Injured While A Passenger In A Car in St. Louis

If you were injured as a passenger in a car accident in St. Louis, here are some steps you can take to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries:

1. Seek Medical Attention:

  • Top Priority: Your health is the most important concern. See a doctor immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Adrenaline can mask pain, and a prompt medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries and ensures you receive proper treatment.

2. Gather Information:

  • Accident Details: If possible, document details of the accident, such as the date, location, weather conditions, and names and contact information of the driver, other passengers, and any witnesses.
  • Police Report: If a police report was filed, obtain a copy for your records.
  • Insurance Information: Get the insurance information of the driver at fault and your own insurance information, even if you weren't driving.

3. Understand Missouri Law:

  • Pure Comparative Fault: Missouri is a pure comparative negligence state. This means any fault you bear in the accident (e.g., not wearing a seatbelt) will reduce your compensation proportionally.

4. Consider Legal Representation:

  • Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced St. Louis personal injury lawyer can advise you on your legal rights, navigate the claims process, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries. See my previous response on why St. Louis personal injury attorneys might be a good choice [previous response on why are st. louis personal injury attorneys so good].

Here are some resources to help you:

  • Missouri Bar Association: https://mobar.org/ can help you find a qualified personal injury lawyer.
  • State Bar of Missouri Lawyer Referral Service: 1-800-685-1528 can connect you with a lawyer in your area.

What a Lawyer Can Do For You:

  • Investigate the Accident: A lawyer will investigate the cause of the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
  • Deal with Insurance Companies: Lawyers experienced in personal injury cases know how to negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for:
    • Medical bills
    • Lost wages
    • Pain and suffering
    • Property damage (e.g., damaged personal belongings in the car)
  • Represent You in Court (if necessary): If a fair settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company, a lawyer can represent you in court.

Remember, this is just general information, and consulting with a personal injury lawyer familiar with Missouri laws is crucial to understand your specific situation and determine the best course of action.

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