St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers

Automotive Accidents

The road is a dangerous place with careless drivers everywhere. You never know when you or someone you love might become a victim to a careless driver. And when it happens, it can turn your life upside down with expensive medical bills, insurance claim issues and lost income from missed work.

If you or a loved one was injured in an auto accident, the St. Louis car crash attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel & Kruse are here to help. Call our office at 314-241-1919 today for a free case review.

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St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers

How can St. Louis car accident attorneys help after an accident?

There’s often a lot of confusion after a car accident. Insurance companies sometimes try to take advantage of this, because they know that the average person is just trying to heal up and move on with their lives. Insurance adjusters will often try to downplay the severity of your injuries, dispute what medical treatment you require, argue over how much time you should have been off work, and even try to tell you the accident was your fault.

Before you know it, the insurance company will try to settle your claim without even granting you time to evaluate all of your options. This intentional confusion and rapid processing of your claim is all done in an attempt to pay you less money than you deserve.

Having a St. Louis car accident lawyer on your side helps level the playing field. When you work with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer, you’ll have someone looking out for your best interests, helping you to get the medical attention and financial compensation that you need.

The last thing that you want after falling victim to car accidents is to deal with complicated insurance policies and laws, which is why the attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse are here to help.

Get help today from our St. Louis car accident attorneys

Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse is an award winning personal injury law firm that represents Missouri car accident claims. Our firm is known for its dedication to securing fair compensation for its clients, combining thorough legal knowledge with a commitment to personalized client service.

When you work with NGK Law, you get a team with two of the 2023 list of Best Lawyers as well as a Top 50 and Top 100 lawyer in the area of plaintiff’s personal injury by Super Lawyers Magazine.

With a 98% client success rate and more than $1 billion recovered for our clients, our team wins.

We handle all kinds of St. Louis car crash cases, including:

When we begin working with you, we’ll do all of the heavy lifting for you on your case, so you can focus on recovery and getting your life back on track. We will:

  • Speak with you to thoroughly understand your case
  • Review all of the physical evidence of the case, from police reports, to medical records, highway cams, dash cam footage and investigative documents
  • Speak with witnesses and first responders
  • Handle all conversations and negotiations with insurance companies
  • Keep an open and honest line of communication with you throughout the process

Call Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse at 314-241-1919 today to arrange a free consultation with our team.

Getting you fair compensation for your car accident injuries

Automotive accidents can be devastating. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, roughly 28% of all car crashes each year result in injury.

These crashes can result in serious injuries, including:

As we mentioned above, insurance adjusters get paid to deny or minimize claims from car accident victims. However, that doesn’t change the fact that you deserve compensation to pay for your medical expenses, time away from work and any non-economic damages you are owed.

In cases like these, not just any lawyer will do. It’s important to work with some of the best car accident lawyers in St. Louis.

Browse our recent case history, including:

What kind of compensation can I recover from my car accident claim?

Plaintiffs in Missouri can recover damages for both economic and non-economic damages.

  • Economic damages – These are losses that are easily assigned a dollar figure and make up your financial losses from a car accident.
    • Medical bills
    • Physical therapy
    • Modifications to your home and/or vehicle
    • Medical equipment such as wheelchairs
    • In-home nursing care
  • Non-economic damages – These are losses that are more subjective and difficult to quantify. We can think of these as the emotional consequences for the accident.
    • Pain and suffering
    • Emotional distress
    • Loss of consortium
    • Physical suffering
    • Mental anguish
    • Loss of companionship

Missouri is an “at-fault” state, which means that the person who is guilty for causing the car accident is responsible for covering the cost of the other party’s automotive repair, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and bodily injury.

Once one party is deemed responsible for the car accident, the other party may file a claim with their insurance provider, the other party’s insurance provider, or they may file a lawsuit to obtain compensation.

Compensation amounts vary, depending on the facts of the case and the severity of the crash. In Missouri, compensation amounts for accidents can range anywhere from $1,000 to over $1 million depending on the seriousness of the injuries sustained in the car accident.

The attorneys at NGK Law know what to look for when calculating damages, and you can be sure that we will include all possible losses in our request for damages. Don’t let an inexperienced attorney short-change your request for damages.

How do I know who was at fault in my car accident case?

When determining fault in car accident cases, insurance companies first conduct investigation. This process begins with the collection of evidence, including police reports, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, and any available surveillance footage. These pieces of evidence provide crucial insights into how and why the accident occurred.

