Columbia Car Accident Lawyer
Every day across America, car accidents happen. They range from fender benders to serious, multi-car pileups. But no matter how minor or major the crash, one thing is always true: someone is going to be held responsible. In 2020, the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) reported 131,390 car accidents and over 47,000 injuries as a result of those crashes . Of those, 959 were fatal. Disturbingly, the Missouri Department of Transportation reported over 1,000 traffic fatalities in 2021; a 3% increase from the previous year and the first time in 15 years that more than 1,000 people were killed on state roads.
If you’ve been in a vehicle collision and suffered an injury, you may be wondering what your rights are and whether you can get compensated for your injuries. Luckily, a diligent personal injury attorney could answer your questions. Contact our offices today to speak with a Columbia car accident lawyer.
Typical Factors That Contribute Car Crashes
There are many factors that can contribute to a car wreck. Here are some of the most common:
- Distracted driving, including texting, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, playing with the radio, etc.
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Fatigued driving
- Poor weather
If you are involved in a collision, the first step is to seek medical attention. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not be immediately apparent but can still cause long-term pain and suffering.
Once you have been seen by a doctor, the next step is to contact a legal representative. A skilled car accident attorney in Columbia will evaluate your crash case and help you determine if you have a claim against the other driver, their insurance company, or both.
What are Your Rights if You Have Been Injured in a Car Wreck?
If you have been in a car crash and suffered an injury, you have the right to seek compensation. This includes compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. The person who was at fault for causing the collision is also responsible for any resulting harm, and you may also be able to recover punitive damages when the other motorist was particularly careless or reckless.
It’s also important to keep in mind that you have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the “statute of limitations.” If you don’t file your lawsuit within this time frame, you may be barred from recovering any compensation.
While car crashes can happen anywhere at any time, most personal injury claims are the result of negligence on the part of one or more drivers. When a motorist fails to follow the rules of the road or drives in a way that puts other people in danger, they can be held liable if an accident occurs. When you have been injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be able to file a civil lawsuit to recover damages with the help of a seasoned Columbia car accident lawyer.
How a Lawyer Can Help File a Civil Claim
If you were hurt in a car accident, you may be wondering if you need a lawyer. The answer is maybe. If the wreck was minor and there is no dispute about who was at fault, you may not need a lawyer. However, if the collision was more serious or there is disagreement about who caused it and/or if you have suffered catastrophic injuries, it is probably in your best interest to retain a lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve.
An experienced car crash lawyer will assist with many aspects of your claim including, investigating the accident, and gathering evidence, identifying and interviewing witnesses, negotiating with the insurance company, filing a lawsuit, and taking your case to trial if necessary. No matter how serious your injuries are or how the vehicle collision happened, a car accident lawyer in Columbia can help you understand your rights.
Contact Us to Discuss How a Car Crash Attorney in Columbia Can Help When You Are in a Car Accident
If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle crash, you may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, and even scared. But you don’t have to go through this alone. A Columbia car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Chris Miller is here to help.
We will review your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your options. We’ll work to get you the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.