The streets and roadways in Jackson County can be hectic. If you are not alert, you could end up in an accident. Even with the best safety precautions, there is always someone who does not follow the rules.
Unfortunately, not all drivers prioritize safe driving. In an auto collision resulting in injuries and losses, you may want to seek legal assistance from a Kansas City car accident lawyer.
Thomas Law Offices is here to support you throughout the legal process following an auto accident. We understand that this period can be uncertain and overwhelming. Our team will advocate for your rights and work to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible. Get in touch with us by phone or email to schedule a free consultation to discuss legal options for securing a settlement today.
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Jackson County Car Accident Statistics
In the city and the rest of our county, there are a few hot spots for all types of crashes. They include:
- I-70 & I-435
- Bannister Rd & I-435
- I-470 & Blue Ridge Blvd
- Front St & I-35
- Red Bridge Rd & 71 Highway
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, auto accidents in our state injured 52,109 and killed 1,016 in 2021. At least 114 of those traffic fatalities occurred here in Jackson County. Unfortunately, many of those collisions that injured victims left them with significant impairments with associated massive medical bills and lost income.
When car crashes like these occur, you may be able to claim compensation from any negligent parties responsible for its occurrence. Consult with our legal team at Thomas Law Offices to determine if you have a pursuable case.
The Top Causes of Car Crashes in Kansas City, MO
In Kansas City, much like any other Missouri city, poor driver behaviors top the list of factors that cause car crashes. Some common types of reckless driving our state’s drivers engage in include:
Distracted Driving
When behind the wheel, the driver’s full attention should be on the road. However, using a cell phone or being preoccupied with something else while driving is a leading cause of car accidents in the area. One moment of distraction can lead to a serious collision.
Speeding
Another major contributing factor in accidents is speed. When high speeds are involved, drivers have less time to react to sudden traffic or road conditions changes. Also, crashes at high speed often lead to more catastrophic injuries and damages.
Intoxicated Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which is referred to here in Missouri as driving while intoxicated (DWI), is not only illegal but a reckless action that causes far too many preventable auto accidents. Impaired motorists struggle to adjust to changes in road conditions. They often swerve and make maneuvers that endanger fellow drivers.
Road Rage
Over the years, instances of road rage and reckless driving have caused a significant number of accidents in Kansas City. When emotions flare up on the road, it can lead to dangerous maneuvers and potentially hazardous situations for all drivers. These drivers may tailgate, swerve into other lanes, and use excessive speed, all of which can lead to devastating crashes that cause injuries and deaths.
If any of the dangerous actions described above are responsible for the auto collision that injured you, it may be time to seek legal help. Our Kansas City car accident lawyer can help you explore your legal options. Contact us now for help in determining whether you have a valid claim. Meeting with our attorneys is free of charge.
Have You Been Injured in a Vehicle Accident in West Central Missouri?
Some of the most common types of injuries that stem from car crashes in Kansas City, MO include:
- Whiplash: This common neck injury leads to neck pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion.
- Brain damage: Car crashes can potentially cause traumatic brain injuries, ranging from mild concussions to severe, life-altering effects.
- Back injuries: These can affect mobility, cause chronic pain, and require extensive rehabilitation.
- Paralysis: In severe cases, a car crash can result in loss of movement and sensation.
- Internal bleeding: This is a hidden but dangerous injury that can be life-threatening.
- Eye injuries: These can occur from debris during a crash and carry a risk of blindness.
- Broken bones: Any type of fracture can require surgery and physical therapy, resulting in long-term complications.
- Burns: Serious skin damage can occur if a fire breaks out during a crash.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): This mental health issue can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and other debilitating symptoms.
These injuries can put a significant strain on your physical, mental, and financial health. If an accident resulted from another person’s reckless or negligent behavior, you could hold them accountable for your damages and other losses.
What Type of Damages Can I Recover?
If you have experienced some type of financial or non-monic loss, you may be able to recover through a personal injury lawsuit or wrongful death action. The most common damages involve:
- Medical expenses: Emergency room visits, hospital care, surgery, assistive devices, and appointments with approved medical professionals can all be recovered. These costs cover both current and future medical expenses.
- Lost wages: If you took time off work or cannot perform your job at your previous capacity due to your injuries, you may recover compensation for lost income.
- Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from earning as you did before the accident, you could get compensation for those losses.
- Pain and suffering: These damages are awarded for the physical pain caused by injuries sustained in the accident.
- Mental anguish: This damage award is considered the emotional distress caused by the accident and the injuries incurred.
- Property damage: If your vehicle or any other property was damaged in an accident, you can sometimes get reimbursed for the repairs or for the fair market value of the lost property.
While these are the most common awards, you could receive punitive damages. In these cases where the defendant’s actions causing the accident were reckless, damages are awarded in addition to any compensatory damages.
Additionally, if the auto collision claimed a loved one’s life, you may be able to claim compensation for funeral and burial costs as well.
While your attorney may be unable to provide you with an exact value of your case from the onset, you can certainly expect them to provide you with an estimate as soon as during your free initial consultation. This is why we urge you to bring any bills you may have already received with you to that meeting with us at Thomas Law Offices so we can begin assessing how much of a financial recovery you may be entitled to. Gather your documentation and reach out to us right away.
What Happens If I’m Partly At Fault?
When it comes to car accident cases in Missouri, the state follows a rule known as comparative negligence. Under this rule, even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still file a lawsuit and potentially recover damages. But keep in mind that the percentage of your fault will reduce your compensation.
Missouri follows a “pure” comparative negligence rule. Even if you are 99% at fault for the accident, you can still recover 1% of the damages from the other party.
What Is the Deadline To Take Legal Action After a Car Crash in Kansas City?
According to the Missouri Revised Statutes section 516.12012, there are different time limits for filing lawsuits based on the details of your case.
For personal injury and property damage resulting from a car accident, you have five years from the accident date to file a claim.
In cases of wrongful death resulting from a car accident, a family member or representative has three years from the date of the person’s death to file the paperwork.
In any of these cases, you will want to reach out to a reliable and experienced legal team to handle your case. At Thomas Law Offices, we can make sure that your case adheres to all deadlines so you don’t lose your opportunity to recover compensation.
Turn to Thomas Law Offices To Help in Your Kansas City Car Accident Case
When you’re involved in an accident caused by a negligent driver, the impact can turn your life upside down. During these difficult times, you need the right legal support.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a serious accident can take on your life. This is why we are committed to doing everything we can to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
While many cases can be resolved through negotiation and settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial, if necessary, to ensure you receive justice and fair compensation.
Contact our law office today to schedule a free case evaluation. You can have peace of mind knowing that you have a compassionate and dedicated Kansas City car accident lawyer who will fight for you every step of the way.
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