Next, insurance adjusters assess the evidence in the context of Missouri’s traffic laws. They look for any violations or negligence, such as speeding, failure to yield or distracted driving. The adjusters also consider the statements provided by the drivers involved in the accident. This assessment helps them understand each party’s actions leading up to the crash and their potential contribution to the accident.

Every case is different, but we put together some guides discussing who is typically found at fault in the following types of cases:

Can I still obtain compensation if the other driver wasn’t insured?

If you’ve been involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver, you might be worried about your ability to receive compensation for your injuries and damages.

Even when the other driver is uninsured, you still have options for obtaining compensation:

  1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage – All drivers in Missouri are required to carry uninsured motorist coverage, with minimums of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This means that even if the other driver didn’t have insurance, if you do, you can recover damages from your insurance company.
  2. Collision Coverage – Your collision coverage may help pay for vehicle repairs or replacement, regardless of who is at fault in the accident.
  3. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – In some cases, your personal injury protection can help cover medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault.
  4. Legal Action Against the Uninsured Driver – In certain situations, it may be possible to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver to recover compensation. However, this option can be challenging and depends on the individual’s financial resources.

Navigating an accident claim involving an uninsured driver can be complex and overwhelming. Our skilled personal injury attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse have the experience and knowledge to advocate for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Call today for your free case evaluation – 314-241-1919.

Can I still obtain compensation if I was partially at fault for the car accident?

The answer is yes. Missouri is a comparative fault state, which means that when determining who was at fault in a case, it can be assigned among multiple parties out of a scale of 100%. This percentage is then used to determine how compensation is allocated.

For example, let’s say Driver A and Driver B get into a wreck. Driver A requests $100,000 in damages. In trial, the jury finds that Driver B was 75% at fault for the wreck, while Driver A was 25% responsible.

This means that Driver A’s request for damages will be reduced to 75% of their initial request to $75,000, while Driver B can now sue for damages as well. Driver B may awarded up to 25% of their approved damages.

How do you obtain compensation if you were injured in a car accident on the job?

If you were injured on the road while working, you might be able to get workers’ compensation through your employer.

This is a different process than filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit, and it can sometimes be lengthy, so it’s often best to get started sooner rather than later.

Employers have an obligation to provide injured employees with medical care and monetary compensation for an injury they sustained while at work. However, we’ve found that this system sometimes doesn’t work as smoothly as it should.

If you have been injured in automotive accident while at work and are thinking about filing a workers’ compensation claim, or if you have already filed your claim and are dealing with adjusters who are disputing or downplaying your claim, don’t hesitate to give the attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse a call.

We have extensive experience working within the Missouri workers’ compensation system and can help you obtain your compensation more quickly.

How NGK Law can help if a negligent driver was responsible for a loved one’s death

At Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse, we know that nothing can make up for the shock and grief of losing a loved one in an automotive accident.

Car crash fatalities are all too common, and unfortunately, they have become even more common in recent years. The NHTSA has tracked a spike in traffic fatalities since 2020, correlating with changing behaviors and commuting during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you lost a loved one to an automotive accident, you can recover damages against the negligent party by filing a wrongful death suit.

In the State of Missouri, a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed anytime within three years of the decedent’s death. There is no universal cap on the damages that a plaintiff can recover in a Missouri wrongful death suit, and in practice, these amounts will vary based on the facts of the car accident case.

When determining damages, Missouri courts will consider evidence such as:

  • Medical bills incurred due to the car accident
  • Funeral expenses
  • The value of wages the decedent would have earned if he or she had lived
  • Pain and suffering

If you have lost a loved one to an auto accident, the experienced St. Louis auto accident attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse can help you obtain justice and financial compensation.

The most common causes of St. Louis car accidents

Car wrecks can happen seemingly anywhere, for any type of reason. Car accidents in St. Louis are similar to the rest of the country, in that many involve:

  • Hit-and-run
  • Intersection crashes
  • Distracted driving
  • Drunk driving accidents (DUI)
  • Texting and driving
  • Uninsured motorists
  • Speeding
  • Reckless lane changes
  • Rollovers
  • Trucking accidents
  • Not leaving enough stopping distance (tailgating)
  • Poor weather

It doesn’t matter what might have contributed to your car crash. If you were injured and another driver was at fault, you are entitled to financial compensation.

If my injuries seem minor at first, should I wait to talk to a St. Louis car accident lawyer?

