A car accident can happen in a split second. One moment you’re driving to work, and the next you’re sitting in a damaged vehicle, shaken and unsure of what to do. The steps you take in the minutes, hours, and days after a crash are crucial. They can make or break your ability to recover fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Insurance companies have their own playbook designed to pay you as little as possible. This guide gives you yours. Here’s exactly what to do to protect your rights and your claim.
If you have been hurt in a car accident in Springfield or anywhere in Southwest Missouri, contact The Law Office of Chad G. Mann for a free consultation. Call (417) 842-8679 to speak directly with an attorney about your case.
This guide walks you through every step of the process, from the moment of impact through filing your claim and protecting your legal rights under Missouri law. Unlike the advice you will find from insurance companies, this guide is written from the perspective of someone who fights for accident victims every day.
“Accident” vs. “Crash”: Why Your Words Matter
The words we use to describe an event carry a lot of weight, and this is especially true after a car wreck. You’ll often hear the word “accident” used, but many safety advocates and legal professionals are moving away from that term. Why? Because “accident” suggests an unavoidable act of fate, something that couldn’t be stopped and for which no one is to blame. While some collisions are truly unpreventable, the reality is that most are caused by human error. Things like texting while driving, speeding, or running a red light aren’t just unlucky moments; they are choices that lead to predictable, and often devastating, outcomes.
Using a more neutral term like “crash” or “collision” acknowledges this reality. It leaves room for the fact that someone’s negligence was likely the cause. This distinction is more than just semantics; it’s the foundation of a personal injury claim. Insurance companies may prefer the term “accident” because it minimizes the role of their insured driver’s fault. However, to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain, you must prove that the other driver was negligent. Recognizing that the event was a preventable crash, not a random accident, is the first step in protecting your legal rights.
Defining a Traffic Collision
So, what exactly is a traffic collision? The definition is quite broad. A traffic collision, or car crash, occurs whenever a vehicle strikes something. That “something” could be another car, a pedestrian, an animal, road debris, or a stationary object like a utility pole or a building. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender in a parking lot or a multi-car pileup on the highway, they all fall under this definition. Each of these events has the potential to cause serious injuries and financial hardship, which is why understanding the different types of automobile accidents and your rights is so critical after any kind of impact.
The Sobering Statistics Behind Car Crashes
It’s easy for statistics to feel abstract, but the numbers surrounding car crashes represent real people and families in our communities whose lives are changed in an instant. Looking at the data isn’t about causing fear; it’s about understanding the scope of the problem and the importance of being prepared. When you see how frequently these incidents occur, it becomes clear that knowing what to do after a crash is an essential life skill. The statistics also reveal a crucial truth: the vast majority of collisions are preventable. They are the result of specific, identifiable behaviors that put everyone on the road at risk.
These numbers paint a picture of why holding negligent drivers accountable is so important. It not only provides justice for the injured person but also promotes safer roads for everyone. When you’ve been hurt, you become one of these statistics—a person facing medical recovery, financial strain, and emotional trauma. At The Law Office of Chad G. Mann, we work with the individuals behind the numbers, helping them find a path toward recovery and holding at-fault parties responsible for the harm they’ve caused. Understanding the risks is the first step; knowing who to call for help is the next.
A Global and National Overview
The scale of traffic collisions is staggering. In the United States alone, car crashes are a daily tragedy. According to national data, about 100 people die in motor vehicle crashes every single day. In just one recent year, 2019, there were 36,096 fatalities and an astounding 2.74 million people injured in crashes across the country. These aren’t just numbers on a page; they represent thousands of families grappling with loss and millions of individuals facing long, painful, and expensive recoveries. The sheer volume of these incidents underscores how vulnerable we all are when we get behind the wheel or even just cross the street.
Key Risk Factors by the Numbers
If most crashes are preventable, what’s causing them? Overwhelmingly, the answer is driver error. Research shows that human error is a contributing factor in approximately 93% of all crashes. This includes a wide range of negligent behaviors, from distraction and impairment to aggression and carelessness. For more than two decades, speeding has been a factor in about one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities. Other common causes include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, failing to yield the right-of-way, and distracted driving. When another driver’s mistake causes you harm, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden alone. Proving that one of these factors led to your crash is key to a successful claim.
