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.
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 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.