When To Obtain St. Louis Car Accident Lawyer After A Collision

You don't necessarily need a lawyer after every car accident in St. Louis, but here are some situations where consulting a personal injury attorney is highly recommended:

Severity of Injuries:

Significant Medical Needs: If you sustained serious injuries requiring extensive treatment, rehabilitation, or permanent disability, a lawyer can ensure your medical costs are covered and fight for future care needs.
Long-Term Impacts: Even seemingly minor injuries can have long-term consequences. A lawyer can help document these impacts and ensure you're compensated appropriately.

Property Damage:

Totaled Vehicle: If your car is declared totaled by the insurance company, a lawyer can negotiate for a fair settlement that reflects the car's pre-accident value.

Insurance Issues:

Denied Claim: If the insurance company denies your claim entirely, a lawyer can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Lowball Offers: Insurance companies often make initial offers that are much lower than what you're entitled to. A lawyer can negotiate aggressively to get you a fair settlement.
Complex Coverage Disputes: If there are disagreements about policy coverages or exclusions, a lawyer can interpret your policy and advocate for your rights.

Accident Complexity:

Multiple Parties Involved: Accidents with more than two vehicles or involving pedestrians, cyclists, or damaged property can be intricate. A lawyer can help sort out fault and ensure everyone accountable contributes to your compensation.
Unclear Fault: Missing evidence, conflicting witness accounts, or bad weather conditions can make assigning blame difficult. A lawyer can investigate and build a strong case to establish fault.
Comparative Fault Laws: Missouri follows a "comparative fault" system, where fault is shared between parties. A lawyer can negotiate to minimize your attributed fault percentage and maximize your compensation.

Additional Considerations:

Product Liability: If a car malfunction caused the accident, a product liability claim against the manufacturer might be involved. A lawyer can handle this complexity.
Wrongful Death: If the accident results in a fatality, surviving family members have the right to pursue compensation for their loss. A wrongful death case requires an experienced lawyer.

Making the Decision:

Free Consultations: Most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations. This allows you to discuss your case, get a sense of their experience, and understand potential fees (often contingency-based, where they get a percentage of the settlement if successful).
Peace of Mind: Even if your case seems straightforward, a lawyer can handle the legalities, negotiations, and communication with the insurance company, allowing you to focus on recovery.

If you're unsure whether you need a lawyer, it's always best to err on the side of caution and schedule a consultation. A lawyer can advise you on your legal rights and the best course of action for your specific situation.