A motor vehicle accident on a quiet St. Louis street can change lives in an instant. Whether you’re dealing with a car accident in St. Louis or need an accident attorney near me, you need specialized legal help. At Bradley Law, we have traffic accident lawyers near you who will get you the compensation you’re entitled to.
After a car accident, the road to justice and fair compensation is very complicated. Insurance companies hire big defense firms to question legitimate claims, often with dirty tricks. Getting full compensation for your serious injuries requires an experienced car accident attorney who knows how to expose the defense’s lies. That’s what we do.
If you were injured, Bradley Law can help. Call our office at (314) 400-0000 to get started. We’ve gotten top settlements and verdicts for our clients in St. Louis and we can get the same for you.
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How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Car Accident Attorney St. Louis MO
Hiring the best traffic accident attorney in St. Louis doesn’t cost you a thing. Bradley Law’s “no win, no fee” policy means you pay nothing if we don’t get you compensation. Our traffic accident attorney near you handle complex cases and we don’t charge upfront fees. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or reckless conduct, we offer free consultations. You can meet with an attorney, discuss your case and get your options without paying any fee. The expertise of experienced personal injury attorneys is crucial in handling complex cases and ensuring fair representation.
We work on a contingency fee basis. Simply put, that means you pay nothing if we don’t get you compensation, whether through a settlement or a verdict. If we don’t get you anything, you owe us nothing (not even our out of pocket costs). This fee structure allows injured people to pursue justice without taking on the financial risk of upfront legal fees.
Hiring Bradley Law on a contingency fee basis is a big relief for those dealing with the financial stress of medical bills and lost wages. We have one goal in mind- getting you maximum compensation. Because we have a financial stake in your case, we work with you as a team. In short, our personal injury lawyers make the process easier, we don’t add to your burdens during already difficult times.
Why an Auto Injury Attorneys Expertise Matters After a Crash
Getting expert legal help from the best car accident attorneys is crucial after a crash. Our St. Louis traffic lawyer team knows the ins and outs of accident cases, including how to navigate complex insurance claims and defend against insurance company tricks. At Bradley Law, our car lawyer team has the experience to handle your case and protect your rights. Our traffic accident attorney near you will fight for your rights and get you the compensation you’re entitled to.
The post-crash landscape is complicated and requires legal knowledge. An experienced car accident lawyer knows how to decipher complex insurance policies, Missouri car accident laws and strategize for maximum compensation. Filing a car accident injury claim is a crucial step in securing compensation for damages caused by the negligence of others. Without this guidance, many injury victims may miss out on important legal rights and settle for too little.
Handling the process yourself can lead to costly mistakes that can reduce your compensation or unnecessairly delay your claim. On top of this, insurance adjusters don’t take self-represented parties seriously and will attempt to take advantage of you. Often, clients come to us thinking they settled their property damage claim but upon further reading of the release they signed, they actually gave up their entire injury case. We highly recommend you never speak with an insurance adjuster after a crash.
While every case is different, having an attorney on your side means thorough representation and informed decisions. This level of expertise gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on healing, knowing your legal rights are protected.
Missouri’s Fault-Based Car Accident Laws
In Missouri, car accidents are fault-based and the at-fault party’s insurance pays for damages and a car crash lawyer can help you navigate this process to get fair compensation. This system emphasizes the importance of fault assignment.
Missouri’s comparative negligence rule allows victims to get compensation even if they are partly at fault. But, the recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault. This is usually a major can be a source of contention.
Determining fault is complex and requires gathering detailed evidence. Lawyers use eyewitness accounts, traffic footage and expert analysis to ensure fair fault allocation and protect victims’ compensation.
One of the common things we see is insurance adjusters claiming comparative fault for not wearing a seatbelt and reducing settlement offers accordingly. Often, someone will come to us with $50,000 in medical bills but the insurance adjuster reduced the offer 50% to $25,000 because they weren’t wearing their seatbelt. For the unsuspecting car accident victim, this seems reasonable. But, the reality is Missouri law only allows a 1% reduction for not wearing a seatbelt. This is just one of the many ways we see insurance adjusters mislead car accident victims and further proves the need for an attorney.
What can a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer do for me?
A St. Louis car accident lawyer is your advocate in the legal maze of your claim. They bring expertise and decades of experience to your case.
They will gather evidence for you, the foundation of your case. They will use that evidence to negotiate for you, so you get fair compensation. Car accident injury cases require thorough evidence gathering and negotiation. A lawyer’s knowledge of how to counter insurance company tactics is key to getting fair compensation.
If a settlement can’t be reached your lawyer must be prepared to file your case and try it to a jury.
Initial Consultation and Case Review
The initial consultation is the first step to getting justice. During this free consultation, the lawyer will listen carefully, drilling down into every detail of your accident. They will review important documents like police reports and medical records to develop a solid legal strategy for your case. We will explain your legal rights, the challenges in your case and how to overcome them. This free consultation gives you a chance to ask questions, discuss concerns and get a better understanding of the legal issues you face. Building a good working relationship with your lawyer is key.
Gather Evidence and Build Your Case
Gathering evidence is a critical part of building a case for fair compensation for your serious injuries.
We will collect and organize important documents such as medical records, eyewitness statements and detailed police reports. We will often hire investigators to do some of the investigation. For other parts of the investigation, we use FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests which often provide valuable information about other crashes, recalls or other prior incidents. Through this process other potential defendants can be identified that were not initially considered.
For example, in a recent case everyone just assumed the lady who turned in front of our cliient was 100% at fault. Indeed, she failed to yield the right of way. However, we believed the intersection was defectively designed and did not comply with AASHTO intersection sight guidelines. So, we hired a team of experts to investigate the intersection design. It was determined a large sign in the median blocked motorist vision, in violation of AASHTO. This deprived our client from being able to avoid the crash. With this evidence, we turned a $250,000 case into a $14,250,000 case. Thinking outside the box is what we do.
