Anyone who gets into a vehicle is at risk of being involved in an accident. No one anticipates having their day ruined by a car crash, but it happens even if you are driving as safely as possible. Whether it is a minor fender bender or a more serious crash, our Chesterfield, MO car accident lawyer can come to your aid immediately. We understand that at a time like this, you may be dealing with too much. Maybe you are nursing painful injuries, have had to miss work to take care of yourself, needed your car repaired or replaced, and are now dealing with insurance companies. With all of this on your plate, it’s no wonder that you may be searching for a lawyer to help handle things. You can rely on our team at the Dysart Law Firm to represent you and advocate relentlessly for your maximized compensation.
Accident Checklist
If you were in an accident, there are some steps you need to take. Firstly, call 911 if there are any potential injuries. Do keep in mind that because of the shock of being in a car accident, you may not know what the full extent of your injuries are just yet. It’s best to call the police so an ambulance and an officer can arrive at the scene. The paramedics can attend to anyone who has injuries and the officer can write a report for what happened. Exchange information with the other driver, including their name, form of contact, address, driver’s license number, license plate number, vehicle description, and insurance information. If you have a cell phone or camera, take photographs and video of the damage to both vehicles and the general accident scene. Try to notice if there are visual obstacles or debris in the road that could have been a factor in the accident. Once you have ensured that your health is okay, then it’s time to speak with our dedicated Chesterfield car accident attorney. You will need to notify your insurance company about the collision, and then may have to speak with an insurance adjuster. We can help guide you through these conversations to make sure that your best interests are protected.
Talking To An Insurance Adjuster
As our Missouri car accident attorney may forewarn, your conversation with an insurance adjuster can be impactful to the outcome of your claim. Insurance adjusters are people that may try to reduce your compensation amount or deny your claim entirely. It’s an unfortunate reality that insurance companies are not actually interested in benefiting claimants and supporting their recovery. In fact, insurance companies may use unfair strategies and go to great lengths to avoid paying fairly to you. But you can trust that we are aware of the tactics they may use, and won’t let them use these against you. If you have more questions about what to do after a car accident or how our team at The Dysart Law Firm can be of assistance, please contact us today.
What Happens When You Have A Car Accident
Experiencing a car accident can be a shocking and stressful event as a Chesterfield, MO car accident lawyer knows all too well. Knowing what to do immediately after the accident can help protect your rights and ensure your safety. First and foremost, check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services right away. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to seek medical attention as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, move your vehicle out of traffic if it’s safe to do so. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. This helps prevent further accidents and keeps the scene safe for everyone involved.
Gathering Information
After making sure everyone is safe, gather as much information as possible. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. This should include names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance policy details. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. They may provide valuable testimony later. In fact, they can help you win large settlements, such as the $900,000 settlement our firm won for a drunk driving accident.
It’s also important to document the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, any visible damage, and the surrounding area. This evidence can be crucial in supporting your claim. Additionally, make notes about the weather conditions, road conditions, and any other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
Contacting The Authorities
Depending on the severity of the accident, you may need to call the police. In many cases, having a police report can be very helpful when filing an insurance claim or if legal action becomes necessary. The police will document the accident and may issue citations if any traffic laws were violated.
Reporting To Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the necessary details and cooperate fully during their investigation. Be honest and accurate in your statements, as any discrepancies can affect your claim.
Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s important to seek medical attention. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. A thorough medical examination can identify any potential injuries and ensure you receive appropriate treatment. Keep all medical records and receipts as they will be important for your claim.
Legal Considerations
If you’ve been injured in the accident or if there is significant property damage, it may be beneficial to consult with a Chesterfield car accident lawyer. Legal issues can arise, especially if the other driver disputes fault or if insurance companies are unwilling to offer a fair settlement. At Dysart Law Firm, P.C., we have extensive experience handling car accident cases and can provide the guidance you need during this challenging time. In fact, we won a $500,000 settlement for a client in a truck accident case.
Dealing With Insurance Adjusters
Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters. Their primary goal is often to minimize the payout on your claim. It’s advisable to consult with your attorney before providing any recorded statements or accepting settlement offers. Your lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Remember, anything you say can and will be used against you, so it is best to have your attorney deal with them.
Repairing Your Vehicle
Once the insurance company has completed their assessment, you can proceed with getting your vehicle repaired. Choose a reputable repair shop and keep all receipts and documentation of the repairs. If the repair costs exceed the insurance payout, your lawyer can help address this issue with the insurance company.
Recovery And Moving Forward
Recovering from a car accident involves not only physical healing but also emotional recovery. It’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments. Take care of your mental health as well, seeking support from friends, family, or a professional counselor if needed.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident and need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to contact a Chesterfield car accident lawyer at Dysart Law Firm, P.C. Our team is here to support you through every step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you secure the compensation you need to recover fully. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.
