St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers
The road can be an unpredictable place, where even the most cautious drivers can fall victim to the negligence of others. In a split second, a careless driver can shatter lives, leaving behind a trail of devastating injuries, mounting medical bills, complex insurance claims, and lost income due to missed work.
If you or someone dear to you has suffered the devastating consequences of a car accident caused by another's recklessness, you don't have to face this challenging journey alone. The experienced St. Louis car crash attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel & Kruse can help you seek justice.
Call our office at NGK Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation with a St. Louis car accident lawyer today.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover from My Car Accident Claim?
Plaintiffs in Missouri can recover damages for both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages cover your tangible financial losses, such as:
- Medical bills: This includes hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medication, and ongoing care.
- Rehabilitation costs: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation expenses.
- Property damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle or other property damaged in the accident.
- Lost wages: Compensation for the time you missed work due to your injuries.
- Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning the same income.
- Home or vehicle modifications: If your injuries necessitate changes to your home or vehicle.
Non-economic damages address the intangible, emotional impacts of the accident, including:
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and injuries.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, and other psychological effects.
- Loss of consortium: Loss of companionship and intimacy with your spouse or partner.
- Disfigurement or scarring: Compensation for permanent physical changes.
Missouri follows an "at-fault" system, meaning the person responsible for the accident is liable for the damages. However, the amount of compensation you receive depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of the other party's negligence, and your insurance coverage.
How Do I Know Who Was at Fault In My Car Accident Case?
When determining fault in car accident cases, insurance companies first conduct an investigation. This process begins with the collection of evidence, including police reports, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, and any available surveillance footage. These pieces of evidence provide crucial insights into how and why the accident occurred.
Next, insurance adjusters assess the evidence in the context of Missouri's traffic laws. They look for any violations or negligence, such as speeding, failure to yield, or distracted driving. The adjusters also consider the statements provided by the drivers involved in the accident. This assessment helps them understand each party's actions leading up to the crash and their potential contribution to the accident.
Every case is different, but we put together some guides discussing who is typically found at fault in the following types of cases:
- Intersection crashes
- Left-turn crashes
- Merging crashes
- Parking lot crashes
- Rear-end crashes
- Right-turn crashes
- T-bone crashes
Can I Still Obtain Compensation if the Other Driver Wasn't Insured?
If you've been involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver, you might be worried about your ability to receive compensation for your injuries and damages.
Even when the other driver is uninsured, you still have options for obtaining compensation, like:
- Uninsured motorist coverage: All drivers in Missouri are required to carry uninsured motorist coverage, with minimums of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This means that even if the other driver didn't have insurance, you can recover damages from your insurance company if you do.
- Collision coverage: Your collision coverage may help pay for vehicle repairs or replacement, regardless of who is at fault in the accident.
- Personal injury protection (PIP): In some cases, your personal injury protection can help cover medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault.
- Legal action against the uninsured driver: In certain situations, it may be possible to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver to recover compensation. However, this option can be challenging and depends on the individual's financial resources.
Navigating an accident claim involving an uninsured driver can be complex and overwhelming. Our skilled personal injury attorneys at NGK Law Firm have the experience and knowledge to advocate for your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Can I Still Obtain Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault for the Car Accident?
The answer is yes. Missouri is a comparative fault state, which means that when determining who was at fault in a case, it can be assigned among multiple parties out of a scale of 100%. This percentage is then used to determine how compensation is allocated.
For example, let's say Driver A and Driver B get into a wreck. Driver A requests $100,000 in damages. In the trial, the jury finds that Driver B was 75% at fault for the wreck, while Driver A was 25% responsible.
This means that Driver A's request for damages will be reduced to 75% of their initial request to $75,000, while Driver B can now sue for damages as well. Driver B may awarded up to 25% of their approved damages.
How Do You Obtain Compensation if You Were Injured in a Car Accident on the Job?
If you were injured on the road while working, you might be able to get workers' compensation through your employer.