Your First 10 Minutes at the Car Accident Scene
What you do at the accident scene sets the foundation for everything that follows. Staying calm is easier said than done, but the actions you take right now directly affect your safety and your legal options.
First: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Before you do anything else, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, request emergency medical services. Many car accident injuries, including whiplash, concussions, and internal bleeding, do not show symptoms right away. A delayed diagnosis of closed head trauma from a car accident is common and can be dangerous if left untreated.
In Missouri, you are required to call the police if an accident involves any injury, a death, or property damage exceeding $500. Given that most accidents exceed that threshold, calling 911 is almost always the right call.
Move to a Safer Spot, If Possible
If your vehicle is drivable and you are not seriously injured, move it to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights. If the car cannot be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives, especially on highways or busy roads.
Exchange Key Information with the Other Driver
Get the following from every driver involved:
- Full name and contact information
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers too. Witness statements can be valuable evidence if there is a dispute about what happened.
Use Your Phone to Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos of everything:
- Damage to all vehicles involved (close-up and wide shots)
- The position of the vehicles in the road
- Skid marks, debris, and road conditions
- Traffic signs, signals, and road markings near the scene
- Your injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
- Weather and lighting conditions
Take more photos than you think you need. Digital storage is free, and these images become critical evidence when insurance companies dispute the severity of the accident.
A Crucial Reminder: Never Admit Fault
This is one of the most important rules. Do not say “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” to anyone at the scene, even if you feel partially responsible. Under Missouri’s comparative fault rules, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. An offhand apology can be used against you later by insurance adjusters or defense attorneys.
Stick to the facts when speaking with the police. Describe what happened without speculating about who caused the crash.
Critical Steps in the First 24 Hours
Once you have left the scene, there are several time-sensitive steps to take. Do not wait on any of these.
Get a Medical Check-Up (Even If You Feel Fine)
Adrenaline masks pain. Many accident victims feel “okay” immediately after a crash, only to wake up the next morning unable to move. Whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and mild traumatic brain injuries can take hours or days to produce noticeable symptoms.
Seeing a doctor within 24 hours creates a medical record that links your injuries to the accident. If you wait weeks to seek treatment, the insurance company will argue that your injuries were not caused by the crash or are not as serious as you claim.
How to Get the Official Police Report
The officers who responded to your accident will file a report, usually within a few days. In Springfield, you can request a copy from the Springfield Police Department. For accidents on state highways, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol. This report contains the officer’s observations, witness statements, and sometimes an initial determination of fault.
Understanding the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Portal
If a State Trooper investigated your accident, you’ll get the official report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s online portal. It’s a helpful resource, but remember it only includes reports filed by the MSHP, not local police departments. The system lets you search using details you probably already know, like the county where the crash happened, the date, or the incident number you received at the scene. You can search for your report directly on their website. This document is crucial for your insurance claim and is one of the first pieces of evidence needed to build your case, so it’s a good idea to get a copy as soon as it’s available.
File Your Missouri Motor Vehicle Accident Report
Missouri law requires drivers involved in accidents that cause injury, death, or property damage over $500 to file a Motor Vehicle Accident Report (Form 1140) with the Missouri Department of Revenue within 30 days. Many drivers do not know about this requirement, and missing the deadline can create problems with your insurance coverage.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company promptly, but be careful about what you say. Provide the basic facts: when, where, and who was involved. Do not give a recorded statement or accept any settlement offers at this stage. Read our guide on filing an insurance claim after your accident for a detailed walkthrough.
Tip: You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Politely decline and tell them your attorney will be in touch.
Your Action Plan for the First Week
The first week is when your case starts to take shape. The evidence you gather and the decisions you make now will determine how strong your claim is months down the road.
Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Plan
Go to every appointment. Fill every prescription. Follow every recommendation. Insurance companies look for gaps in treatment to argue that you were not really hurt. If your doctor refers you to a specialist, go.
