Common Myths About Car Accident Claims In St. Louis: What You Need To Know

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Navigating a car accident claim in Missouri can be tricky, especially when certain myths about the process can lead to confusion or prevent people from seeking the full compensation they deserve. Knowing the facts can make a big difference in your approach and help you avoid common mistakes.

In this article, you can discover insights on:

• Why calling the police, even for minor accidents, is often beneficial.
• What Missouri law says about fault and insurance rate changes.
• How much you could actually recover for pain and suffering, even if you were partially at fault for the accident.

Do I Have To Call The Police Even If The Car Accident Was Minor?

You aren’t legally required to call the police for a minor car accident, but it’s generally a good idea. Having an official record, whether it’s a full police report or just a log entry, can help protect you in case there are disputes later on. 

Since every accident involves multiple perspectives, failing to call the police can mean it will become much harder to prove your side of the story later on. The police can serve as a neutral third party and can provide documentation of the incident, which can be valuable for insurance claims or legal purposes, even if no immediate serious damage seems apparent.

Will My Insurance Rates Always Increase If I File A Car Accident Claim?

Your insurance rates won’t always necessarily increase just because you file a car accident claim. In Missouri, if you’re not at fault for the accident, your rates generally shouldn’t go up. 

Instead, your insurance company will typically pursue reimbursement from the at-fault party’s insurer through a process called subrogation. 

Since you’re not the one responsible, they shouldn’t penalize you with higher premiums just for filing the claim. However, if you are found to be at fault, that’s when rate increases may come into play.

Is It True That You Can Sue For Pain And Suffering In Missouri?

It actually is true that you can sue for pain and suffering in Missouri. Pain and suffering are recognized elements of damages in Missouri personal injury cases. While physical injuries like a broken leg are compensable, the emotional and physical hardship associated with those injuries is also considered. 

The challenge here lies in effectively presenting and arguing pain and suffering, as it is a subjective form of damage. However, it is very much recoverable in Missouri with the right legal strategy.

Can I File A Personal Injury Claim If I Was Partially At Fault For My Car Accident In Missouri?

You can still file a claim if you were partially at fault for a car accident in Missouri. Missouri follows a comparative fault system, meaning you can recover damages even if you were partly to blame for the accident. 

However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you are found 30% at fault, your recovery will be reduced by 30%. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still pursue compensation.

Is It True That My Claim Will Be Denied If I Didn’t Seek Medical Attention After The Accident?

Your claim will not automatically be denied if you didn’t seek medical attention after the accident. However, failing to seek immediate medical attention can make it harder to prove the extent of your injuries later on, as there may be no medical records linking the injury directly to the accident.

With this in mind, it’s wise to seek medical care after an accident, even if you feel fine, because some injuries might not be immediately apparent. Medical documentation strengthens your case and adds credibility to your injury claim.

Is It True That Hiring A Personal Injury Attorney Is Only For People Who Already Have Money?

It is indeed a myth that hiring a personal injury attorney is too expensive or only for people with money. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they successfully recover money for you. 

This allows you, regardless of your financial situation, to access legal representation without excessive upfront costs. Be cautious of any attorney who demands payment before handling a personal injury case.

How We Support Clients Like You

When someone comes to me feeling overwhelmed and stressed after an accident, I start by thoroughly explaining the legal process to give them a clear understanding of what to expect and what the potential outcome might be. 

This provides them with a sense of direction and a finish line to focus on, which can help alleviate some of the initial anxiety. I believe that open communication is key to building trust and ensuring the client knows we’re working together toward their best interest.

In cases where the stress is extreme, or the injuries are particularly severe, I may recommend additional resources, such as psychological support or counseling, especially if the trauma has had a significant emotional impact. Every client’s situation is different, so my approach is tailored to what they need to feel supported throughout the process.

Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?

For more information on Car Accident Claims In St. Louis, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (314) 786-3536 today.