This is just one of many examples of how our auto injury lawyers go beyond the obvious. With the evidence your legal team can build a story that works for you.
The Claims Process and Dealing with Insurance Companies
For non-lawyers, dealing with State Farm, Allstate, Geico and others is often scary. But, it is critical to getting the compensation you deserve. Navigating the claims process requires a deep understanding of the legal process. From filing your claim to final negotiations we will be with you every step of the way.
Filing an Insurance Claim
Filing a claim after a car accident is complicated. That is why you need a traffic accident attorney who will handle all communication with adjusters. By using proven negotiation tactics, we can beat lowball offers and show the full extent of your damages.
Making a Demand on the Insurance Company
During the initial phase your attorney will gather all the documentation, often called a “demand package”. This is a summary and a persuasive argument of your injuries, costs and why you deserve compensation. As this unfolds negotiations with the insurance company or their attorney take place and your lawyer’s expertise is invaluable in getting you fair compensation. If negotiations stall a well prepared escalation to court proceedings will make sure all avenues are explored. Missouri recently changed the law on how demands must be presented to insurance companies. Failure to follow specific Missouri statutes could bar you from getting pre-judgment interest or from pursuing a bad faith case if the insurer acts unreasonably.
Insurance companies commonly use a “deny, defend, delay” strategy. A good injury lawyer knows the deadlines for first party and third party insurance companies to respond to claims. Under Missouri law, 20 CSR 100-1.050 sets forth the “Standards for Prompt, Fair and Equitable Settlement of Claims” for first party insurance claims. For third party claims, there is no Missouri statute or regulation addressing timelines. But, demands can be sent with a 90 day deadline which is deemed reasonable by operation of RSMO 537.058. Making insurance claims without knowledge of the applicable deadlines can be a major detriment to your claim which adjusters will exploit.
For this reason we make sure every demand package complies with RSMO 537.058 and RSMO 408.040.
How you can get the best possible result:
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Open Communication: Start all communications through your lawyer to keep everything on the same page and avoid miscommunication.
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Document Everything: Keep records of all correspondence, including emails, letters and calls.
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Be Careful: Never give a recorded statement without your lawyer’s guidance and presence.
Adjusters will try to limit payouts; your lawyer will prevent that. Trust your lawyer to negotiate for you and make sure your claim reflects all of your damages.
Trial Representation
When negotiations fail, expert trial representation is crucial to getting justice and full compensation. Here is what you can expect from our trial lawyers:
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Preparation: The lawyer will prepare the case for trial, gathering and organizing all the evidence.
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Presentation: In court they will present a clear story, using witness testimony and expert opinions.
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Cross-Examination: They will question opposing witnesses to find inaccuracies or inconsistencies.
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Closing Arguments: The lawyer will summarize the case and reiterate the key points to the judge or jury.
Good auto injury attorneys know how to adjust their strategy as the trial unfolds. Effective representation can make a big difference in the outcome of the trial and protect your rights and interests.
We represent clients across the country, holding negligent drivers, employers and corporations accountable for their negligence. Whether we’re practicing in rural Missouri, our home city of St. Louis or anywhere else in the country we will make sure all the critical issues in the case are recognized by all parties involved. Our advocacy goes beyond the courtroom, we will be with you every step of the way throughout the entire process.
We are highly trained and experienced in personal injury law. With years of courtroom experience, extensive legal and scientific research and connections within the legal community we can guide your case to a successful outcome.
Having an attorney by your side in a personal injury case is key. Studies have shown that people with an attorney get more money than those who represent themselves. According to the All-Industry Research Advisory Council, clients with an attorney got 40% more in settlements and the Insurance Research Council found that represented clients got 85% of all settlements paid by insurers– 3 times more than unrepresented individuals.
What to Look for in a Top Car Accident Attorney
When you’re looking for a top car accident attorney in St. Louis you want to make sure that person will give you one on one attention and has a history of getting top results. Often, those attorneys will be published year after year in the Missouri Lawyers Weekly for big settlements and verdicts. Many lawyers display those articles in their office that describe the case and the result. When you visit our own personal injury law firm or office you will see those on nearly every wall in our lobby, conference rooms, hallways and in our private offices.
The top attorneys build a real relationship with you. They need to know your story and how it affected your life. The best lawyers never lose sight that you are the most important person in the process.
Is Filing a Personal Injury Claim Worth It?
Before deciding if a claim is worth pursuing you need to talk to an experienced attorney. Many accident victims underestimate the strength of their case at first but a good car accident lawyer in St. Louis can give you valuable guidance. By going over the details of your situation an experienced lawyer will outline the pros and cons of your claim so you can make an informed decision. Having this conversation will make sure you understand your options and can move forward with confidence. Car accident injuries can lead to significant medical expenses and the need for legal representation to ensure adequate compensation.
Of course there are cases that don’t warrant a personal injury lawsuit. Litigation is very expensive and while Missouri law allows for taxable court costs to be paid back (if you win) other costs like expert fees are never paid back even if you win. The flip side of that is if the defense wins you could end up paying their taxable court costs. For this reason your injury lawyer will make sure you have a good case before you file.
Evidence
When you are in a car accident gathering evidence is a key part of building your claim. Every piece of evidence documented can help your case. Effective evidence gathering means collecting police reports which is an official account of what happened. This gives you an unbiased third party perspective to support your claim.
Besides police reports getting medical records (past and current) is crucial. They give you a full picture of the physical and emotional impact of the accident. These records support your claim for compensation for the injuries you sustained.
Photographic evidence of the accident scene captures the details that can make or break liability. Photos of vehicle damage, road conditions and traffic signs can help support your story.
Working with an experienced lawyer ensures evidence is gathered and organized. Their expertise will make your claim more credible and get you a better case for compensation. Consulting a traffic accident attorney near you can also provide local insights and support.
