Columbia Car Accident Lawyer
Being involved in an auto accident could be a frightening experience for many. Not only could a sudden collision inflict an extensive amount of property damage, an unsuspecting driver could also suffer severe injuries that may be difficult to heal from.
If you have been injured due to the negligent actions of a careless driver, it may be wise to consult with an experienced injury attorney about your case. A Columbia car accident lawyer could talk to you about your eligibility for compensation and what steps you should take next. Get started on your case today by scheduling a free initial consultation.
Common Auto Wreck Injuries in Columbia
Due to the abrupt impact drivers receive when they are the victim of a car crash, they may suffer a variety of damages. In addition to property damage, victims may suffer a wide range of injuries including:
- Neck and whiplash injuries
- Brain trauma and concussions
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones
- Lacerations and gashes
These injuries are frightening, as a compassionate Columbia car wreck lawyer understands. Fortunately, they could fight for a client to recover compensation for the full extent of these wounds.
What Compensation is Available for Physical Injuries?
The value of a car accident case is dependent on the plaintiff’s damages. Different types of physical pain and emotional suffering, as well as financial losses, may be available to a Columbia car accident plaintiff.
Missouri law allows compensation for injuries that render a person disfigured or disabled. Disabled means that an injury has caused decreased physical or mental functioning or impairment. Additionally, a plaintiff can seek damages for aggravation of a pre-existing disability.
Physical pain and mental anguish, humiliation, and other trauma or suffering may also be compensable. The law contemplates both past damages, those that have already happened, and future damages. Future damages are available when they are reasonably likely to occur in the weeks, months, or years ahead.
What Damages Am I Entitled to in my Columbia Car Accident Case?
When you are involved in a car accident in Columbia, Mo., you may be entitled to various damages to compensate for your injuries and medical expenses. When considering which damages you might be entitled to, there are a couple of different types of damages that you might be entitled to: economic and non-economic damages. Let’s review the two different types of damages in more detail so you have a better understanding of what to expect.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are much easier to put an exact dollar figure on, as they include bills, property damage, etc. Some of the economic damages often awarded in Columbia, Mo. include:
- Medical bills
- Ongoing medical care
- Property Damages
- Lost Wages
- Diminished earning capacity
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Disability
In the case of a car accident, punitive damages might also be handed down. These are given to the at-fault party and are often due to negligence.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Columbia, Mo., contact our experienced attorneys today to get the compensation you deserve.
Why Hire a Columbia, Missouri Car Accident Lawyer?
Car accident cases are very complex, especially when you consider the insurance company’s involvement in the matter. Therefore, it is best to hire an experienced Columbia, Mo. car accident lawyer to help you through the legalities of your case. As your attorneys, we will help you file suit, gather evidence, consult eyewitness testimony, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for you in court if necessary.
It is critical that you do not go up against the insurance companies alone, as adjusters are trained to offer you the lowest settlement amount possible, thus saving the insurance company money. When you have the Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers on your side, you can focus on recovery while we focus on getting you the compensation you deserve from the ordeal.
Proving Liability in a Car Accident Claim
To win your case, our attorneys must prove liability. This proves that the other party is at fault and was held liable for your accident. In many cases, the driver at fault is the sole individual held liable for the accident; however, in some cases, multiple parties might be held liable, such as the driver of the car and the manufacturer, if a defect caused the accident.
To prove that the other party is liable, they would have had to breach their “duty of care.” For negligence to exist, the following must be true:
- Duty of Care Was Breached
- The breach resulted in an accident
- Damages are present as a result
What if you were partially at fault for the accident? Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, it is still possible for you to recover damages. Missouri is classified as a “pure comparative fault” state; therefore, you would receive a percent of the damages, which decreases the more at-fault you are in the accident.
Payments for Financial Losses
Plaintiffs can seek recovery for income or wages they were unable to earn as a result of the vehicle accident. If a plaintiff was gainfully employed but lost the ability to work as a result of the car wreck, they might also be able to collect the forward-looking lost income.
Medical expenses can pile up quickly for a car accident victim. Emergency services such as transport and emergency room tests or procedures add up quickly. Plaintiffs may require long-term treatment or rehabilitative services to recover.
A plaintiff can also seek reimbursement for medical bills. This includes both existing bills and future bills that the plaintiff will likely incur as a result of their injuries. Finally, a plaintiff may be able to recover for damage done to their automobile caused by the crash. If a car accident claimant needs help proving that they deserve these damages, a dedicated Columbia attorney can collect evidence and negotiate with a stubborn insurance company.
What is the Timeframe for Filing a Car Crash Lawsuit?
Victims have five years under the statute of limitations to file a lawsuit. The time generally starts to run from the date of the car crash. Even though this is a relatively long time, it is wise to act swiftly. Waiting too long could cause your case to be potentially dismissed if you fail to act within the statute of limitations. By reaching out to a Columbia car wreck lawyer, victims would be well within the deadline to file a claim and may have more time to put together a convincing claim for compensation.
Get in Touch with a Columbia, Mo. Car Accident Attorney Today
In the moments following an accident, you may feel shocked and confused about what just transpired. However, it is in these moments where you should begin figuring out how to hold the other driver liable for your accident if their careless actions led to your injuries.
With a Columbia car accident lawyer at your side, you may be better suited at obtaining the compensation you deserve. A trusted attorney could examine the details of your case, negotiate with other parties on your behalf, and advise you throughout the claims process regarding which strategy would favor you the most. To learn more, or to get started on a case, schedule a consultation today.
Columbia, Mo. Car Accident Lawyer FAQ
How do I choose the right car accident lawyer in Columbia, MO?
When selecting a car accident lawyer, consider their experience, reputation, and success in handling similar cases. Look for reviews, testimonials, and any awards or recognitions they may have received. A free initial consultation can also help you gauge their suitability for your case.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Columbia, MO?
After a car accident, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention if necessary. Contact law enforcement to report the incident, exchange information with the other party involved, and gather evidence such as photos and witness statements. It’s crucial to consult with a car accident lawyer promptly to protect your rights.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Columbia, MO?
Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive compensation. The standard contingency fee is a percentage of the settlement or court award. It’s essential to discuss fee structures during your initial consultation to avoid any surprises.
What damages can I claim in a car accident case in Columbia, MO?
Victims of car accidents in Columbia, MO may be eligible to claim various damages, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, punitive damages. An experienced car accident lawyer can help assess the specific damages applicable to your case.
Is there a time limit to file a car accident claim in Columbia, MO?
Yes, Missouri has a statute of limitations for filing car accident claims. Typically, you must file a personal injury lawsuit within five years of the accident date. However, it’s advisable to consult with a lawyer promptly, as some circumstances may alter this timeframe.
What if the other party involved in the car accident is uninsured or underinsured?
In cases where the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, your car accident lawyer can explore alternative avenues for compensation. This may involve your own insurance coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, to help cover your damages.
Can I handle a car accident case in Columbia, MO, without a lawyer?
While it’s possible to handle a car accident case without a lawyer, it’s not recommended. Insurance companies often have legal teams working to minimize payouts. A skilled car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your best interests.