Keep a Journal to Track Your Symptoms
Write down how you feel each day. Note your pain level, what activities you cannot do, how your sleep is affected, and any emotional changes like anxiety or difficulty concentrating. This journal becomes evidence of your non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, which can represent a significant part of your claim.
Save All Receipts, Bills, and Documents
Keep everything related to the accident in one place:
- Medical bills and receipts
- Pay stubs showing lost wages
- Repair estimates and rental car receipts
- Correspondence with insurance companies
- Photos and the police report
Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle until your attorney and insurance company have had a chance to inspect it.
Is It Time to Speak with a Car Accident Attorney?
There are certain situations where legal representation is not just helpful but necessary. If any of the following apply to your case, you should speak with an attorney sooner rather than later:
- You suffered injuries requiring medical treatment beyond a single ER visit
- The other driver was uninsured or underinsured
- The insurance company is disputing fault or denying your claim
- You are being pressured to give a recorded statement
- Your medical bills are mounting and you are missing work
- The accident involved a commercial truck, rideshare vehicle, or government vehicle
Read more about the signs you need a personal injury attorney to decide if your situation calls for legal help.
Have questions about your car accident? Call (417) 842-8679 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Springfield auto accident injury attorney Chad G. Mann. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
How Missouri Law Affects Your Car Accident Claim
Missouri has several laws that directly impact how car accident claims work. Understanding these laws helps you avoid costly mistakes and sets realistic expectations for your case.
What “At-Fault State” Means for You
Missouri uses an at-fault system for car accidents. This means the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying the other party’s medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. You have three options for pursuing compensation:
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company
- File a claim with your own insurance and let them seek reimbursement
- File a personal injury lawsuit in court
How “Comparative Fault” Can Reduce Your Payout
Missouri follows a pure comparative fault standard. If you share some of the blame for the accident, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault, but you are not barred from recovering. For example, if a jury finds you 20% at fault on a $100,000 claim, you would receive $80,000.
This is more generous than many other states that cut off recovery entirely if you are more than 50% at fault. However, insurance adjusters will try to assign you as much fault as possible to reduce what they owe. That is one reason documentation and witness statements are so important.
Don’t Miss Missouri’s 5-Year Filing Deadline
The Missouri statute of limitations for injury claims gives you five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or property damage lawsuit (Mo. Rev. Stat. 516.120). Wrongful death claims have a three-year deadline.
While five years sounds like plenty of time, waiting too long weakens your case. Witnesses forget details. Surveillance footage gets deleted. Medical records become harder to connect to the accident. The sooner you act, the stronger your position.
Why Minimum Insurance Often Isn’t Enough
Missouri requires drivers to carry at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage, plus $25,000 in property damage coverage. For serious accidents involving hospital stays, surgery, or long-term treatment, these minimums are often not enough.
Missouri law also requires every liability policy to include uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. If the driver who hit you has no insurance or not enough insurance, your own UM/UIM policy can fill the gap.
Handling Communications with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to pay as little as possible on every claim. Here is what you should know about dealing with them.
Be Wary of Quick Settlement Offers
It is common for an insurance adjuster to call within days of your accident with a settlement offer. These early offers are almost always far below what your claim is worth. The adjuster knows that you have medical bills piling up and may be desperate for cash. That pressure is by design.
Before accepting any offer, you need to understand the full extent of your injuries and losses. Some injuries take weeks or months to fully diagnose and treat. Accepting an early settlement means you cannot go back and ask for more money later, even if your injuries turn out to be worse than you initially thought.
Should You Give the Insurer a Recorded Statement?
The other driver’s insurance company may ask you to provide a recorded statement. You are not legally required to do so. These statements are used to find inconsistencies or admissions that can be used to reduce or deny your claim. If you are asked for a recorded statement, it is best to consult with an insurance claim lawyer before agreeing.
Think Twice Before Signing a Medical Release Form
Insurance companies sometimes ask you to sign a medical authorization that gives them access to your entire medical history. They use this to look for pre-existing conditions they can blame for your current symptoms. Only authorize the release of records directly related to your accident injuries.