This is a different process than filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit, and it can sometimes be lengthy, so it's best to get started sooner rather than later.
Employers must provide injured employees with medical care and monetary compensation for an injury they sustained while at work. However, we've found that this system sometimes doesn't work as smoothly as it should.
If you have been injured in an automotive accident while at work and are thinking about filing a workers' compensation claim, or if you have already filed your claim and are dealing with adjusters who are disputing or downplaying your claim, don't hesitate to give the attorneys at NGK Law Firm a call.
We have extensive experience working within the Missouri workers' compensation system and can help you obtain your compensation quickly.
How NGK Law Firm Can Help if a Negligent Driver Was Responsible for a Loved One's Death
At NGK Law Firm, we know that nothing can make up for the shock and grief of losing a loved one in an automotive accident.
Car crash fatalities are all too common, and unfortunately, they have become even more common in recent years. The NHTSA has tracked a spike in traffic fatalities since 2020, correlating with changing behaviors and commuting during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you lost a loved one to an automotive accident, you can recover damages against the negligent party by filing a wrongful death suit.
In Missouri, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed anytime within three years of the decedent's death. There is no universal cap on the damages that a plaintiff can recover in a Missouri wrongful death suit. In practice, these amounts will vary based on the facts of the car accident case.
When determining damages, Missouri courts will consider evidence such as:
- Medical bills incurred due to the car accident
- Funeral expenses
- The value of wages the decedent would have earned if they had lived
- Pain and suffering
If you have lost a loved one to an auto accident, the experienced St. Louis auto accident attorneys at NGK Law Firm can advise you on the next steps you should take.
The Most Common Causes of St. Louis Car Accidents
Car wrecks can happen seemingly anywhere, for any reason.
Car accidents in St. Louis are similar to the rest of the country in that many involve:
- Hit-and-run
- Intersection crashes
- Drunk driving accidents (DUI)
- Speeding
- Reckless lane changes
- Rollovers
- Not leaving enough stopping distance (tailgating)
- Poor weather
It doesn't matter what might have contributed to your car crash. If you were injured and another driver was at fault, you are entitled to financial compensation.
If My Injuries Seem Minor at First, Should I Wait to Talk to a St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer?
Motor vehicle accidents are unexpected and disorienting, leaving you with physical and emotional pain. If you've recently been in a car accident and are experiencing seemingly minor injuries, you might be wondering whether it's worth contacting a lawyer.
It's crucial not to delay seeking legal advice.
Here's why:
- Hidden Injuries – Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not manifest immediately. Symptoms can worsen over time, causing more damage than initially suspected.
- Accurate Documentation – Early documentation of your injuries and medical treatment is critical for building a strong case. Waiting too long could make it difficult to prove the accident caused your injuries.
- Statute of Limitations – Personal injury claims have a statute of limitations, meaning you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. Delaying legal action could result in losing your right to compensation.
- Protecting Your Rights – An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and protect your interests when dealing with insurance companies.
If you've been in a car accident and are unsure about your next steps, don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We'll evaluate your situation and guide you through the legal process with professionalism and compassion.
What Can I Do if I Was Too Injured to Stay Behind and Collect the Other Driver's Information?
If you were involved in a serious accident and needed an emergency response to deal with your car accident injuries, you likely didn't have an opportunity to swap insurance information with the other driver. That's not a problem.
The law enforcement officers who responded to the scene will have created a report with all of the drivers' details, evidence collected, and statements from witnesses. Here are a few steps to help you gather the evidence you need.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health and well-being should always be your top priority. If you were too injured to stay at the scene, get medical attention as soon as possible. This will not only help you get the care you need but also create a medical record that documents your injuries and links them to the accident.
Request a Police Report
If the police were called to the scene, they likely filed a report detailing the accident, including the other driver's information. Request a copy of this report as soon as you are able. It will provide valuable information about the accident, the other driver, and any witnesses present at the scene.
