Springfield Auto Accident Attorneys

Helping Clients Get the Compensation They Deserve

The repercussions of a serious car accident can be overwhelming. At Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC, our Springfield auto accident lawyers work tirelessly to help victims obtain compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. While we treat every client with compassion and sensitivity, we are also always aggressively ready to protect his or her rights inside and outside the courtroom.

Need Legal Help After a Car Accident? Our experienced Springfield auto accident attorneys are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (417) 557-3407 for a free consultation.

Understanding the Impact of Car Accidents

Our roads and highways can be dangerous places. In 2011, one person was injured in a Missouri traffic crash every 10.3 minutes. In total, the state had 142,966 traffic crashes, which resulted in 786 fatalities and 51,060 personal injuries.

Careless drivers are often responsible for motor vehicle accidents.

Comprehensive Legal Support for Various Auto Accident Cases

At Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC, we handle a wide variety of automobile, pedestrian, motorcycle, and truck accident cases caused by negligent drivers, including:

• Rear-end collisions — So-called “fender-benders” are often caused by drivers who follow too closely or underestimate the time it takes to stop the vehicle.
• Head-on accidents — Crashes often occur when an impaired, distracted, or drowsy driver inadvertently strays into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
• Sideswipe wrecks — Sideswipe accidents occur when drivers merge or change lanes without making sure the path is clear.
• Side impact crashes — T-bone accidents frequently occur at intersections when drivers run a red light, drive through a stop sign or fail to yield.
• Distracted driving collisions — Using a cellphone to talk or text behind the wheel takes the driver’s attention from the road and can lead to a car crash or pedestrian accident.
• Drunk driving accidents — Alcohol and drug impairment can severely interfere with a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
• High-speed crashes — Racing, driving too fast for conditions, or exceeding the posted speed limit can cause a serious car, truck, or motorcycle accident.

What to Do After a Car Accident

Following an auto accident, it is important to remain calm and take care of your personal safety. That means waiting in a safe place for police to arrive and obtaining medical attention for any injuries. If you can do so, you should exchange information with the other driver(s) involved. Key information to obtain includes the name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver’s license number, and license plate number for the driver and the owner of each vehicle. Do not admit fault for the accident, even if you suspect you may have played a role.

As soon as possible, you should also document and photograph the accident scene. The documentation process, which may prove valuable in later proving a personal injury claim, includes:

• Filing a police report
• Collecting the names, phone numbers, and addresses of witnesses
• Taking pictures of the scene, the damage to the vehicle, and your injuries
• Writing down the location and circumstances of the crash, including the time of day, weather conditions, and potential causes

Navigating Insurance Claims 

Auto accident victims often face serious financial, physical, and emotional challenges. You need an experienced ally in your corner who understands the law and the insurance claims process.

You should always consult a personal injury attorney before speaking with an insurance adjuster or signing any type of release. An insurance adjuster is trained to minimize the number of payments to injured persons. If the insurance company knows that you do not have legal representation, it will often pressure you to settle your claim quickly for much less than it is worth. Our dedicated auto-accident lawyers can carefully analyze your claim and calculate your losses, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

There are many critical decisions that must be made following an automobile accident such as submitting medical bills to health insurers, obtaining payments under medical payment provisions of car insurance policies, and properly documenting your claim. The decisions you make can drastically affect the total amount of settlement you can recover from the car accident. Our personal injury attorneys can guide you through this process and help you make the decisions that will maximize your recovery.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Springfield

Car accidents happen for many reasons, but most are caused by driver negligence. Understanding these causes can help drivers stay safe and be aware of potential dangers.

• Distracted Driving – Using a phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or even talking to passengers can take a driver’s attention off the road.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving – Exceeding speed limits or weaving through traffic increases the risk of losing control and causing a crash.
• Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol and drugs slow reaction time and impair judgment, leading to dangerous and often deadly accidents.
• Failure to Yield the Right of Way – Ignoring traffic signals, stop signs, or pedestrian crossings can result in serious collisions.
• Poor Road Conditions and Weather – Rain, snow, ice, and even potholes make driving more hazardous. Drivers must adjust their speed and be extra cautious.
• Defective Vehicle Parts – Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and engine failures can lead to accidents. Regular vehicle maintenance is essential.

How Fault Is Determined in a Missouri Car Accident

Missouri follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning if you are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced based on your level of responsibility.

Key factors in determining fault include:

• Police Reports – Officers at the scene document details, issue citations, and provide an official accident report.
• Witness Statements – Eyewitnesses can help confirm how the accident occurred.
• Accident Reconstruction – Experts analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and traffic camera footage to determine what happened.

An experienced attorney can gather evidence to help prove fault and maximize your compensation.

What Compensation Can I Seek For My Auto Accident Injuries In Missouri?

In Missouri, if you've been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. These can include medical expenses, both current and future, related to the accident. This encompasses hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and any other necessary medical treatments. You can also seek compensation for lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working, as well as for loss of earning capacity if you're unable to return to your previous job.

Additionally, you may be eligible for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the other driver's behavior was particularly reckless or egregious.

At Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC, our Springfield auto accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you understand and pursue the full range of compensation available to you. Our lawyers have the experience and knowledge to navigate the complexities of Missouri's legal system, ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us as soon as you can to discuss your case and learn more about how we can assist you.

Maximize Your Compensation After a Car Accident

After a car accident, it's important to seek legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, damages, and losses. Our team of experienced auto accident lawyers in Springfield will work tirelessly to maximize your compensation and protect your rights.

Benefits of hiring our auto accident attorneys include:

• Thorough investigation of the accident to determine liability
• Negotiation with insurance companies for a fair settlement
• Representation in court if a lawsuit is necessary
• Guidance through the complex legal process
• Comfort in knowing that skilled people are handling your case

Don't delay in seeking legal help after a car accident. Contact our team at Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Car Accidents in Springfield

What should I do immediately after a car accident?

• First, check for injuries and call 911 if needed. Move to a safe location, exchange information with the other driver, take photos of the scene, and contact the police to file a report. It's also a good idea to speak with a lawyer before talking to insurance companies.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Missouri?

• Missouri law generally allows five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, it’s best to start the process as soon as possible to ensure that evidence is preserved.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

• Yes. Missouri follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your total compensation would be reduced by 20%.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

• If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage, which is required in Missouri. If you don’t have this coverage, other legal options may be available.

Should I talk to the insurance company after an accident?

• It’s best to consult with an attorney before speaking to the insurance company. Adjusters may try to minimize your claim or get you to settle for less than you deserve.

How is pain and suffering calculated in a car accident claim?

• Pain and suffering are non-economic damages that consider factors like emotional distress, long-term injuries, and impact on daily life. Lawyers often use multipliers or per diem methods to estimate these damages.

Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?

• Even in minor accidents, injuries and damages can add up. A lawyer can help you determine the true value of your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Contact Our Experienced Auto Accident Lawyers in Springfield 

If you have been seriously injured in a car crash in the Springfield area or anywhere in the state of Missouri, you need a skilled attorney to look out for your best interests. Relying on decades of experience, the injury lawyers of Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law, LLC work hard so you obtain full and fair compensation.

Don't Settle for Less – Protect Your Rights! If you've been injured in a car accident, we can help. Contact us now at (417) 557-3407 to discuss your case.