Document Every Conversation with the Adjuster
Save every letter, email, and text message from the insurance company. Write down the date, time, and summary of every phone call. If a dispute arises about what was said or offered, your records will protect you.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Car Accident?
Missouri law allows car accident victims to recover several types of damages, depending on the circumstances of the crash and the severity of the injuries.
Recovering Your Financial Losses (Economic Damages)
These are the measurable financial losses tied to the accident:
- Medical bills (emergency room, surgery, physical therapy, medication, future treatment)
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
- Out-of-pocket expenses (rental car, transportation to medical appointments)
Compensation for Pain and Suffering (Non-Economic Damages)
These compensate for losses that do not have a receipt:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring or disfigurement
For a general sense of what cases like yours may be worth, see our breakdown of average car accident settlement amounts.
The Lasting Emotional and Psychological Impact
The aftermath of a car accident extends far beyond physical injuries and vehicle repairs. Many victims grapple with significant emotional and psychological effects, such as anxiety when driving, recurring nightmares, or a persistent sense of stress that wasn’t there before. These impacts are not just ‘in your head’; they are a legitimate part of the harm you have suffered. This is why documenting your emotional state in a journal is just as crucial as tracking your physical symptoms. In Missouri, this emotional distress is a recognized component of your claim, contributing to the calculation of your non-economic damages. An experienced attorney understands how to demonstrate the full scope of this suffering to ensure you are compensated for all your losses, not just the ones with a price tag.
When Are Punitive Damages Awarded?
In rare cases involving extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct (such as drunk driving), Missouri courts may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the at-fault party and discourage similar behavior.
Understanding Common Causes and Prevention Strategies
While we often call them “accidents,” most car crashes are not random events. They are the predictable result of specific actions, conditions, and choices. Understanding the most common causes is the first step toward protecting yourself and your family on the road. When a crash does happen, knowing what led to it is also fundamental to building a strong personal injury claim. Proving that another driver was negligent often comes down to identifying exactly which unsafe behavior caused the collision, whether it was texting, speeding, or another reckless act.
Human Factors: The Primary Driver of Collisions
Research consistently shows that human error is the single largest contributor to traffic collisions, accounting for over 90% of all crashes. These are not unavoidable incidents; they are preventable events rooted in driver behavior. From momentary lapses in judgment to outright recklessness, the choices made behind the wheel have the most significant impact on road safety. Recognizing these common behaviors in other drivers—and being honest about our own habits—is crucial for avoiding dangerous situations and staying safe on Missouri roads.
Distracted and Impaired Driving
Distracted driving goes far beyond just texting. It includes anything that takes your attention away from the road, such as talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, eating, or dealing with passengers. These distractions turn a driver’s vehicle into a multi-ton weapon moving with an unguided trajectory. Similarly, impaired driving due to alcohol, illegal drugs, or even prescription medication dramatically slows reaction times and impairs judgment. These are not “accidents” but conscious choices that put everyone at risk. If you are ever injured by a driver you suspect was distracted or impaired, it is vital to tell the responding officer your suspicions so it can be noted in the official report.
Driver Overconfidence and Other Behaviors
Beyond distraction and impairment, a range of other dangerous behaviors contributes to crashes every day. Speeding, following too closely, making improper turns, and failing to yield the right-of-way are all common forms of aggressive or careless driving. Often, these actions stem from driver overconfidence or impatience. A driver who believes they are skilled enough to safely speed or weave through traffic is ignoring the physical limits of their vehicle and the unpredictability of other road users. These behaviors are clear examples of negligence, and when they cause an accident, the driver can and should be held accountable for the harm they cause.
Vehicle and Environmental Risk Factors
While driver behavior is the primary cause of most crashes, the condition of the vehicles and the surrounding environment also play a significant role. A poorly maintained car can fail at a critical moment, and certain road or weather conditions can make driving much more hazardous. Understanding these risks allows you to take proactive steps, like keeping your car in good working order and adjusting your driving style to match the conditions. These factors can also be important in a legal case, especially if a mechanical failure or a poorly designed road contributed to the accident.
