lawyer.
Keep copies of all documents. This includes medical records, bills, police reports, and communications with insurance.
When to Hire a Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer
Not every crash needs a lawyer. But serious injuries or disputed fault make legal help wise.
A lawyer understands Kansas laws and insurance tricks. They can handle all paperwork and talk to insurance adjusters for you. This lets you focus on recovery.
A lawyer will review your case and advise you on your best options. They can help if the insurance company denies your claim or offers too little.
Act quickly. Kansas law limits how long you have to file a lawsuit—usually two years. Waiting too long can hurt your case.
Types of Compensation You Can Get
You can ask for money to cover many kinds of losses after a crash:
- Medical bills and future treatment costs
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Lost income if you missed work
- Pain and emotional distress
- Repair or replacement of your car
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Each case is unique. A lawyer can help calculate fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
How Kansas’ Fault Rules Affect Your Case
Kansas follows a “comparative fault” rule. This means your payout is reduced by your share of fault in the crash.
For example, if you were 20% responsible, your payment is reduced by 20%. This rule encourages fairness but means you must be careful about your actions.
Protecting Your Rights: Key Steps
- Get medical care right away
- Report the crash to police
- Take photos and gather evidence
- Write down your account of the crash
- Notify your own insurance company right away.
- Don’t assign blame or admit fault.
- First, consult with a car accident attorney.
By following these steps, you maximize your claim and protect your rights.
Why Hire a Local Kansas City Lawyer?
Local Kansas City Car Accident Lawyers know Kansas laws well. They understand local courts and how insurance companies operate in the area.
They can quickly respond to your needs. They also know which medical experts or investigators to use. This local knowledge helps build a strong case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to see a doctor
- Not calling the police or filing a report
- Giving recorded statements without legal advice
- Accepting the first insurance offer too fast
- Ignoring symptoms of injury
- Handling the case alone without a lawyer
Avoiding these errors keeps your rights safe and improves your chances of fair compensation.
What if the Other Driver Is Uninsured
Unfortunately, some people drive uninsured. This can certainly complicate claims, but don’t let it scare you unnecessarily.
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, it may cover your injuries and damages. If you want to look into this, speak with your insurance agent.
An attorney can evaluate your options and what type of legal recourse you may have for compensation.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies want to settle claims cheaply. They may call you soon after the crash to ask questions.
Answer carefully. Do not admit fault or give too much detail. Say you want to speak to a lawyer first.
Keep records of all calls and letters from insurance. Share these with your lawyer.
When to settle?
Settling is to resolve with a payment agreement to conclude the case. Some cases settle quickly while others take months or more to settle.
Don’t settle too quickly and settle for more than the offer if medical bills and expenses, lost wages, and pain.
If the offer is too low, the lawyer can negotiate a larger settlement.
Can You Sue the Other Driver?
If the insurance does not pay fairly, you can file a lawsuit. This asks a court to decide how much money you should get.
Filing a lawsuit takes time and can be stressful. But sometimes it is the best way to get justice.
Your lawyer will guide you through this process.
How Long Do You Have to Act?
Kansas law usually gives two years from the crash date to file a lawsuit. This is called the “statute of limitations.”
If you miss this deadline, your case may be lost forever.
Don’t wait to get help. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident.
FAQs
1. How quickly should I see a doctor after a car accident in Kansas City?
See a doctor right away. Some injuries don’t show up until later. Seeing a doctor right away helps your health and your legal case.
2. Can I file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Kansas law reduces your payout based on a percentage of fault, but does not bar your claim.
3. What if the other driver is uninsured?
You can use your uninsured motorist coverage, or contact a lawyer to see what else can be done to get you money.
4. How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
You usually have two years from the date of the accident to file. Don’t wait, contact a lawyer ASAP.
5. Will my case go to court?
Most cases settle, but if necessary, your lawyer can take your case to trial for you to get a fair payment.
Endnote
It only takes seconds for a car crash to alter your life. If you are hurt in a car crash, in Kansas City, you need to know your rights. Your first step is to get medical treatment. Your second step is to gather the facts and next get a lawyer. There are laws that can help you to attain a recovery for injuries and damages. Timing is important, and the sooner you act in a reasonable manner, the more likely your outcome will be what you want. If you want to talk with someone regarding your Kansas City auto accident and injuries, you should contact a local lawyer. Most lawyers have a free consultation, and will be happy to talk to you about your case and questions. This article will serve to provide general information and overview regarding your rights and choices after your car crash. Safety and health is the most important thing to consider in any accident. By making the appropriate first steps, you will be able to utilize the legal practice system for assistance.