Timeframes to File A Missouri Personal Injury Lawsuit (Statute of Limitation)
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is 5 years from the date of the accident. This means you must file suit within this time frame to preserve your right to seek compensation afterwards. But, there are other timeframes to consider.
If your claim is against a municipality, under Missouri law you must give notice to the municipality within 90 days to preserve any case for the defective condition of a bridge, street, sidewalk, etc. If you don’t do this you could forever damage your case. For first party insurance claims, contracts of insurance require timely notification to your own insurer. If you don’t timely notify your insurer, you could forfeit benefits.
We Get Some of the Biggest Car Accident Results in St. Louis
Our firm gets amazing results. We are known for big settlements and verdicts.
Our team of attorneys knows the ins and outs of car accident cases so we can handle even the toughest cases. We get some of the biggest car accident results in St. Louis and will hold the negligent parties accountable and make sure our clients get what they deserve. We leave no stone unturned.
By using current legal strategies and gathering all the evidence we build strong cases that can be taken to court. Our knowledge of Missouri car accident law and our negotiation skills allow us to get results that match the full extent of our clients’ injuries and damages.
We show our dedication to excellence by the personal attention we give to each case, every accident is as unique as the person it affects. We want to make a difference in our clients lives and won’t settle for anything less.
How Bradley Law Can Help After a Car Accident in St. Louis, Missouri
Bradley Law has been recognized by The Missouri Lawyers’ Weekly multiple times for winning big awards. Our proven track record of record setting verdicts and settlements are a testament to our experience, skill and passion.
When you hire Bradley Law to represent you in your case, you get the best accident attorney and the best St. Louis lawyer on your side.
When we start working for you we will:
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Review the police reports and investigative documents
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Examine evidence, body-cam and dash-cam footage, photo and video surveillance
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Identify witnesses and first responders
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Develop a plan and involve you in the process
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Consult with experts who can testify for you
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Handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance companies
If we can’t get a good offer from the insurance company we won’t hesitate to file a lawsuit and try your case to a jury. Our personal injury team includes top notch litigators who know the law and the Missouri court system.
We will be aggressive and persistent for you. Your input is always welcome as we move forward with your case. We want you to be confident in how we’re handling the case. We take care of the legal stuff so you can focus on getting better and getting your life back to normal.
Contact Bradley Law today for a free consultation with a car wreck lawyer who can explain the law and get you the compensation you deserve. We think once you meet with us and learn more about our personal injury practice you’ll see why we’re the choice in St. Louis.
What is Negligence?
Negligence is when someone’s actions or inactions fail to meet the expected standard of care. For example, all drivers have a duty to act with care and prevent harm to others on the road. If a driver is texting and causes an accident they may be negligent for breaching their duty of care and liable for the victim’s injuries and damages.
Personal injury law allows victims to hold individuals or entities accountable when their reckless or careless behavior hurts them. In Missouri to bring a claim you must typically prove:
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The defendant had a duty to the plaintiff
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The defendant breached that duty
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The breach caused the accident or injury
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The plaintiff was damaged as a result
Our personal injury lawyers help prove this by conducting investigations, gathering evidence and presenting the claim in a way that gives us the best chance of success. A traffic accident attorney can be crucial in demonstrating negligence and securing compensation for the victim.
Car Accident Statistics in St. Louis, Missouri
According to the most recent data from the Missouri Department of Transportation, St. Louis had 171 car crash fatalities 2016-2018. That’s 6.11% of the 2800 car accident fatalities in the state during those years.
There were also 803 serious injuries from car accidents in St. Louis 2016-2018 which is 5.6% of the statewide total.
St. Louis Car Accident Facts
Every year, a joint taskforce releases a report that details car crash statistics in the St. Louis metropolitan area (City and County combined). The “2023 St. Louis City and County Crash Report” statistics were alarming:
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5382 people were affected by car crashes with 5366 people injured (a decrease from 2022);
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46 deaths within passenger cars (a decrease from 2022);
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243 pedestrians affected with 8 killed and 225 injured (an increase from 2022);
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61 bicyclists affected with 49 of those injured.
2023 St. Louis City and County Crash Report_Page_06
Where Do Most Car Accidents Occur in St. Louis?
There are many factors that contribute to certain roads and highways being more dangerous. Traffic volume, speed limits and visibility all come into play.
The following roads in the St. Louis area are the most deadly:
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Highway 110 near De Soto
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Highway 30 between Lakenny Lane and High Ridge Boulevard
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Page Avenue in Wellston
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Interstate 70 between Union Boulevard and Salisbury Street
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Natural Bridge Avenue between Hamilton Avenue and Farrar Street
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I-270 in North County
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Interstate 44 from Yarnell Road in Fenton to Lewis Road
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Highway 141 between Burgundy Lane and Carman Road
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Interstate 55 from Meramec Bottom Road to near Bayless Avenue, south St. Louis County
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North Lindbergh Boulevard between West Washington Street in Florissant and Robbins Mill Road
According to the National Traffic Safety Administration these areas had the most fatal crashes per mile in 2015 and 2016.
How Much is My Car Accident Case Worth?
Car accident settlements can’t be estimated without a full investigation. Any injury attorney who says otherwise is not being honest and is probably violating the rules of professional conduct. Rule 4-7.1 entitled “Communication Concerning A Lawyer’s Services” states a lawyer can’t make a false or misleading statement to a client which includes statements “likely to create an unjustified expectation about results the lawyer can achieve.” In short, no auto injury attorney can tell you what your case is worth until they do a full investigation.
We are often asked to estimate what a wrongful death or injury car accident case is worth. Our answer is always the same: Let us do a free investigation for you. If we can help we will fight for the best possible result. If we can’t help there is no charge.