Vehicle Maintenance and Type
Your car’s condition is a key part of the safety equation. Worn-out tires can’t grip the road properly, and failing brakes can make it impossible to stop in time. It’s essential to keep up with regular maintenance. Beyond maintenance, the type of vehicle you drive matters. Modern cars with features like electronic stability control and robust airbag systems offer significantly more protection in a crash than older models. Regardless of your car’s age, the single most effective safety device is the one that comes standard in every vehicle: the seatbelt. Failing to wear a seatbelt dramatically increases the risk of serious injury or death in a collision.
Defensive Driving to Protect Yourself
You cannot control what other drivers do, but you can control how you react to them. Defensive driving is a set of skills and habits that helps you anticipate and avoid hazards on the road. It’s about staying alert, maintaining a safe space around your vehicle, and being prepared for the unexpected. By adopting a defensive mindset, you can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in a collision, even when others are driving carelessly. These techniques are your best defense against the common errors and aggressive behaviors you’re likely to encounter.
Safe Following Distance and Intersection Habits
One of the cornerstones of defensive driving is maintaining a safe following distance. The “three-second rule” is a great guideline: watch the vehicle ahead of you pass a fixed object, like a sign, and ensure it takes you at least three full seconds to reach that same object. In bad weather or when driving a heavy vehicle, increase that time. Intersections are another major hotspot for accidents. When approaching an intersection, even with a green light, scan left and right for drivers who might run the red light. Never assume other drivers will follow the rules.
Parking Lot and Highway Safety Tips
Parking lots are a common site for low-speed collisions. To stay safe, drive slowly and be hyper-aware of pedestrians and cars backing out of spaces. Whenever possible, choose a parking spot you can pull through, so you can drive forward to exit instead of backing into traffic. On the highway, avoid lingering in other drivers’ blind spots. If you can’t see the driver’s face in their side mirror, they probably can’t see you. Always use your turn signal well in advance of changing lanes to give others ample warning of your intentions.
Systemic Approaches to Road Safety
While individual choices are critical, creating safer roads is a shared responsibility that extends beyond drivers. True road safety involves a comprehensive system that includes vehicle manufacturers, road engineers, and public policy. Improvements in vehicle design, such as automatic emergency braking and blind-spot detection, help compensate for human error. Better road design, including protected bike lanes and clearer signage, can guide drivers toward safer behaviors. Finally, the speed and quality of emergency response after a crash can make a life-or-death difference. Advocating for and supporting these systemic improvements helps create a safer environment for everyone.
Common Mistakes That Hurt Missouri Car Accident Claims
After handling hundreds of car accident cases in Southwest Missouri, attorney Chad Mann sees the same mistakes over and over. Avoid these:
- Waiting too long to see a doctor. Even a 48-hour gap gives the insurance company ammunition to argue your injuries are not accident-related.
- Posting about the accident on social media. Insurance adjusters check Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. A photo of you at a family event can be used to argue you are not as hurt as you claim.
- Accepting the first settlement offer. Early offers rarely cover the full cost of treatment, especially when injuries require ongoing care.
- Not filing Form 1140. Missing this 30-day deadline can affect your insurance coverage and create complications in your claim.
- Giving a recorded statement without legal advice. What feels like a routine conversation can turn into a tool the insurance company uses against you.
- Neglecting to document everything. Memories fade. Without photos, a journal, and organized records, your word against the insurance company is a losing position.
- Settling before understanding your full damages. Some injuries, like whiplash, can require months of treatment. Settling too early locks you out of recovering those future costs.
Handling Car Accidents with Special Circumstances
Not every accident is a straightforward two-car collision. Some situations create additional legal complexity:
- Truck accidents: Crashes involving commercial trucks bring federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and higher insurance limits into play. See our separate guide on what to do after a truck accident.
- Hit-and-run: Under Missouri law (RSMo 577.060), leaving the scene of an accident is a crime. If the other driver fled, file a police report immediately and file a claim under your UM coverage.
