St. Joseph Car Accident Attorney With Over A Decade Of Experience
Car accidents in Missouri and Kansas are alarmingly frequent and often result in severe injuries or fatalities. In 2023, Kansas City reported 102 traffic-related deaths, up from 90 in 2022. Such incidents can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens for victims and their families.
At Eslinger Law Firm, we provide comprehensive legal representation for individuals involved in car accidents of all kinds. Our dedicated personal injury lawyer is committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Attorney Jason Eslinger is licensed to practice in both Missouri and Kansas.
Common Causes Of Car Accidents
Auto accidents can result rom a variety of factors. Just a few of the most frequent ones include:
- Distracted driving: Activities like texting, eating or adjusting in-car technologies.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits.
- Drunk driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence.
- Trucking accidents: When car accidents involve commercial semi trucks.
- Reckless driving: Reckless behaviors such as tailgating, unsafe lane changes and ignoring traffic signals.
- Aggressive driving: Cutting other drivers off, road rage, brake-checking and other aggressive actions.
- Head-on collisions: When the front of one car collides with the front of another.
- Hit-and-run-accidents: At least one party to the crash flees the scene before providing their information.
- Highway accidents: Crashes that occur on highways such as I-29, I-229, U.S. 36 and more.
- T-bone crashes: A collision where one car crashes into the side of another.
We have handled incidents involving these accidents and many more kinds.
The Legal Steps To Take After A Car Accident
What should I do after a car accident? This is a question that no one wants to think about, but many of us eventually will. After a crash, try to:
- Ensure safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
- Stay at the scene, if it is safe: Missouri law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop immediately; leaving the scene is illegal.
- Report the accident: Call 911. Missouri law mandates reporting accidents involving injury, death or significant property damage.
- Document the scene: Take photographs of vehicle damage, the accident scene and relevant details.
- Exchange information: Collect names, insurance details and vehicle information from all involved parties.
- Seek medical attention: Even if injuries aren’t immediately apparent, consult a health care professional.
- Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurer promptly to initiate the claims process.
Finally, consult a personal injury lawyer. Insurers will try to minimize the amount that they pay you. Your attorney will level the playing field.
Missouri Car Accident Laws: What To Know
This is a basic overview of some of Missouri’s most important rules regarding car accidents:
- Statute of limitations: In Missouri, you have five years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Comparative fault: Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule, meaning compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.
- Insurance requirements: Missouri law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance with minimum coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
When you speak with Mr. Eslinger, he can explain the relevant laws in greater detail.
What Are Kansas’ Car Accident Laws?
Do you live or work in Kansas and had an auto accident there? These are some of the important laws to know:
- Statute of limitations: In Kansas, you have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit.
- Comparative fault: Kansas follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.
- Insurance requirements: Kansas law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance with minimum coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
Because Mr. Eslinger practices in both states, he can help you with cases in Kansas, as well.
Why Choose Our Law Firm?
We understand the complexities of car accident cases in Missouri and Kansas. Our dedicated team is committed to guiding you through the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. We handle negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, represent you in court to protect your rights.
Make Your Free Consultation With A Missouri Car Accident Lawyer
In the aftermath of a serious crash, you deserve serious counsel. Eslinger Law Firm is here to advise you of your rights and assist you with all steps of your claim. For a complimentary consultation, please call us at 816-463-4833 or send us an email today.