As part of our free car accident case review we consider:
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The extent of your injuries and medical bills, past and future;
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If the other driver was drunk you may be able to recover punitive damages;
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How long you were out of work and how much money you lost;
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Pain;
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Suffering;
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Disability;
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Were you wearing a seat belt as required by Missouri law (Missouri law allows for up to 1% reduction in damages for not wearing a seat belt);
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Your pre-existing conditions;
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Are there other potential third party claims against cities, MoDot, etc.
Considering these and other factors we can fairly and accurately estimate the value of your case by comparing it to our past results and other published verdicts and settlements. We often look at recent jury verdicts in the county where your crash occurred. The Missouri Lawyer’s Weekly is a subscription only publication that contains jury verdict reports. We subscribe to this service and monitor it regularly.
What Damages Are Available To Car Accident Victims?
Damages in a personal injury case such as a car accident are divided into two categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Losses that can be assigned a dollar figure are called economic damages. These compensate for your financial losses resulting from an injury.
They include:
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Medical bills
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Physical therapy
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Income loss
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Home modifications
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Medical equipment such as wheelchairs
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Household services
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Vehicle modifications
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In-home nursing care
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Travel to and from doctor appointments
Out of pocket expenses such as parking or rental fees are also economic damages.
Non-Economic Damages
When losses are more subjective and can’t be assigned a dollar figure they’re called non-economic damages. These damages compensate for the emotional impact of an accident.
Non-economic damages include losses such as:
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Losing a limb
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Emotional distress
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Limited mobility
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Disfigurement
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Physical scarring
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Loss of one or more senses
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Mental anguish
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Embarrassment
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Loss of companionship
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Cognitive dysfunction
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Loss of enjoyment of life
We know what to look for in calculating your total damages. You can trust Bradley Law to make sure we include all of your losses in our demand for damages.
How an Auto Injury Lawyer Can Get You More
A St. Louis car accident attorney can make a big difference in your settlement and protect your interests.
An experienced lawyer knows the legal, insurance and medical aspects of a claim. With knowledge of Missouri’s fault based laws they can look at the full scope of your expenses and losses, including long term medical needs and future lost earnings which are often missed by insurance adjusters.
Additionally they have a network of highly trained professionals that can help explain your case, like accident reconstruction experts, biomechanical engineers, epidemiologists, surgeons, life care planners, etc. By using these resources they can challenge lowball offers and present testimony that matches the facts and steer the negotiation towards a better result.
How do insurance companies value St. Louis car wreck cases?
Insurance companies take all of the above into consideration when determining how much your car crash case is worth. Then the insurance adjuster looks at the St. Louis auto accident attorney representing the victim. Insurers know which auto accident lawyers take cases to trial and win. If you hire an auto accident injury lawyer that is a “settlement mill” you will get a mediocre offer. You must thoroughly research the injury law firm and make sure they have a strong litigation record and actually try jury cases. If you want the best Missouri car accident attorney who tries jury cases and wins call Bradley Law.
Can I get compensation if I’m at fault in a car accident in Missouri?
Missouri is a pure comparative fault state (See RSMO 537.765). You can recover for your accident injuries even if you were at fault in the accident. But, your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault in causing the crash, you will end up with only 80% of what your case would have been worth.
It is in the auto insurance company’s interest to put blame on you. The more you are at fault, the less they owe you.
The most common comparative fault affirmative defenses are:
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Plaintiff’s own negligence. They will say the plaintiff caused the accident;
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Failure to use safety devices. They will say the plaintiff didn’t wear a seatbelt or in a motorcycle crash they will say the plaintiff didn’t wear a helmet;
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Failure to mitigate damages. They will say the plaintiff didn’t get medical treatment which could have reduced their damages;
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Intervening / Superceding causes. They will say a third party’s negligence intervened or their own negligence was superseded.
Knowing and applying these laws an experienced attorney can argue to reduce your percentage of fault. This directly affects the amount of compensation you will receive and protects your rights even if you are at fault.
By navigating these laws correctly victims can still get large settlements and fair recovery despite shared fault.
How Fault is Calculated in Missouri
In Missouri fault is determined after a car accident by considering all the evidence. It often involves working with police reports, eyewitness testimony and possibly accident reconstruction experts who can show how the accident happened. These experts work hard to recreate the accident scene and provide valuable information that helps determine liability. Every piece of evidence matters in determining fault.
Fault directly affects the amount of compensation victims receive.
Types of St. Louis Car Accident Cases We Handle
Our traffic accident lawyers handle all types of cases including rear end collisions, side impact crashes and head on collisions. Whether you need a collision lawyer for a complex case or an auto collision attorney for a simple claim Bradley Law can help.
Rear end collisions often result in whiplash injuries which is a common and painful injury.
Severe impacts like head on collisions result in catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical treatment.
Intersection accidents are complicated and often involve multiple drivers and liability issues.
Commercial truck cases require knowledge of specific regulations and precise legal maneuvering to hold the liable parties accountable.
Hit and run cases are unique but our team is good at finding and prosecuting the responsible driver.
Type of Injuries from Car Accidents
Our St. Louis car accident lawyers have helped clients with all kinds of serious injuries including:
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Spinal Cord Injury lawyers
- Whiplash / Soft tissue Sprains & Strains
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Contusions
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Paralysis / Spinal Cord Injury
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Closed head injuries / Concussions
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Organ damage
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Internal bleeding
No matter what serious injury you have from your car accident Bradley Law will get you the resources you need to recover from those injuries. We can also help you with a wrongful death claim if you lost a loved one due to a driver’s negligence in an accident.
St. Louis Car Accident Causes
St. Louis streets are busy and present many hazards. Distracted driving is a huge problem and one we see often. Speed makes things worse and collisions more severe. Impaired driving is still a problem despite the laws. Weather related accidents add complexity as drivers often misjudge what’s safe in the rain or snow. Knowing these causes allows us to develop a strategy for each situation to get you the best possible outcome
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of St. Louis traffic accidents and often involves divided attention on something other than driving.
