What to do after a Missouri auto accident?

The cleanup process after an auto accident in Missouri can be quite overwhelming. Here are some best practices to help you through the difficult time.

At the Scene

Gather Information

• Be courteous and polite, but do not admit fault.
• Take the names and car insurance information of any drivers involved in the accident.
• Get names and contact information for any witnesses to the accident.
• Provide your name and insurance information to the police and to other driver(s).

Document the Accident

If you have a smart phone or camera, take photos to document the scene if it is safe to do so. Include pictures of:

• License plates of involved vehicles.
• Damage to your vehicle.
• Damage to other vehicles.
• Damage to property other than vehicles.
• Objects at the scene, including accident debris, skid marks, fallen branches, etc.
• Street signs or other landmarks to identify the accident location.
• Any contributing factors to the accident, such as obscured traffic signs.

Take Note of:

• Time and date.
• Weather and traffic conditions.
• Description of the accident.
• Description of injuries and damage.
• Details of police or emergency involvement.

After the Accident

Document Everything

• Get a copy of any accident reports or incidents reports filed by the police and other drivers to assist in settling your claim.

• Always write down names of any investigators, including police officers or insurance claims adjustors.
• Whenever you speak to an insurance company representative, note the date, the name of the person, and a brief description of the conversation.
• Keep receipts of all expenditures, including transportation, parking costs, and repair costs.

Don’t sign any thing without consulting a MISSOURI injury attorney

You may be asked by an insurance company to sign forms that would waive your right to receive appropriate compensation. It’s easy to be persuaded to accept an initial offer, but be wary because insurance companies never take the time and effort to understand what your case is worth. Hire a knowledgeable Missouri injury attorney to help you through this confusing process.

Don’t give recorded statements

After a Missouri auto accident, one or both insurance companies will call and ask you for a recorded statement. Don’t give one until you’ve talked to a Kansas City injury attorney. It’s too easy to accidentally say things that will damage your case before an investigation has even begun. If you feel uncomfortable with the insurance company’s process, Janelle Bailey, Injury Attorney, a call for a free case evaluation and let us explain your rights in terms that are easy to understand.

Don’t rush to accept an offer

Medical treatment can be expensive and the insurance companies know this. They’re motivated to settle your claim quickly, often before your medical treatment has come to an end. You have enough to worry about without being rushed through the process. Let Janelle Bailey, Injury Attorney, help level the playing field.

Contact the KANSAS CITY Law Firm of JANELLE BAILEY, for a Complimentary Case Review; No Fees Unless We Win Your Case

If you were injured in an auto accident, the Kansas City car accident lawyer Janelle Bailey is available to speak to you immediately. It is advisable to seek legal counsel prior to making any statements to insurance or claims adjusters because any information you reveal to them may be used against you in future proceedings. At the Kansas City Law Office of Janelle Bailey, you will speak with an actual attorney and you will be given the individual attention that you need and deserve. There are no fees involved unless we successfully settle your case or win at trial and we advance costs related to the case. To schedule your free case review, contact the Kansas City Law Office of Janelle Bailey, by calling 816-286-3625.