Is it Worth Hiring an Attorney After an Injury?

If you’ve been injured due to someone's negligence, you should consider hiring an attorney as soon as possible. A personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal system and fight on your behalf for the compensation you need.

At Denning Law Firm, LLC, we've seen firsthand the devastating impact injuries can have on your life after an accident. Led by an experienced father-daughter team, our firm provides compassionate representation for personal injury victims in Missouri, including Kansas City, Overland Park, Olathe, Shawnee, Leawood, and Lenexa, as well as in Kansas City, Kansas.  

In this blog, we outline the benefits of hiring an attorney after you experience and injury and the laws you will need to follow to ensure your claim is filed on time in Kansas and Missouri.

Why You Should Hire an Attorney After an Injury 

Often, injured parties hesitate to contact an attorney after being involved in an accident. Many think the insurance company will handle their claim fairly or assume their case is too straightforward to require legal assistance. However, these assumptions are rarely true and can significantly impact the results of your case. Some of the primary reasons you should hire an attorney after an injury include: 

• Handle the legal process and insurance companies: Insurance companies are often incentivized to minimize payouts. Without proper legal guidance, it’s easy to underestimate the actual value of your claim or fall prey to tactics designed to diminish it. An experienced attorney knows how to negotiate with insurance companies and can advocate for your best interests on your behalf.

• Accurate case evaluations: Attorneys know how to properly value your injury claim by factoring in medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and any future impact on your well-being or daily life. An attorney will do the heavy lifting so you can focus on your recovery. 

• Building a strong case: Documenting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and negotiating with insurance companies are critical parts of building a solid case. An experienced attorney can gather the necessary details to build a compelling argument on your behalf. You can also benefit from their extensive legal background and determination to hold negligent parties accountable. 

• Reduce stress: Dealing with medical treatments, insurance adjusters, and potential lawsuits can pile on stress for injury victims. A personal injury attorney will serve as an advocate and fight for fair compensation while you focus on your health. 

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident due to someone else's negligence, consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Denning Law Firm, LLC, we are committed to standing up for our clients' rights and advocating for the compensation they need.

How an Attorney Can Help Maximize Compensation for Your Injury

Whether your injury occurred in Missouri or Kansas, hiring an attorney is a key step in seeking justice and securing compensation. An attorney understands state laws, can help you meet filing deadlines, and can employ tactics to counter undervalued insurance company offers.

At Denning Law Firm, LLC, we value transparency and keep you informed at every stage. We fight for your interests, even if that means going to trial. If you're a personal injury victim in Kansas or Missouri, we’re just one call away. 

Missouri Laws Governing Personal Injury Cases 

To deal with an injury claim in Missouri, you will need to clearly understand the state laws that could impact your case. Some of the primary laws and regulations you should keep in mind include:

• Comparative fault: Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule. This means you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For instance, if you were deemed 20% at fault and awarded $100,000 in damages, you’d receive $80,000. 

• Statute of limitations: Missouri provides injury victims a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit. The statute of limitations is five years from the date of the accident in most personal injury cases. Failing to file within this period could potentially bar you from recovering compensation. 

• Caps on damages: While Missouri does not place caps on economic or non-economic damages for most personal injury cases, certain claims, such as medical malpractice, may have limitations.  

Kansas Laws Governing Personal Injury Cases 

If you are filing an injury claim in Kansas, there are several notable differences in the state's laws and regulations. The important factors you should be aware of include:

• Modified comparative negligence: Unlike Missouri, Kansas uses a modified comparative negligence rule with a 50% bar to recovery. If you are 50% or more at fault for an accident, you cannot recover damages. Additionally, any compensation will be reduced proportionally by your percentage of fault. 

• Statute of limitations: Under Kansas law, you only have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. You must act quickly after an injury to protect your rights. 

• Caps on damages: Unlike Missouri, Kansas does impose caps on certain types of damages. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, are typically capped at $350,000. However, there are no caps on economic damages like medical bills or lost wages. 

Personal Injury Attorneys Serving Missouri and Kansas

Being injured due to someone else's negligence or actions can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights and advocate for your best interests on your behalf.

At Denning Law Firm, LLC, our father-daughter team is committed to standing by injury victims at every step. We are prepared to take your case to court if necessary and are passionate about protecting your rights while amplifying your voice. We serve clients across Missouri, including Kansas City, Overland Park, Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, and Shawnee, as well as Kansas City, Kansas. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.