kansas city mo car accident injury lawyerA serious car accident can change your life in an instant, leaving you unable to work and facing hefty medical bills. Call Peterson and Associates at 816-888-8888 If you've recently been hurt in an accident caused by another driver's negligence. Contact our Kansas City car accident injury lawyers at Peterson & Associates, P.C., who are here to help.

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Types of Injury Cases Our Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer Handles

After being injured in a car accident, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. That's where a car accident injury lawyer comes in. Our Kansas City injury lawyers can help guide you through the legal process and represent your best interests.

Whiplash Injury

One of the most common car accident injuries is whiplash. Whiplash is a medical term that describes neck and back pain caused by sudden, rapid acceleration or deceleration of the torso. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and blurred vision.

Back and Neck Injuries

The back and neck are common areas for injury in car accidents. When a person is thrown forward or backward during an accident, they can strike their head on the windshield or dashboard, which can cause severe damage to the spinal cord and ligaments.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning can also occur following a car accident, especially if exhaust fumes leak from the engine or the tailpipe. Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream and replaces oxygen in red blood cells. Symptoms include confusion, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Carbon monoxide poisoning is fatal if left untreated; therefore, drivers must be cautious of exhaust leaks following an accident to avoid this condition.

Cuts and Bruises

You'll likely have cuts and bruises after a car accident. If you can get immediate medical help, you can reduce the risk of infection. Also, avoid touching the area around the wound. This might lead to additional injury if your hand slips and comes into contact with the blood.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) after a car accident can lead to various long-term physical and psychological symptoms. Those who have sustained a TBI risk experiencing cognitive, behavioral, and emotional problems, including memory loss, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. People with a history of TBIs must take steps to alleviate the symptoms and prevent further harm. These include regular medical checkups, lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and getting enough sleep, and talking about their experiences with loved ones.

Types of Car Accidents Our Kansas City Auto Injury Lawyers Handle

There are several different types of car accidents, some of which are more serious than others. More common accidents that are often injury-related include:

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions occur when a vehicle is rear-ended by another vehicle. Rear-end collisions can be very dangerous, as the vehicle that is struck may suddenly stop or swerve out of the way, increasing the risk of a second collision or even causing the car to flip over. Rear-end collisions can also cause severe damage to both vehicles involved and their passengers.

T-Bone Collisions

T-bone accidents are some of the more serious types of car accidents. It's a type of crash where one car hits another at an angle, causing the front of the vehicles to impact each other. Both cars can be damaged in T-bone crashes, and both drivers need to stay calm and seek medical attention if they're involved in a T-bone collision.

Head-on Collisions

Head-on collisions in cars occur when a driver strikes another vehicle from the side or on the front. Head-on accidents are often the result of drivers who fail to check their blind spot before changing lanes or turning into traffic. When both vehicles travel in the same direction, the likelihood of a head-on collision is greatest for large cars and SUVs because they have more space to maneuver.

Most Common Causes of Car Accidents Resulting In Injuries in Kansas City

Several factors can contribute to Kansas City car accidents resulting in injuries. Most of these can be avoided if drivers take reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of others.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving, also known as inattentive driving, is a term used to describe a driver's inattention or lack of focus while behind the wheel. Many factors can contribute to Kansas City distracted driving, including cell phone use, eating and drinking, talking to passengers, and reading a map. Although some people might not realize it, distracted driving is illegal in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Drunk Driving

Drunk driving causes car crashes because consuming alcohol impairs a driver's ability to react to danger. When a Kansas City driver is under the influence of alcohol, they lose their ability to make quick decisions and maintain steady hand-eye coordination ending in an accident and causing severe injuries. This can lead to dangerous driving behaviors such as weaving, swerving, and speeding, responsible for the accident and injuries. Alcohol also blurs a driver's judgment, making it more likely that the driver will take unnecessary risks on the Kansas City road.

