Let Us Help You Seek Accountability After A Serious Kansas City Auto Accident
Since the invention of the automobile, motor vehicle accidents have been among the leading causes of injury and death. Unfortunately, they are too often seen as routine and unavoidable. But the truth is that most crashes are preventable because they are caused by the poor choices of drivers.
If you or someone you love has been seriously hurt (or worse) due to another driver’s negligence, The McCallister Law Firm, P.C., is here to help you seek justice and compensation. Our Kansas City law firm has been exclusively focused on personal injury law since 1996, and our founding attorney brings more than three decades of experience to each case and client.
Knowledgeable And Expansive Legal Representation For Crash Victims
We offer comprehensive representation after nearly any type of motor vehicle accident, including:
- Car accidents: In the vast majority of cases, car crashes are caused by human error, which includes negligent driver behaviors like texting, driving drunk, speeding, tailgating and more.
- Crashes caused by auto defects: Accidents and injuries can sometimes be attributed to dangerous and defective automobiles. From faulty air bags to malfunctioning seat belts, defects in automobiles increase both the risk and the severity of crashes.
- Motorcyclist accidents and injuries: Motorcyclists often have a bad reputation as being irresponsible, but many motorcycle crashes are actually caused by other drivers, who either fail to notice bikers, fail to give them adequate room or both.
- Collisions between cars and pedestrians or bicyclists: Getting around on foot or on bicycle can be fun and healthy. Unfortunately, these modes of transport are often dangerous or even deadly because of negligent drivers. We represent both injured pedestrians and injured bicyclists as well as the families of those who have been killed in such accidents.
- Trucking accidents: Semi trucks are typically the largest and heaviest vehicles on the road. When a trucking accident occurs, it often results in catastrophic injuries or death for occupants of smaller vehicles. These cases can be complex, but we are more than ready to provide you with aggressive and skilled representation.
The McCallister Law Firm is not a personal injury “mill” that settles your case quickly and pushes you out the door. We believe in prioritizing quality over quantity, and we intentionally limit the number of cases we take so that we can give each client the attention and care they deserve. We always strive to maximize your compensation, which means we aren’t afraid to take your case to trial, if necessary.
Kansas City Traffic Laws And Regulations
Key regulations include:
- Speed limit: Limits in residential areas are around 25-30 mph, while highways may have limits ranging from 55 to 70 mph.
- Right-of-way rules: This dictates how drivers should navigate intersections, pedestrian crossings and merging lanes. For example, drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and allow emergency vehicles to pass. Also, specific rules govern behaviors such as U-turns, signaling before changing lanes, and stopping at stop signs and traffic lights.
- Penalties for various traffic violations: Violations can carry severe penalties, especially if they result in an accident or injury. Drivers found guilty of reckless driving or DUI can face license revocation, fines and jail time.
Understanding traffic city laws is essential for avoiding accidents and navigating legal issues if an accident occurs.
Understanding Comparative Fault In Missouri And Kansas
Comparative fault is a principle that takes effect when more than one party is responsible for an accident. In Missouri, the state follows a “pure comparative fault” rule, meaning that a person can recover compensation even if found to be 99% at fault.
However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for an accident, you can recover 70% of the total damages.
On the other hand, Kansas follows a “modified comparative fault” rule. Under this system, a party can only recover damages if they are found to be less than 50% at fault for the accident. If they are equally or more at fault than the other party, they are barred from recovering any compensation.
Insurance Considerations After An Accident
Following an accident, you must report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Insurance companies will:
- Investigate the accident
- Assess damages
- Determine fault before issuing compensation
Dealing with insurance adjusters can sometimes be complex, as they might try to minimize the payout. Knowing your rights and the terms of your policy can help you negotiate a fair settlement.
Additionally, understanding policy limits in motor vehicle accident cases is important. Every insurance policy has specific coverage limits, and if the damages exceed these limits, the at-fault driver might be personally liable for the excess amount.
Having underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage can help you recover compensation for medical bills, property damage and other losses, even if the at-fault driver is not adequately insured.
Talk To An Experienced Kansas City Attorney For Free
Our firm offers free initial consultations to all prospective clients. From our office in Kansas City, Missouri, we represent accident victims throughout the surrounding areas of Missouri and Kansas. To schedule your free consult, contact us online or call 816-492-2963.