Contact Witnesses
If you are aware of any witnesses who were present at the scene, reach out to them as soon as possible. Witnesses can provide valuable information about the accident, such as details about the other driver and their vehicle. Their statements can help support your claim and may be essential in cases where the other driver's information was not collected at the scene.
Consider Additional Resources
Depending on the circumstances, there may be additional resources available to help you identify the other driver. Surveillance cameras from nearby businesses or residences, traffic cameras, or even witnesses' social media posts may provide valuable information about the other driver and their vehicle.
Consult with a St. Louis Car Accident Attorney
Navigating a car accident claim without the other driver's information can be challenging. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you investigate the accident, identify the other driver, and gather crucial evidence to support your case. Additionally, they can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your rights.
Examples Of Car Accident Settlement Amounts
To provide a rough idea, here are some theoretical examples of car accident compensation based on different scenarios. Note that these are hypothetical and may not represent the exact settlement you might receive in similar situations.
Example One: Minor Injuries & Low Property Damage
Scenario: A driver is involved in a low-speed collision, resulting in minor whiplash and $1,000 worth of damage to their vehicle. They missed one week of work.
Potential Settlement: Medical costs could be around $2,500 (initial treatment plus physical therapy), plus $1,000 for the car repair, and $1,000 for lost wages. This totals $4,500 in economic damages.
Example Two: Moderate Injuries & Significant Property Damage
Scenario: A driver is hit by a speeding driver, resulting in a broken leg, several weeks off work, and their car was totaled (value $15,000).
Potential Settlement: Medical costs could be around $20,000 (emergency care, surgery, physical therapy), $15,000 for the car, and $10,000 in lost wages. This totals $45,000 in economic damages. Non-economic damages might be double that due to the severity of the injury, resulting in a potential settlement of around $135,000.
Example Three: Severe Injuries, Long-Term Disability
Scenario: A driver suffered a severe spinal injury in a car accident, causing permanent disability. They can no longer work in their previous occupation, and their car was totaled.
Potential Settlement: Medical expenses could easily exceed $100,000, plus $20,000 for their car and $1,000,000 for lost future earnings (assuming a relatively high-paying job and many remaining work years). This totals $1,120,000 in economic damages. Non-economic damages could be at least as much due to the life-altering nature of the injury, resulting in a potential settlement exceeding $2.2 million.
Call NGK Law Firm at (314) 350-1900 or contact us online today to arrange a free consultation with our team of St. Louis car accident lawyers.
Have Questions?
WE HAVE ANSWERS
-
How do I calculate damages in a car accident case?
Calculating economic damages tends to be straightforward as they are based on actual financial losses. You add up medical bills, property damage receipts, proof of lost wages, and any other out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.
Non-economic damages are more subjective and can vary greatly. These are often calculated using a "multiplier" method, which involves multiplying the economic damages by a number (the multiplier) that represents the severity of the injuries. The multiplier can range typically from 1.5 to 5, or even higher for extremely severe or life-altering injuries.
Factors that can influence compensation include:
- Severity of injuries: The more severe the injuries, the higher the medical costs and potential for long-term impacts, which can lead to a higher overall compensation.
- The extent of property damage: Greater property damage can result in higher repair or replacement costs, increasing the total compensation.
- Impact on quality of life: If the accident has significantly affected your quality of life (e.g., inability to perform previous activities, requiring ongoing medical care), this can increase the compensation.
- Fault: As we mentioned above, Missouri's pure comparative fault system reduces your compensation by your percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if you're found to be 30% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you can only recover $70,000.
-
Does Missouri cap the amount of damages you can seek in personal injury claims?
Missouri does not cap the amount of economic damages or non-economic damages that a car accident victim can recover. However, punitive damages are capped at $500,000 or five times the net amount of the judgment, whichever is greater.
-
How much compensation can car accident victims recover?
As we mentioned above, every case is different, and as a result, car accident settlements can vary significantly based on the specific circumstances of the accident.
-
How Does Missouri Handle Car Accident Claims?