Motor vehicle accidents are unexpected and disorienting, leaving you with physical and emotional pain. If you’ve recently been in a car accident and are experiencing seemingly minor injuries, you might be wondering whether it’s worth contacting a lawyer.

It’s crucial not to delay seeking legal advice. Here’s why:

  1. Hidden Injuries – Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not manifest immediately. Symptoms can worsen over time, causing more damage than initially suspected.
  2. Accurate Documentation – Early documentation of your injuries and medical treatment is critical for building a strong case. Waiting too long could make it difficult to prove the accident caused your injuries.
  3. Statute of Limitations – Personal injury claims have a statute of limitations, meaning you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. Delaying legal action could result in losing your right to compensation.
  4. Protecting Your Rights – An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and protect your interests when dealing with insurance companies.

If you’ve been in a car accident and are unsure about your next steps, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your situation and guide you through the legal process with professionalism and compassion.

How do car accident claims work in Missouri?

The path of your claim can vary depending on the specifics of the case, but generally speaking, car accident claims in Missouri usually follow the six steps below.

1. Report the accident

Missouri law requires that any car accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500 be reported to the local police department or the Missouri State Highway Patrol. If you are involved in such an accident, it’s essential to report it as soon as possible. This documentation will serve as a critical piece of evidence when filing your claim.

2. Gather evidence

Collecting evidence at the scene of the accident is vital for building a strong case. This may include taking photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Additionally, gather contact information from witnesses and exchange insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.

3. Seek medical attention

Even if your injuries appear to be minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A medical professional will evaluate and document your injuries, providing essential evidence for your car accident injury claim. Furthermore, some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying medical care can exacerbate these conditions.

4. Notify your insurance company

Always notify your insurance company about car accidents as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require prompt reporting, and failure to do so can jeopardize your claim. When providing information to your insurer, stick to the facts and avoid making speculative statements or admitting fault.

5. File a claim

In Missouri, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy, or you can file a claim with your insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver is uninsured. Once your claim is filed, an insurance adjuster will be assigned to your case. They will investigate the accident, assess the damages, and determine the settlement amount.

It is essential to remember that insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and may try to minimize the value of your claim. Having a personal injury attorney by your side can help ensure that your rights and interests are protected during this process.

6. Negotiate settlement or go to court

Most car accident claims in Missouri are resolved through settlement negotiations. Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, if negotiations fail to yield a satisfactory outcome, your attorney may recommend taking your car accident case to court.

What can I do if I was too injured to stay behind and collect the other driver’s information?

If you were involved in a serious accident and needed an emergency response to deal with your car accident injuries, you likely didn’t have an opportunity to swap insurance information with the other driver. That’s not a problem.

The law enforcement officers that responded to the scene will have created a report with all of the drivers’ details, evidence collected and statements from witnesses. Here are a few steps to help you gather the evidence you need.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health and well-being should always be your top priority. If you were too injured to stay at the scene, ensure that you receive medical attention as soon as possible. This will not only help you get the care you need but also create a medical record that documents your injuries and links them to the accident.

Request a police report

If the police were called to the scene, they likely filed a report detailing the accident, including the other driver’s information. Request a copy of this report as soon as you are able. It will provide valuable information about the accident, the other driver, and any witnesses present at the scene.

Contact witnesses

If you are aware of any witnesses who were present at the scene, reach out to them as soon as possible. Witnesses can provide valuable information about the accident, such as details about the other driver and their vehicle. Their statements can help support your claim and may be essential in cases where the other driver’s information was not collected at the scene.

Consider additional resources

Depending on the circumstances, there may be additional resources available to help you identify the other driver. Surveillance cameras from nearby businesses or residences, traffic cameras, or even social media posts by witnesses may provide valuable information about the other driver and their vehicle.

Consult with a St. Louis car accident attorney

Navigating a car accident claim without the other driver’s information can be challenging. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you investigate the accident, identify the other driver, and gather crucial evidence to support your case. Additionally, they can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that your rights are protected.

What is the statue of limitations for filing a car accident claim?

The statute of limitations is the time limit when someone is eligible to file a lawsuit against someone else. This is set by state law, and it’s done to make sure that evidence is still available and witnesses are still able to reliably recall details.

In Missouri, a car accident victim has five years to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for a car accident injury, and as we mentioned above, surviving family members have three years to file a wrongful death suit.

It’s important to note that the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit is different from filing a car insurance claim. While the statute of limitations on a lawsuit stemming from a car accident is years, any insurance company will require you to make an insurance claim or give notice that a claim will soon be filed “within a reasonable amount of time,” which typically means a few days to a few weeks.