7 Car Accident Injuries With Long-Term Consequences
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which have long-term consequences that significantly impact the victim’s quality of life, as a Chesterfield, MO car accident lawyer can attest. Understanding these potential injuries and their lasting effects can help victims seek the appropriate medical and legal support. Here, our lawyers at Dysart Law Firm, P.C. outline seven common car accident injuries that often result in long-term consequences.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries are among the most severe outcomes of car accidents. They occur when the head experiences a sudden impact or jolt, leading to damage to the brain. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Long-term consequences of TBIs include cognitive impairments, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and emotional instability. These effects can hinder a person’s ability to work, socialize, and perform daily activities, requiring ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the damage. These injuries often occur in high-impact collisions and can lead to long-term disability. Victims may experience loss of sensation, muscle function, and mobility. In severe cases, spinal cord injuries require lifelong medical care, assistive devices, and modifications to the home and workplace. The physical and emotional toll on victims and their families is profound, making it essential to seek comprehensive medical and legal support. Our lawyers have won as much as $500,000 in settlements for those injured in truck accidents.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common injury in rear-end collisions, caused by the sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck. While many people recover from whiplash within a few weeks, some experience chronic pain and stiffness that can last for months or even years. Long-term effects of whiplash may include persistent neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and reduced range of motion. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and work, requiring ongoing physical therapy and pain management.
Broken Bones
Fractures and broken bones are common in car accidents and can have long-lasting effects, especially if they involve major bones or joints. Complicated fractures may require surgeries, metal implants, and extensive rehabilitation. Even after the bones have healed, victims might experience chronic pain, arthritis, and limited mobility. This can affect their ability to perform physical tasks and enjoy an active lifestyle, impacting their overall quality of life.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs, are life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical attention. These injuries might not be immediately apparent, making them particularly dangerous. Long-term consequences can include chronic pain, organ dysfunction, and the need for ongoing medical treatment or surgery. Recovery from internal injuries is often slow and challenging, affecting the victim’s overall health and well-being. If you have suffered internal injuries, contact us. Our firm has won settlements as large as $900,000 for those involved in vehicle accidents that suffered severe injuries.
Psychological Trauma
Car accidents can leave victims with lasting psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The emotional impact of a car accident can be just as debilitating as physical injuries, affecting the victim’s mental health, relationships, and ability to function in daily life. Therapy and counseling are often necessary to help victims cope with these long-term psychological effects, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care and support. These types of injuries can be harder to get compensation for because they are more difficult to prove, but with the right legal help it is possible.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, are common in car accidents. While these injuries might seem minor initially, they can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility if not properly treated. Long-term effects of soft tissue injuries can include persistent pain, stiffness, and a reduced ability to engage in physical activities. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are crucial for managing these injuries and improving the victim’s quality of life.
Understanding the long-term consequences of car accident injuries underscores the importance of seeking immediate medical attention and legal assistance. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, it is crucial to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At Dysart Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to helping you through this challenging time. Contact a Chesterfield car accident lawyer from our team today for a consultation. We are here to provide the guidance and support you need to move forward with your life.
Chesterfield Car Accident Lawyer FAQs
As a Chesterfield car accident lawyer, we are here to help you understand the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Below, we address some of the most frequently asked questions to provide you with the information you need. Car accidents can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially when dealing with the aftermath and the legalities involved. At Dysart Law Firm, P.C., we understand that you may have many questions about how to proceed after an accident. We are dedicated to using the law and the courts to seek justice and compensation for people who have been impacted by the actions of negligent and reckless corporations and individuals.
What Damages Can Be Recovered In A Car Accident Lawsuit?
In a car accident lawsuit, several types of damages can be recovered. These typically include economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible losses such as medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and future medical costs. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, address intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly reckless or malicious. As your lawyers, we will work diligently to quantify these damages accurately and advocate for the full compensation you are entitled to.
How Long Does It Take To Settle A Car Accident Claim?
The time it takes to settle a car accident claim can vary widely depending on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, the clarity of liability, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. Some claims can be resolved in a few months, while others may take several years, especially if they proceed to trial. It is essential to have a thorough and patient approach to ensure that all aspects of the case are properly addressed. We strive to expedite the process as much as possible while ensuring that you receive a fair settlement.
What If The Insurance Company Offers Me A Settlement?
If the insurance company offers you a settlement, it’s crucial to review it carefully before accepting. Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payouts and may offer a settlement that does not fully cover your losses. It’s advisable to consult with a Chesterfield car accident lawyer before accepting any offers. We can evaluate the settlement offer in the context of your total damages and provide guidance on whether it is fair and adequate. If the offer is insufficient, we can negotiate on your behalf to seek a better outcome.
How Do I Prove Negligence In A Car Accident Case?
Proving negligence in a car accident case involves demonstrating that the other party failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in the accident and your injuries. This requires establishing four key elements: duty, breach of duty, causation, and damages. First, we must show that the other party owed you a duty of care. Next, we need to prove that they breached this duty by acting carelessly or recklessly. Then, we must demonstrate that this breach directly caused the accident. Finally, we must provide evidence of the damages you suffered as a result. This process involves gathering and presenting various forms of evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony.
What Steps Are Involved In The Legal Process For A Car Accident Claim?
The legal process for a car accident claim typically begins with an initial consultation with an accident lawyer, where we discuss the details of your case and assess its merits. Once we take on your case, we will conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and determine liability. We will then file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company and enter into negotiations. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we may file a lawsuit and proceed to litigation. Throughout this process, we will represent your interests, provide updates, and guide you through each step until your case is resolved.
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Dysart Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to helping you understand your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. With millions of dollars recovered for injured clients, our firm is committed to helping those who have been injured or have died as the result of the negligence of others. If you have been involved in a car accident, contact us today to speak with a Chesterfield car accident lawyer. Let us help you through this challenging time and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case.