Before we get into the subject of compensation amounts, it's first important to understand how Missouri law handles motor vehicle accidents.
Missouri uses an "at-fault" system to handle car accident claims. This means that the driver whose actions were responsible for causing the accident will be responsible for compensating any other parties involved for their damages. These damages could include medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering (we'll explain more below). The at-fault driver's insurance company typically covers these expenses up to the policy's limit.
Determining fault in a car accident involves investigating the accident circumstances, examining evidence, and applying traffic laws to understand who caused the accident. Police reports, witness statements, photos from the scene, and professional reconstructions can all play a part in determining fault.
Comparative Negligence When Both Parties Are At Fault
Missouri uses a "pure comparative negligence" rule in car accident cases. This means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were 20% at fault for the accident and suffered $10,000 in damages, you would only be eligible to recover 80% of that amount, or $8,000.
-
What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim?
In Missouri, a car accident victim has five years to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for a car accident injury. In the event of a lethal crash, surviving family members have three years to file a wrongful death suit.
It's important to note that the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit is different from filing a car insurance claim. While the statute of limitations on a lawsuit stemming from a car accident is years, any insurance company will require you to make an insurance claim or give notice that a claim will soon be filed "within a reasonable amount of time," which typically means a few days to a few weeks.
-
What should I avoid doing after a car accident?
Avoid admitting fault, providing speculative statements, or signing any documents from insurance companies without consulting your attorney. Additionally, refrain from discussing your case on social media or with anyone other than your St. Louis car accident lawyers.
-
How long does a car accident claim take to resolve?
The duration of a car accident claim can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the extent of your injuries, and whether a settlement is reached or the case goes to trial. Your attorney can provide an estimated timeline based on their experience with similar cases.
-
Do I need a lawyer for my car accident claim?
While it’s not legally required, hiring a car accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries and damages. An experienced St. Louis car accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your rights.
-
Who is responsible for my medical bills after a car accident?Initially, you may have to cover your medical bills through your health insurance or out-of-pocket. However, if the other driver is at fault, you can seek compensation for your medical expenses through their insurance or by working with St. Louis car accident lawyers to file a personal injury claim.
-
What if there is not much property damage to my car, do I still have a claim?Yes, your claim may be eligible. It’s never a good idea to shrug off an auto accident. Even if there is not much superficial damage, the crash might have damaged internal components on your car, which can be costly and time-consuming to repair.
How Do Car Accident Claims Work in Missouri?
The path of your claim can vary depending on the specifics of the case, but generally speaking, car accident claims in Missouri usually follow the six steps below.
-
Report the Accident
Missouri law requires that any car accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500 be reported to the local police department or the Missouri State Highway Patrol. If you are involved in such an accident, it's essential to report it as soon as possible. This documentation will serve as a critical piece of evidence when filing your claim.
-
Gather Evidence
Collecting evidence at the scene of the accident is vital for building a strong case. This may include taking photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Additionally, contact information from witnesses should be gathered, and insurance information should be exchanged with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
-
Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries appear to be minor, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A medical professional can evaluate and document your injuries, providing essential evidence for your car accident injury claim. Furthermore, some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying medical care can exacerbate these conditions.
-
Notify Your Insurance Company
Always notify your insurance company about car accidents as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require prompt reporting, and failure to do so can jeopardize your claim. When providing information to your insurer, stick to the facts and avoid making speculative statements or admitting fault.
-
File a Claim
In Missouri, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance policy, or you can file a claim with your insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver is uninsured. Once your claim is filed, an insurance adjuster will be assigned to your case. They will investigate the accident, assess the damages, and determine the settlement amount.
It is essential to remember that insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and may try to minimize the value of your claim. Having a personal injury attorney by your side can protect you from these kinds of industry tricks and wiles.
-
Negotiate Settlement or Go to Court
Most car accident claims in Missouri are resolved through settlement negotiations. Your attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, if negotiations fail to yield a satisfactory outcome, your attorney may recommend taking your car accident case to court.