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Texting or Using a Phone: A quick glance at the phone can be devastating.
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Eating or Drinking: Handling food or a drink takes your attention away from the road.
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Adjusting Radio Settings: Internal vehicle adjustments can be a momentary distraction.
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Conversing with Passengers: Talking to passengers can take your attention off the road.
We need to address distracted driving and use the law to make our streets safer in St. Louis.
If hit by a distracted driver a St. Louis car accident lawyer can get you compensation for your damages.
Speeding
It is no suprise that speeding makes car and truck accidents more severe. The force of a crash is a byproduct of the vehicle’s mass multiplied by its acceleration (or speed).
Racing against the clock causes drivers to ignore the traffic laws. The thrill of breaking the speed limit can be deadly. Accident reconstruction experts often play a key role in showing the impact of speeding and documenting the negligence of the at fault driver. Often, electronic control modules (ECM) contain data that document a car’s speed in the moments before crash. We ensure those ECMs are downloaded so evidence is preserved.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence is obviously dangerous. In St. Louis DUI accidents happen all too often despite the tough laws to prevent impaired driving. These accidents often result in severe injuries leaving victims with big medical and financial bills.
For drunk driving accident victims the legal process can be overwhelming but it’s important to hold the drunk driver accountable. Beyond that, if a bar or tavern served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person, they could be liable in a dram shop claim. We can guide you through the complexities of these cases and seek punitive damages as well as compensatory damages.
Weather Related Accidents
Weather in St. Louis can change in an instant and affect driver visibility and road safety. From heavy rain to icy winter roads weather can be a factor in car accidents. Bad weather requires drivers to be more cautious, adjust their speed and driving habits to the conditions. Unfortunately not all drivers do and accidents happen. Rain, snow and fog are just a few examples of weather events that demand attention. St. Louis drivers also need to watch out for black ice, a hidden danger that can cause loss of control of your vehicle.
We will look at weather reports and road conditions when building your case. These factors when properly analyzed can prove negligence in weather related accidents and get you full compensation. Ultimately understanding how weather affects road behavior is key in litigation.
What to do after a car accident in St. Louis
First, get to safety. Check for any injuries that need immediate attention. If you can call 911, do so. If you cannot, ask someone to do it for you.
A quick response means medical help can get to anyone injured and police can document the scene. This documentation is key to supporting your claims later on and will be the foundation of your case.
If you can, exchange information with all other drivers and any witnesses present including names, contact info and insurance information. If a witness will not give you their information, write down the license place of the car they are driving. Lawyers have tools to reverse search license place to get the registered owner’s identity.
Last, if you are able, take photos of the scene, vehicles, injuries and road conditions. These photos will support your claim.
After an accident, it is appropriate to seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured. When adrenaline is flowing, some people do not realize how injured they are. Further, some people have died from internal injuries that were not believed to be “serious” at the time.
Last, contact a lawyer to protect your legal rights and navigate the complex process ahead.
Bradley Law Handles All Types of Car Accident Cases
The St. Louis car accident lawyers at Bradley Law have handled all types of motor vehicle accidents. Each accident is different and we know what’s involved.
Our car crash lawyer near you handles all types of auto accidents, from rear-end to side-impact and multi-vehicle crashes. The types of cases we’ve handled:
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Crashes caused by roadway defects
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Single vehicle accidents
We have handled thousands of auto accidents. Our experienced and knowledgeable auto injury attorneys have you covered.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a car wreck in Missouri?
The statute of limitations is the time limit in which you must file a lawsuit. This time limit is set by state law and is in place to ensure evidence is still available and witnesses can remember details.
Missouri has a 5 year statute of limitations for injury producing car accidents. For wrongful deaths from a car accident, it is 3 years. It may seem like you have plenty of time but the sooner you get started the better. The sooner you get started the more likely you are to build a strong case.
What if I was driving for work when my car accident happened?
If you were in a car accident while working, you may be eligible for workers comp benefits through your employer. Filing for workers comp has its own set of rules and deadlines so get started sooner rather than later. You can file a workers comp claim at the same time you file a civil claim against the at-fault driver. However, any payments made by the workers comp insurer are subject to subrogation from the third party’s insurer.
Our personal injury lawyers at Bradley Law have years of experience with workers’ comp cases. We’ll sit down with you and explain how the process works. We’ll also get evidence to support your claim if the insurance company tries to argue your driving wasn’t work related.
Call us to talk to our team about filing a workers’ comp claim if you were driving for work. We’ll walk you through the process and help you figure out if you’re entitled to workers’ comp.
Car Accident Laws in St. Louis
When dealing with car accident laws, knowing the Missouri statutes that govern these types of cases can make a big difference in your case. Most lawyers do not consider St. Louis local ordinances as a source of establishing duty. While these ordinances don’t make much difference in most cases, in the right case they can go a long way in establishing additional duties of care.
For example, St. Louis ordinance 17.08.030 entitled “Obedience to traffic-control devices—Exceptions” states “No provision of this chapter for which official traffic control devices are required shall be enforced against an alleged violator if at the time and place of the alleged violation an official device is not in proper position and sufficiently legible to be seen by an ordinarily observant person.” In a case we settled for $14,250,000 this ordinance was instrumental in reducing the comparative fault of the other driver because the traffic signal did not comply with this ordinance. This allowed us to shift the focus back to the company that installed a vision-blocking sign that impaired motorists vision.
At Bradley Law we’ll make sure you can face any dispute and get the justice you’re owed.
Insurance Claims Process
Insurance claims are tough to navigate when you’re still reeling from the accident.
Make sure all documentation is accurate and timely including medical records and police reports. A lawyer can simplify this process for you and walk you through the maze of legal requirements.
