Were you hurt in a serious accident caused by the negligence of another party? You have the right to file a claim to seek compensation for your damages, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This raises an important question: How do you actually file a personal injury claim? In this article, our Kansas City personal injury attorney answers the question by highlighting some of the most important steps within the legal claims process in Missouri.
Step #1: Get Immediate Medical Attention and Document the Accident
The personal injury claims process starts in the immediate aftermath of an accident. The first—and most crucial step—following any accident in Missouri is to seek immediate medical attention. Not only is this vital for your health, but medical records also serve as important evidence in your personal injury claim. Beyond that, you should also make a proactive effort to document the accident.
Step #2: Notify All Insurance Companies That are Implicated
Most personal injury cases are defended by insurance companies. All insurance companies should be notified that an accident happened. To be clear, you should make sure your own insurance is notified after a motor vehicle crash, and any other party’s insurance company is also notified.
Step #3: Schedule a Free Consultation With a Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer
Personal injury law in Missouri is complicated. The right professional advocate can make a difference. Do not go up against a big insurance company alone. The best step that you can take after a serious accident is to set up a free, confidential consultation with a top-tier attorney.
Step #4: Prepare a Demand Letter—Should Be Drafted By an Attorney
Insurance companies will often lead with lowball settlement offers. A demand letter is a tool that can help move your case toward a full and fair settlement. The Legal Information Institute explains that a demand letter is designed to “begin the negotiation process.” It should always be drafted by an experienced Kansas City personal injury lawyer.
Step #5: Negotiate for a Settlement With the Defendant/Insurance Company
Few cases actually end up in a trial. An ideal result is to negotiate a settlement from the defendant/insurer that truly covers the full scope of your damages. Your lawyer can help you fight to get the best settlement.
Step #6: File a Complaint (Personal Injury Lawsuit)
If a settlement cannot be reached, the next step is to file a personal injury lawsuit. Your complaint officially starts your case in the judicial system. Of course, the claims process will have already started. A complaint must be drafted by an attorney. It will allow the allegations, overview the evidence, and clarify your damages.
Contact Our Kansas City Personal Injury Lawyer Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City personal injury attorneys are skilled, experienced, and justice-focused advocates for injured victims. Preparing to file a claim? We are more than ready to help. Contact us today for a no-cost, no-obligation case review. From our Kansas City office, we represent injured victims throughout the wider region of Missouri.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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