What To Do If The Insurance Company Rejects Or Short-Changes Your Claim
Facing a rejection or underpayment from an insurance company after a car accident can be frustrating and daunting. However, there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself.
When an insurance company denies a claim or offers less than you believe you deserve, they are obligated to provide an explanation. This information will guide your next steps. Reasons for denial might include late filing, lack of coverage, or disputing liability.
Review Your Insurance Policy
Carefully review your insurance policy. Be sure that you fully understand its terms and conditions, particularly any exclusions or clauses that the insurer might use to justify their decision. If the language is complex or hard to understand, consider seeking professional advice.
Write a Letter of Appeal
Get Help Today From Our St. Louis Car Accident Attorneys
NGK Law Firm is an award-winning personal injury law firm that represents Missouri car accident claims. Our firm is known for its dedication to securing fair compensation for its clients, combining thorough legal knowledge with a commitment to personalized client service.
When you work with NGK Law Firm, you get a team with two of the 2023 list of Best Lawyers as well as a Top 50 and Top 100 lawyer in the area of plaintiff's personal injury by Super Lawyers Magazine.
With a 98% client success rate and more than $1 billion recovered for our clients, our team wins.
We handle all kinds of St. Louis car crash cases, including:
When we begin working with you, we'll do all of the heavy lifting for you on your case so you can focus on recovery and getting your life back on track.
Our team can:
- Consult with you as to the specifics of your case in order to build a clear image of the accident.
- Review all of the physical evidence of the case, from police reports to medical records, highway cams, dash cam footage, and investigative documents.
- Speak with witnesses and first responders.
- Handle all conversations and negotiations with insurance companies.
- Keep an open and honest line of communication with you throughout the process.
Call (314) 350-1900 or contact us online today for your free case evaluation.
What Our Clients Are Saying
NGK Has A National Reputation for Helping the Injured Obtain the Compensation They Deserve
-
"I highly recommend him as a lawyer."David Grebel has handled several cases for me, always professionally and with a positive outcome. I always felt in the loop. I felt like a person not a number.- Susie W.
-
"Kindness, thoughtfulness and patience"I really appreciated Dave's kindness and thoughtfulness and especially his patience with me throughout my lawsuit.- Gladys R.
-
"I only recommend NGK"Very responsive and they help you in any way they can. Michael Kruse has handled many cases for me and he is very professional and will fight for you every time.- Matthew G.
-
"Helped me through the process"Initially, I was reluctant to bring a lawsuit, but Dave answered all my questions and helped me through the process. I really appreciate all he did to get me what I deserved.- Lou P.
-
"I would highly recommend them."Absolute professionals of the highest caliber. There's no one else I would recommend to friends or family!- Robert K.
-
"The best at what they do!!!"Dave Grebel is the go-to guy. He has handled cases for my friends and family, always with a positive outcome!- Bryan H.
-
"2 for 2 batting 1000"Second time using NGK. Took care of me both times! Will use and recommend again! 5 stars!!- Tony B.
-
"They were very wonderful."Dawn Schneithorst definitely worked hard for me and my siblings. She deserves a raise. They have me for a lifetime if we ever need them again.- Paige B.
How Can a St. Louis Car Accident Attorney Help After an Accident?
The aftermath of a car accident can be a whirlwind of confusion and uncertainty. Insurance companies, aware of this vulnerability, may attempt to exploit the situation as you focus on recovery and returning to normalcy. Their adjusters might downplay your injuries, question the necessity of your medical treatment, dispute your time off work, and even try to shift blame onto you.
Before you know it, the insurance company will try to settle your claim without even granting you time to evaluate all of your options. This intentional confusion and rapid processing of your claim are all done in an attempt to pay you less money than you deserve.
Having a St. Louis car accident lawyer from NGK Law Firm on your side helps level the playing field. When you work with one of our attorneys, you'll have someone looking out for your best interests, fighting for the medical attention and financial compensation that you need.