They’ll negotiate on your behalf for a settlement that meets your needs.
Beating the Insurance Company
Insurance companies will do whatever they can to pay out as little as possible to claimants.
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Know Their Tricks: They’ll delay responses to wear you down. (We know, we used to work for them.)
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Get Strong Evidence: Present strong documentation to counter their lowball offers.
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Be Clear: Be concise and assertive in all communication.
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Talk to Your Lawyer: Let professionals handle the heavy lifting for you.
With guidance you can face these challenges. Your lawyer will make sure you’re treated fairly.
This will get you the compensation you’re owed and feeling justice.
How a Lawyer Beats the Adjuster
Insurance negotiations are complex. Lawyers know exactly how to spot and neutralize the insurance adjuster’s tricks to pay as little as possible.
Experienced lawyers can recognize common tactics like delay or lowball offers that are utilized by adjusters in auto accidents. They break down these offers by comparing them to your actual damages and future expenses. This thorough approach makes sure every aspect of your claim is scrutinized so you get a fair settlement.
When adjusters try to downplay your injuries or question their severity, lawyers use medical evidence and expert opinions to back you up. They know how to use medical records and expert testimony to support your claim. They have a network of medical professionals to present strong evidence to support your injuries.
Adjusters will try to shift blame or question the incident but a lawyer will turn the tables by methodically tearing down their arguments. They’ll use accident reconstruction experts when needed to present a clear and undeniable picture of what happened. By documenting everything they’ll make sure the insurance company’s version of events matches the truth so you’re protected.
Knowing the adjuster’s playbook means lawyers are in control, so negotiations are driven by facts not tricks. During negotiations your lawyer will make sure every conversation is evidence based. This will strengthen your case and not just get you a fair settlement but also make sure you won’t get outsmarted in the pursuit of justice.
Insurance Strategies
Insurance companies will do whatever they can to pay out as little as possible after a car accident. They have a deep understanding of claims and adjusters who are highly trained to dispute. Here are some of the worst:
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Pre-existing conditions. They’ll try to downplay the injuries or say you had a pre-existing condition. This tactic is to weaken your claim by saying the accident didn’t cause your injuries. A recent record of treatment to the same body part may be relevant but claiming you had the same injury 10+ years ago and fully recovered is unfair.
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Quick Cash. Another common trick is to pressure victims to settle quickly before the full extent of the injuries is known. Quick settlements mean less money so be wary of early offers.
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Under value Property Damage. Adjusters will fail to properly value severe property damage (like frame damage to a car) so they can say it was a minor impact.
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Cite Minimal Vehicle Damage. Correlate crash severity with injury risk, injury severity and long-term symptoms in low velocity motor vehicle collisions despite published articles that debunk this myth. A November 2005 article entitled “Correlating crash severity with injury risk, injury severity and long-term symptoms in low velocity motor vehicle collisions” addressed this very issue and the researchers concluded “A substantial number of injuries are reported in crashes of little or no property damage. Property damage is an unreliable predictor of injury risk or outcome in low velocity crashes.”
Negotiating a Fair Settlement: Tips and Tricks
To negotiate a fair settlement start by documenting all accident related expenses. Medical bills, repair costs and other financial impacts will strengthen your position when discussing settlement figures. Also prepare to counter low offers by outlining the full extent of your damages including emotional distress and any future medical expenses and care.
Consider hiring experts to support your claim – whether it’s accident reconstruction or medical opinions – to present irrefutable evidence. With strong documentation and expert testimony you can shut down their attempts to downplay your injuries. A law firm will commonly spend tens of thousands of dollars in expert fees on an average case. This is beacuse doctors typically charge $1500 to $2000 per hour just to take their deposition.
Time is of the essence in settlement negotiations. Insurance adjusters will use delay tactics to get you to take low offers. Adjusters will use your financial situation against you. While your injury lawyer can’t lend you money while your case is pending, third party lenders can help you so you don’t have to take a low offer. We can help you get a litigating funding loan if needed.
If all else fails, mediation is commonly used in St. Louis to get a fair settlement. There are several mediation facilities in St. Louis, like United States Arbitration & Mediation in downtown St. Louis that have experienced mediators to help settle your case. Often these are retired judges who know the value of a personal injury case.
How to Choose the Best St. Louis Car Accident Law Firm
Choosing the right St. Louis car accident lawyer or car accident lawyer near me is more than just a quick search online. Look at their experience, a list of successful results and client testimonials to get a full picture of their results.
Look for someone who focuses primarily on car accident and personal injury cases. This specialization means they know the intricacies of these types of cases. Look at their website. Do they say they are a “jack of all trades?” Do they handle criminal cases as well as personal injury? If so that’s a red flag.
Ask about their courtroom experience, their last jury trial and to see the exhibits they prepared for the jury. At Bradley Law we often spend over $25,000 in trial exhibits. We can show you those exhibits and explain how they helped the case.
The law firm should offer a free consultation to evaluate your case without obligation. It’s an opportunity to see how they work and if it’s a good fit for you.
In the end you want to choose a lawyer who is not only reputable but empathetic. A dedicated legal advocate will fight hard for you with the resources to do so.
Evidence Gathering
In a personal injury claim evidence gathering is key to building a strong case for you. It proves your claims and captures the details of the incident. A smart approach is to gather detailed documentation like police reports, medical records and witness statements which together paint a picture of the accident and support your position and get you the compensation you deserve.
Witness Statements
In any St. Louis case witness statements are key evidence. Attorneys often prioritize getting witness statements because they can corroborate other evidence gathered. This includes comparing statements with traffic camera footage or police reports. These statements can provide important details of what happened. Witnesses can provide information on the sequence of events. These observations can really help your case. If a witness decides to later change their story, you can impeach them with their prior statement.
