What to Do After a Car Accident

March 21, 2024

By

DM Injury Law

No one ever wants to be in a car crash, but as people get more distracted behind the wheel or the weather becomes more severe, accidents occur. Taking the right steps after being in a car accident in Kansas City can greatly improve the odds of getting the medical care you need and securing the amount of financial compensation you deserve for being a victim.

From dealing with law enforcement to managing insurance claims, knowing the right steps prevents costly mistakes. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for what to do after you are in a car accident in Kansas City, ensuring you prioritize your safety while protecting your legal rights.

Injured in a car accident in Kansas City? Here are some of the most dangerous intersections in Kansas City.

Key Takeaways of What to Do After a Car Accident

Prioritize safety at the scene by moving to a safe location if possible, checking for injuries, and contacting law enforcement when required.
Document everything early by exchanging information, photographing the scene and vehicles, and gathering witness details to preserve evidence.
Seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries aren’t obvious, since symptoms can appear later and medical records matter.
Be careful what you say after a crash, avoid admitting fault, and make sure required accident reports are filed on time.
Handle insurance cautiously, notify your insurer, and avoid quick settlements or recorded statements before fully understanding your rights.

Essential Steps After a Kansas City Car Accident

1. Immediate Actions at the Scene

The first steps you take after a car accident are some of the most important. You must watch what you say and make sure you prioritize your safety.

Move to Safety: If your vehicle is drivable, move it to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot.
Alert Others: Turn on your hazard lights immediately to warn approaching traffic.
Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and your passengers. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
Contact the Police: In Missouri, you are legally required to report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $500 (RSMo 300.110). A police report provides an unbiased record that is vital for your recovery.

2. Information Exchange and Documentation

While waiting for authorities, gather evidence that you can use for your case. The shock of the accident can make you forget important details in the moment. That’s why it’s important to document the scene to make your claim stronger.

Exchange Details: Collect names, contact info, driver’s license numbers, and insurance policy details from all drivers involved.
Note Vehicle Info: Record license plate numbers, makes, and models.
Take Pictures and Videos: Use your phone to take wide-angle photos and videos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs.
Identify Witnesses: If there were witnesses who saw the accident, ask for their names and phone numbers; their testimony can be used to determine fault.

3. Medical Attention and Reporting

Whether you’re suffering from catastrophic injuries or don’t notice any apparent wounds, you should always seek medical care. Injuries can show up over time.

Seek Medical Care: Adrenaline from the accident often masks serious pain. Visit an ER or urgent care immediately to rule out internal injuries or concussions.
File Form 1140: If an officer didn’t investigate and damage exceeds $500, you must report the crash to the Missouri Department of Revenue within 30 days (RSMo 303.040).

Learn More: Can I Sue Even If I Wasn’t Hurt in a Car Accident?

4. Protect Your Legal Rights

You need an experienced and aggressive car accident lawyer to help you seek the financial compensation and justice you are owed.

Watch Your Words: Never admit fault at the scene. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you by insurance companies.
Hire a Car Accident Attorney: A skilled car accident attorney can provide the knowledge, expertise, and advocacy needed to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Secure the Crash Report: Request your official report from the KCPD Records Section or via BuyCrash.
Know the Deadline: Missouri generally allows five years to file a claim (RSMo 516.120), but acting early is the best way to preserve evidence and build a strong case.

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5. Navigating Insurance Claims

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Hiring a lawyer will help you understand your legal options and rights, potentially leading to a higher settlement.

Notify Your Provider: Report the accident to your insurer promptly to satisfy policy requirements.
Be Skeptical of Early Offers: Don’t sign release forms or give recorded statements without legal advice. Initial offers are often “low-ball” settlements.
Focus on Recovery: Let an experienced attorney handle the insurance companies for you. We will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.

Kansas City Car Accident FAQs

Should I accept the first settlement offer?

No. Initial offers are usually calculated to be as low as possible. Always have a lawyer review an offer to ensure it covers all current and future damages.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If you have Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, which is required in Missouri, your own policy should cover your bodily injury damages up to your policy limits.

Protecting Your Future After a Crash

Following these steps will help you navigate the immediate aftermath of a car accident in Kansas City effectively. However, the road to recovery can be long and complex. You should not have to face large insurance companies alone.

At DM Injury Law, we specialize in standing up for those who have been seriously injured. We understand the physical pain and financial stress you are under and are ready to help you seek the compensation you’re owed.

We have secured over $1 billion for our clients. Here are a few examples of our successful car accident cases:

$11,000,000: Our client’s son was killed in a work zone.
$8,800,000: Our client suffered a TBI after an accident.
$4,600,000: Our client sustained a TBI and broke multiple bones after an accident.

If you’re looking for a reliable car accident lawyer in Kansas City, remember, Mike’s Got This! Schedule a free consultation with us today by calling us at 816-888-7500.

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