Contact the attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse for a free case review

Being in a car accident is a stressful experience, and it can easily become overwhelming when mixed with physical injuries, mental injuries, lost time at work and with family, and juggling medical bills.

With all of that going on, the last thing you need is to be spending time on the phone fighting with insurance companies.

At NGK Law, our number one priority is allowing you to get on with the rest of your life. We are personal injury lawyers who specialize in car accident cases. We aggressively fight to get you every penny that you deserve — promptly, and without delay. It means crafting a winning legal strategy for your case. It means easing the stress of the situation by handling all of the communications with your insurance company and the defendant’s legal team. It means responsive, 24/7 communication. We are available for you day and night, so you can focus on what matters most.

There are a number of car accident attorneys throughout St. Louis, MO who promise big results but fall short when it comes time to perform. When Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse, our track record speaks for itself: 98% client success, more than $1 billinon recovered for our clients, two Best Lawyers honorees and an attorney named one of top attorneys in Missouri.

Call us today for a free case evaluation – 314-241-1919. Let’s discuss your case and explore your options together.

Still have questions? Check out our St. Louis car accident FAQs below.

FAQs

  • What should I do immediately after a car accident?

    After a car accident, prioritize your safety and that of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, and call 911 to report the accident. Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor, and exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering witness statements. Finally, report the accident to your insurance company.

  • What if there is not much property damage to my car, do I still have a claim?

    Yes, your claim may be eligible. It’s never a good idea to shrug off an auto accident. Even if there is not much superficial damage, the crash might have damaged internal components on your car, which can be costly and time-consuming to repair.

  • Who is responsible for my medical bills after a car accident?

    Initially, you may have to cover your medical bills through your health insurance or out-of-pocket. However, if the other driver is at fault, you can seek compensation for your medical expenses through their insurance or by working with St. Louis car accident lawyers to file a personal injury claim.

  • Do I need a lawyer for my car accident claim?

    While it’s not legally required, hiring a car accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries and damages. An experienced St. Louis car accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your rights.

  • How long does a car accident claim take to resolve?

    The duration of a car accident claim can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the extent of your injuries, and whether a settlement is reached or the case goes to trial. Your attorney can provide an estimated timeline based on their experience with similar cases.

  • What should I avoid doing after a car accident?

    Avoid admitting fault, providing speculative statements, or signing any documents from insurance companies without consulting your attorney. Additionally, refrain from discussing your case on social media or with anyone other than your St. Louis car accident lawyers.

Free Case Evaluation

    Practice Areas

    CASE STUDIES & TESTIMONIALS

    $6,000,000.00: Tractor Trailer accident

    $6,000,000.00: Truck accident case in which a tractor trailer caused permanent injuries, including paralysis of one side of our client’s body.

    $2,650,000.00: Forklift accident

    $2,650,000.00: Forklift accident that resulted in the death of our client. Resolved the case against the manufacturer of the forklift and the maintenance company that performed maintenance on the forklift.

    $1,300,000.00: Dump Truck Accident

    Dump truck struck our client’s car, causing a back injury to our client that required surgery.

    $1,250,000.00: Bus Collision

    $1,250,000.00: Bus Collision: Obtained for a client injured when a bus collided with his vehicle.

    Matthew G.
    I only recommend NGK anytime
        

    Very responsive and they help you in any way they can. Micheal Kruz has handled many cases for me and he is very professional and will fight for you every time. I only recommend NGK anytime.
    Dianne C.
    Very professional and friendly!
        

    This group is great! Very professional and friendly! It was a pleasant experience dealing with these folks! Give them a call! If they can’t be of help, they know someone who can! 😊
    Larry S.
    Far exceeded my most optimistic expectations
        

    Efficient, effective, have to say they far exceeded my most optimistic expectations. You are doing yourself a disservice if you do not use there services!
    John P.
    Excellent law firm
        

    NGK is an excellent mass tort and personal injury law firm. Highly recommend.
    David F.
    Proficient
        

    Proficient and stands up to Big Insurance.
    Gladys R.
    Kindness, thoughtfulness and patience
        

    I really appreciated Dave’s kindness and thoughtfulness and especially his patience with me throughout my lawsuit.
    Lou P.
    Helped me through the process
        

    Initially, I was reluctant to bring a lawsuit. But Dave answered all of my questions and helped me through the process. I really appreciate all he did to get me what I deserved.