Witness statements can be the key to proving fault or negligence in a courtroom. A seasoned St. Louis car accident lawyer will present these statements to tell a clear story of what happened to support your claim. Remember, getting witness statements timely can make all the difference in proving your case.
Photographic Evidence
Getting clear photographic evidence is key to a strong case.
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Document Vehicle Damage: Take pictures of all vehicles involved, focusing on the damage.
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Capture the Accident Scene: Get road conditions, traffic signs and any skid marks. In St. Louis there are many live traffic cameras. Your crash may have been caught on one of them.
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Photograph Injuries: Take pictures of any visible injuries.
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Include Nearby Landmarks: Help put the location of the accident in context.
Photos provide an undeniable record of the incident and help prove liability.
A detailed photo collection supports your case by showing the impact of the incident and getting you financial compensation.
Decades of Experience and Thousands of Happy Clients
At Bradley Law Firm we use the latest technology to keep our clients informed, speed up the process and get the maximum recovery in personal injury cases. From the first time you contact us you’ll see how we guide you through the process. No more waiting for paperwork or scheduling long in-person meetings just to move your case forward. We use electronic contracts and digital intake forms so we can fast track your case. We can often complete the entire intake process in 15 minutes.
Our communication channels are designed for your convenience. Whether by email, text or Zoom you’ll be updated on everything that’s happening in your case – no more wondering or waiting. Once you’re a Bradley Law client we go one step further and work with top vendors to create custom demonstrative evidence for depositions, mediations and trials so we get the maximum value out of your case at every stage.
At Bradley Law technology isn’t just a tool – it’s woven into everything we do to get results quickly and efficiently. By being ahead of the curve we make the legal process as seamless as possible so you can focus on what really matters – your recovery.
Call Our St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
We fight hard for injured clients like you. Being in a car accident is a terrible experience. The last thing you should be worrying about is money.
You should be focused on healing and recovery. We’ll handle the legal and financial headaches so you can have peace of mind. We’ll keep you informed as needed and make sure you’re involved in all the big decisions.
We take the attorney-client relationship seriously and we’re committed to providing you with great client service. We treat every client like a priority and are available 24/7/365 to answer any questions or concerns.
Call today for a free consultation with our auto injury attorneys. Learn more about how we can make a difference in your case. You pay nothing unless we win.
Client Reviews of our St. Louis Car Accident Attorneys
Our clients say it best….
Call a St. Louis Car Accident Attorneys at Bradley Law
Being in an auto accident can be overwhelming without direction. At Bradley Law we’ll help you through every step of the process so you can get back on track.
Our team knows how to handle tough cases. When you’re up against it having a St. Louis car accident attorney by your side can make a big difference in getting a fair settlement.
We specialize in gathering the critical evidence and fighting for your rights with precision and tenacity. Our attorneys work hard to build a strong case – evidence collection, expert testimony, negotiation – so your interests are always front and center.
Bradley Law is well-versed in Missouri’s comparative fault laws which is key to getting you the most compensation even if you’re partially at fault for suffered injuries. With us you’re not just a case; you’re a valued client who deserves justice and full representation. Trust us to be your rock in getting you the compensation you deserve.
Free Consultations
Looking for a traffic accident attorney or traffic law center in St. Louis MO? Call Bradley Law in St. Louis today for a free consultation. Our team of auto collision attorneys and St. Louis traffic lawyers is here to help you through your claim. Get our free consultation services today with our auto accident law firms. Our St. Louis car accident lawyers will review your case.
This no obligation consultation will give you the information you need to make informed decisions about your legal process. We believe in educating our clients through open communication and support. By talking to us about your case you’ll get expert advice that’s in line with your pursuit of justice and fair compensation.
Client Reviews
Click here to read our latest client reviews.
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Car Crash FAQs
What Should I Do Right After a Car Accident in St. Louis?
In the minutes and hours after an auto accident there are several things you should be doing that will help if you need to take legal action.
We recommend you do the following after a car accident in St. Louis:
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Stay out of danger, but stay at or near the scene
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Call 911 and wait for police and first responders to arrive
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Check on others involved in the accident and help if you can do so safely
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Give other drivers your insurance info
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Get names and contact info of any witnesses at the scene
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Do not discuss the accident or your role in it with anyone
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Call your insurance company (in some cases they require you to notify them within a certain time frame)
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If you can do so safely take pictures of the scene, injuries and vehicle damage
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Note any road conditions, weather, etc. at the scene
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Get medical attention no matter how minor you think your injuries are
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Get an auto accident attorney
Call us at Bradley Law as soon as possible after a car accident in St. Louis. We’ll be here to help and advise you on what to do next.
What kind of compensation can I get after a car accident in Missouri?
Medical bills are a major worry after an auto accident.
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ER Visits: Immediate care after the accident.
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Surgeries: Necessary for severe injuries, both cost and recovery.
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Rehab: Physical therapy for long term recovery.
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Future Medical Care: Ongoing treatments or meds for chronic conditions.
Accurate documentation of all medical expenses is key to fair compensation.
Legal expertise can help with gathering these costs for your claim.
Lost Wages
A car accident can cause lost wages and financial instability.
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Immediate Earnings: Pay lost during initial recovery.
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Recovery Period: Diminished income during extended time off work.
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Work Capacity: Long term impact on future earning potential.
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Career Changes: Costs associated with changing careers due to injury.
Claims must account for all past and future lost wages.
A lawyer can negotiate for compensation that reflects your real financial loss.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering is a big part of any car accident claim, both physical injuries and emotional. This is non-economic damages from the accident.
Pain and suffering is calculated by considering factors such as the severity of the injuries, length of recovery and impact on daily life. These damages go beyond just physical impairment, it’s about changes in quality of life.
A well calculated pain and suffering award can include a wide range of consequences such as chronic physical pain, emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life’s activities—all part of your damage claim.