Bad Weather Conditions

Bad weather conditions frequently cause serious car crashes throughout Kansas City. Rain, sleet, and snow can be dangerous for drivers trying to see clearly or drive at a steady speed. Windy conditions can also be problematic for drivers because the wind can throw items like tree branches and loose gravel onto the road. Even when it's not raining or snowing, bad weather can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians and other vehicles on the road.

Road Construction

Car accidents can result from construction sites that are not adequately maintained. As these sites become busier, workers may forget to clean up debris and oil spills. Drivers may also be distracted by work being done on the road.

Motor Vehicle Crash Data

The latest crash statistics reported by the NHTSA are related to the following driving errors:

  • Recognition errors are the top cause of motor vehicle accidents at 41%. This includes inattention, distracted driving (internal and external distractions), and lack of surveillance (looking out for potential problems). Distracted driving alone caused 3,154 fatalities and 424,000 injuries, making up 16% of all traffic crashes.
  • Decision errors account for 33% of accidents, including speeding, illegal driving maneuvers, and false assumptions of other drivers’ actions. Aggressive driving caused 56% of all fatal crashes with excessive speed as the main factor. Running red lights cause over 900 fatalities and 2,000 injuries on U.S. roads yearly.
  • Performance errors such as overcompensation or lack of directional control are responsible for causing 11% of accidents.
  • Non-performance errors include driver fatigue, drowsy driving, or falling asleep at the wheel. This accounts for 7% of motor vehicle accidents.

Statute of Limitation for Car Accident Cases in Missouri

Missouri's statute of limitation for car accident cases is five years. This means that you have five years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, it's important to note that the statute of limitation may differ if you file a claim against a government agency.

How a Kansas City Car Accident Injury Attorney Can Help

The costs of medical care, treatments, and therapies related to your injuries can financially strain you and your family. Know that you are not alone and have the right to receive compensation.

Here's how our Kansas City personal injury attorneys can help with your accident claim:

  • Legal consultation. Provide a free initial consultation to discuss the details of your case, evaluate its merits, and advise you on the best course of action.
  • Investigation. Conduct a comprehensive investigation to gather evidence, including accident reports, eyewitness statements, medical records, and any other relevant information to build a strong case.
  • Gathering expert witnesses. Identify and consult with expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, to provide professional opinions and testimony supporting your case.
  • Documentation and filing. Assist in preparing and filing all necessary legal documents, such as insurance claims, court filings, and other paperwork required for your personal injury case.
  • Negotiation skills. Negotiate with the opposing party's legal representatives to reach a favorable settlement agreement that adequately compensates you for your injuries and losses.
  • Client support and guidance. Offer compassionate support, answer your questions, keep you informed about the progress of your case, and provide guidance throughout the entire legal process.
  • Trial preparation and representation. If necessary, prepare your case for trial and provide skilled representation in court, presenting your case to a judge and/or jury and advocating for maximum compensation.

What to Do After Being Involved in a Kansas City, MO Car Accident

After being involved in a car accident, there are things you need to do right away.

  • Seek Medical Attention: After a Kansas city car accident, it is crucial to get treated to avoid complications. Your doctor's report will also serve as important evidence while filing your car accident claim.
  • Gather Evidence: You should take pictures of the accident scenes and the license plate number of the at-fault party after the accident. It is also important to keep copies of medical expenses, doctor's reports, and police reports. Your chances of winning a car accident lawsuit will be high if you have enough evidence to prove your case.
  • Exchange Contact Information With the Other Driver: After an accident, exchanging contact information with the other driver is important. This will allow the other driver to contact you if they need further assistance after the car accident. Another critical reason for exchanging contact information is so that you can notify your insurance company about the auto accident. You can also use this opportunity to get a copy of their insurance card and other relevant documents.
  • Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney: An attorney can help you understand the different ways you can sue the person who was at fault for your injuries and other damages and can also help you determine whether or not it makes sense for you to file a lawsuit.