- Uninsured drivers: If the at-fault driver has no insurance, your UM/UIM policy becomes your primary source of recovery. Missouri requires this coverage on every auto liability policy.
- Government vehicles: Accidents involving city, county, or state vehicles have strict notice requirements. You may have as little as 90 days to file a claim.
- Rideshare accidents: Uber and Lyft accidents involve layered insurance policies that depend on whether the driver was on a trip, waiting for a ride request, or offline.
Dealing with a complicated car accident case? Schedule a free consultation with The Law Office of Chad G. Mann. We handle car accident cases across Springfield, Ozark, Nixa, Republic, and all of Southwest Missouri. Call (417) 842-8679.
Why a Local Springfield Attorney Makes a Difference
Car accident cases in Greene County and the surrounding area have their own patterns. Local courts, local insurance adjusters, and local medical providers all play a role in how your case moves forward. An attorney who works in Southwest Missouri every day understands these dynamics in a way that an out-of-town firm or a national legal referral service cannot match.
At The Law Office of Chad G. Mann, every client works directly with attorney Chad Mann from start to finish. There is no hand-off to paralegals or case managers. Before opening his own firm, Chad worked with major insurance carriers, giving him first-hand knowledge of how adjusters evaluate claims, set reserves, and make settlement decisions. That insider perspective benefits every client we represent.
The firm operates on a contingency fee basis at a 30% rate, which is lower than the 33-40% many other firms charge. You pay nothing upfront, and we cover all case costs until your case is resolved. If we do not recover compensation, you owe nothing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first thing I should do after a car accident?
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical help if anyone is hurt. Missouri law requires you to report accidents involving injury or property damage over $500 to the police.
Should I file an insurance claim if the accident was not my fault?
Yes. Notify your own insurance company about the accident, even if the other driver was entirely at fault. Your insurer needs to know about the incident. However, be cautious when speaking with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. You are not required to give them a recorded statement.
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Missouri?
Missouri gives you five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or property damage lawsuit. Wrongful death claims must be filed within three years. While these deadlines may seem far away, starting the process early protects your evidence and strengthens your claim.
What if the other driver does not have insurance?
Missouri requires every auto liability policy to include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. If the at-fault driver has no insurance, you can file a claim under your own UM policy. This coverage also applies in hit-and-run situations where the other driver cannot be identified.
How much is my car accident case worth?
Every case is different. The value depends on the severity of your injuries, your medical expenses, lost income, and the impact on your daily life. Minor fender-bender claims may settle for a few thousand dollars, while serious injury cases can result in six-figure or even seven-figure recoveries. The Law Office of Chad G. Mann secured a $12 million wrongful death verdict in 2024, the second-largest judgment in Missouri that year.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?
Not every accident requires an attorney. If your injuries are minor, treatment is complete, and the insurance company is offering a fair amount, you may be able to handle the claim yourself. But if you are unsure whether an offer is fair, a free consultation costs nothing and can give you clarity about your options.
Take the Next Step to Protect Your Rights
A car accident does not have to derail your life. By taking the right steps, from documenting the scene to getting medical care to understanding your legal options, you put yourself in the strongest position to recover what you are owed.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Springfield or Southwest Missouri, The Law Office of Chad G. Mann is here to help. Attorney Chad Mann has the experience, the insurance industry knowledge, and the track record to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Call (417) 842-8679 or visit our office in Springfield. There is no fee unless we win your case.
Key Takeaways
- Act methodically at the scene: Your first moves matter, so check for injuries and call 911, then thoroughly document everything with photos and exchange information. Never admit fault, as even a simple apology can be used by insurance companies to weaken your claim.
- Connect your injuries to the crash: Get a medical evaluation within 24 hours to officially link your injuries to the accident. Follow your doctor’s orders precisely and keep a detailed journal of your symptoms, as this creates the essential evidence needed to prove your pain and suffering.
- Protect your claim from the insurer: Understand that the other driver’s insurance adjuster is not on your side. Politely decline to give a recorded statement, reject any quick settlement offers, and document every conversation. Consulting an attorney before accepting a deal is the safest way to ensure you are treated fairly.