Attorneys use methods like the “multiplier” method where economic damages are multiplied by a factor to quantify these experiences. This careful calculation is matched with a deep understanding of the personal consequences so victims get compensation beyond just tangible losses. A experienced lawyer can make a big difference in getting an award that covers these intangible but real damages.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are beyond compensatory awards.
They are meant to punish particularly reckless or malicious behavior and to be a deterrent for future behavior. Unlike compensatory damages which are about making the victim whole, punitive damages are about the societal impact of the wrongdoing so they are a powerful tool in civil justice.
Calculating punitive damages is complex.
Missouri does not cap punitive damages but they must be supported by clear and convincing evidence. This could be gross negligence or intent to harm, so the case for punitive damages is a detailed and strategic part of the legal process.
So choosing car accident attorneys who know how to pursue punitive damages is key. They will make sure all the legal requirements are met and communicate the severity of the wrongdoer’s actions to the court and the jury.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
If the other driver is uninsured you can get compensation through your own insurance company policy. In Missouri uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory. Our lawyers can review your policy and advise you on the best way to get compensation.
What if I didn’t have car insurance but wasn’t at fault?
Under current Missouri law often referred to as the “no pay no play” statute if you didn’t have car insurance you can’t recover non-economic damages. The law RSMO §303.390 went into effect October 11, 2013. It basically says an innocent victim can’t recover non-economic damages from an at-fault driver if the victim didn’t have their own liability insurance. There are limited exceptions however. For example if the at-fault driver was intoxicated the statute doesn’t apply. There are other limited exceptions that may apply to your case.
How long will it take to settle my car accident case?
The time it takes to resolve a car accident claim depends on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries and whether a settlement is reached or the case goes to trial. Simple cases may settle in a few months, more complex cases may take a year or more. We will keep you informed every step of the way.
Will my case go to trial?
Not all cases go to trial. Many are settled with the insurance company. But if the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement we will take your case to court to get you the compensation you deserve.
What should I bring to my free consultation?
For your consultation bring:
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Accident reports and police documents
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Medical records and bills related to the accident
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Photos or videos of the crash area and your injuries
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Insurance information and correspondence
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Witness contact information
These will help us evaluate your case and advise you legally.
How can I get a bigger settlement?
A bigger settlement requires strategic action and expert guidance in the legal process.
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Gather Evidence: Collect detailed evidence including medical records, witness statements and accident scene photos to support your claims.
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Get Medical Attention: Get medical treatment as soon as possible not only for your well being but also to get documentation of your injuries.
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Get a Lawyer: An experienced attorney who knows car accident cases can negotiate and present your case for the maximum recovery.
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Don’t Settle Too Quick: Don’t settle the first offer as it’s often lower than what can be achieved with patience and negotiation.
Document everything about your injury and recovery process.
Let your legal team handle the negotiations and fight for your just compensation.
How long do I have to file a police report after an accident?
You must file a police report within a certain time frame after an accident to comply with the law and insurance requirements.
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Missouri Law: Requires reporting an accident involving injury, death or over $500 in property damage.
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Insurance Requirement: Check your insurance policy as insurers have their own deadlines.
It’s best to report the accident as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Early reporting will help document the accident clearly for insurance and legal purposes.
Do I need to file a lawsuit after a St. Louis car accident?
Not every car accident claim requires going to court. Explore other options first.
For some, negotiating with the insurance company will be enough to cover medical bills, repairs and other losses without going to court. But if the insurers are uncooperative, a lawsuit may be necessary.
A car crash lawyer from a reputable car accident law firm can help you evaluate your situation to determine what’s best for you. If your damages are more than the insurance offer or liability is disputed, a lawsuit will make sure you get fair compensation. If it’s gross negligence or punitive damages are involved, a lawsuit may be the way to go.
Should I talk to the at-fault party’s insurance after a car accident?
But you need to be cautious and clear. Insurance adjusters, while representing their company’s interests, don’t have your best interests at heart. They are trained to get statements that will reduce the value of your claim. So talking to them without legal guidance can hurt your claim.
Instead, have dedicated St. Louis car accident attorneys by your side. By having a professional handle communications, you’ll make sure your statements are always in your best interest and your rights are protected.
Remember, your lawyer knows how to read an offer and negotiate aggressively. They’ll spot any sneaky or dismissive tactics and counter them while keeping focus on getting you the most money for your injuries and losses.
St. Louis Neighborhoods We Serve
Central West End, Soulard, Lafayette Square, Downtown, The Hill, Benton Park, Old North, Tower Grove South, Shaw, St. Louis Hills, Skinker DeBaliviere, The Ville, Compton Heights, Forest Park Southeast, Carondelet, Lindenwood Park, Southwest Garden, Tower Grove East, Grand Center, Jeff-Vander-Lou, Hi-Pointe, Franz Park, St. Louis Place, Downtown West, Bevo Mill, Gravois Park, Benton Park West, Botanical Heights, DeBaliviere Place, Clayton-Tamm, Princeton Heights, McKinley Heights, The Gate District, Greater Ville, Holly Hills, Northampton, Wydown Skinker, Ellendale, Clifton Heights, The Southampton, Marine Villa, Walnut Park East, Walnut Park West, Wells-Goodfellow, Kings Oak, Carr Square, North Riverfront, LaSalle Park, Fox Park
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Car Accident Resources
St. Louis, MO Auto Repair Shops
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St. Louis Auto & Truck Repair, Inc. – 2701 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103
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Meineke Car Care Center – 728 S 4th St, St. Louis, MO 63102
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Custom Complete Automotive – 5406 Chippewa St, St. Louis, MO 63109
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Alleyway Auto Repair – 2016 S 9th St Rear, St. Louis, MO 63104
*We don’t endorse or get paid to list these companies on our site.
Car Accidents Infographic