Types of Compensation Available to Car Accident Victims in Missouri

If you've been injured in a car accident in Missouri, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. The exact amount you can receive depends on the facts of your case, but common types of compensation include:

Here's an explanation of why these topics are important in personal injury cases and how they can help win in court:

1. Medical expenses

  • Provides concrete evidence of injury severity
  • Shows the financial burden placed on the victim
  • Can include both current and future projected costs
  • Easily quantifiable and verifiable through medical records and bills

2. Lost wages

  • Demonstrates the economic impact of the injury
  • Includes both past and potential future earnings lost
  • Can be calculated using pay stubs, tax returns, and expert testimony
  • Shows how the injury affects the victim's ability to work and earn a living

3. Pain and suffering

  • Addresses the non-economic damages experienced by the victim
  • Can include physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life
  • While subjective, it can be supported by medical records, expert testimony, and personal accounts
  • Often results in significant compensation, especially in severe injury cases

4. Loss of consortium

  • Recognizes the impact of the injury on the victim's relationships, particularly with a spouse
  • Includes loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy
  • Demonstrates how the injury affects not just the victim, but their family as well
  • Can be supported by testimony from family members and mental health professionals

These topics are crucial in personal injury cases because they provide a comprehensive view of how the injury has affected the victim's life. They cover both economic (medical expenses, lost wages) and non-economic (pain and suffering, loss of consortium) damages, giving a full picture of the impact.

5. Presenting strong evidence in these areas can

  • Show the full extent of damages suffered by the victim
  • Justify the compensation amount being sought
  • Appeal to both the logical and emotional aspects of the case
  • Provide a clear narrative of how the injury has disrupted the victim's life

Would you like me to elaborate on any of these points or provide more information on how to effectively present this evidence in court?

If you're considering filing a car accident claim, it's important to speak with a lawyer who can help you determine your best course of action.

 

Why Choose Peterson and Associates Accident Injury Law Firm

Best Personal Injury Lawyers in MissouriThe firm's success is rooted in their thorough preparation and aggressive representation. They leave no stone unturned when investigating claims, consulting with experts, and building strong cases. This meticulous approach has resulted in numerous favorable settlements and verdicts for their clients over the years.

Peterson & Associates also prides itself on clear communication. They keep clients informed at every step of the legal process, explaining complex legal concepts in understandable terms. This transparency helps clients make informed decisions about their cases and fosters a sense of trust and partnership.

Contact Our Kansas City Car Accident Lawyer

Auto accidents are often traumatizing. If you've been injured in a car accident in Kansas City, you need a lawyer who understands the Missouri legal system and can help you get the compensation you deserve. 

Peterson & Associates, P.C. knows what it takes to win your case. Our attorneys have years of experience dealing with insurance companies and know how to get you the best possible outcome. We'll work hard to ensure you're taken care of, so don't hesitate to call us today.

Contact a Kansas City car accident attorney at our personal injury law for a free case evaluation to discuss your legal options.

Address: 801 W. 47th Street, Suite 107

Location: Kansas City, MO 64112

Phone: 816-888-8888

Directions to our Kansas City Office

Kansas City, Missouri, is a vibrant Midwestern metropolis known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and unique blend of urban sophistication and down-home charm. The city boasts an array of landmarks that showcase its diverse character and appeal to visitors and residents alike.

Directions From Landmarks in Kansas City, MO

Main highways near Kansas City:

  • I-70 (east-west)
  • I-35 (north-south)
  • I-29 (north-south)
  • I-435 (loop around the city)
  • US-71 (north-south)

Peterson & Associates is located at 801 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112. 

From I-70 (eastbound or westbound):

Take exit 2H for US-71 South
Merge onto US-71 S/Bruce R. Watkins Dr
Take the exit for 47th St
Turn right onto W 47th St
Peterson & Associates will be on your right

From I-35 (northbound or southbound):

Take exit 1A for Southwest Trafficway
Head south on Southwest Trafficway
Turn left onto W 47th St
Peterson & Associates will be on your left

From I-435 (northbound or southbound):

Take exit 69 for 103rd St
Head west on W 103rd St
Turn right onto Wornall Rd
Turn left onto W 47th St
Peterson & Associates will be on your right

 

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