Car accidents are never fun. The car accident compensation process is often a complicated one. Besides, the last thing you want to do after a car accident is to fight a legal battle, especially if injuries are involved.
You may get the urge to rush through the car accident compensation process just to be done with it. This idea may sound like the most painless route, but you may end up forfeiting compensation of which you didn’t know you were entitled.
Thankfully, many attorneys offer a free consultation for these exact situations. Taking the proper steps and engaging in the right procedures will ensure you receive every bit of the compensation you deserve.
However, several factors affect the car accident compensation you end up receiving.
Missouri is a state that uses a pure comparative fault system to determine the amount of compensation each driver might receive.
Therefore, the insurance claims process determines a percentage-based fault for each person involved in an accident.
A judge or jury may have to determine fault at trial if the insurance companies can not settle the claim. Determining fault in a comparative fault state is complicated.
Unless a driver explicitly admits 100% fault for an accident, expect the process to take some time. Collect as much evidence and facts as you can. Make sure you have proper representation.
The less fault determined to be yours, the more you can claim in damages for compensation. However, even if you are 99% at fault for an accident, you can still claim 1% of your determining damages.
Because Missouri is an at-fault state, the driver responsible for the accident is required to pay for things like repairs, medical expenses, lost wages, and more.
While these things are all directly calculable costs, non-financially-related damages are not so easy to determine.
You can read our article on How to Calculate or Estimate Car Accident Compensation.
First and foremost, you have to remember that insurance companies want to save as much money on their end as possible. Whether you’re dealing with your insurance company or the other driver’s, always keep that in mind.
Legal representation can help you get the most out of your claim. Even with legal representation, issues can arise that make the situation more complicated.
In some cases, you may have to seek partial compensation from a third-party who is determined to be at fault. Employers of at-fault drivers, car manufacturers, other drivers, and more could complicate this process. Lawsuits may be necessary to get what you deserve.
Another problem may be un-or-underinsured claims.
In Missouri, all drivers are required to have at least $25,000 of liability insurance and $50,000 in per-incident insurance. However, this may not always be enough to cover your car accident compensation.
Even worse, the driver may not have any insurance despite Missouri’s requirements. In either of these cases, you must seek financial compensation directly from the driver in court. Otherwise, your only other option is to file a claim with your insurance company.
Related: How Long Does it Take to Receive a Payout After a Car Accident?
If you are the victim of a car accident in Missouri and want to receive the compensation you’re entitled to, contact Ortwerth Law today!
We are powerful St. Louis car wreck attorneys who handle a wide range of automobile collision cases. We are known as one of St. Louis’ top car accident law firms and have recovered millions for our clients.
Make the smart decision and contact Ortwerth Law to receive your free consultation!
Fill out the form below to schedule a free consultation with Craig
The Ortwerth Law Firm came to my rescue in my time of need. I would not have known how to proceed without their expert guidance. They were kind, caring, professional, and always available. I was fortunate to be able to work with them. Thank you.
My experience with Ortwerth Law was seamless. In my case, Craig had to take on a giant company, and handled everything professionally all the way to satisfactory closure. Craig was engaging, and faithful to keep me informed along the way. There is no one else I'd rather recommend.
I was in a car accident that was not my fault. Craig was absolutely amazing in handling my situation. He made the process painless and kept me in the loop for everything that was happening. I recommend Craig whole heartedly!!!!!
If you need legal representation, Ortwerth LLC is who I recommend. Communication, compassion and professionalism...
5 Stars Outstanding! I was always contacted and informed regarding my case. I did not have to go out of my way for anything. The process was very easy for me. Thank you
Craig was great and did a fantastic job for me. He is very professional and knew how to do his job. Craig is a very friendly, compassionate and understanding person. He answered all my questions and called to see how I was doing. I would recommend Craig to everyone. In my book he is an outstanding attorney.
Having Craig work on my case from beginning to end was the best decision I'd ever made! My case went on for 3 1/2 years and during that time i never had to worry about "bothering him or his staff with questions, or their patience in explaining what was going on or what I needed to do. They kept me and everyone involved informed and things went along smoothly! I hope to never have a case like this again, but if I do, there is absolutely NO doubt in my mind as to where I'd go and who I'd have to handle my case!! I highly recommend anyone to at least sit down for a consult. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!! Great Job Craig (& Marcie!!)
Craig was AWESOME to work with!! If I had a question he had no problem taking my call or returning a call if he was busy. I literally did nothing except sign papers. He did everything for me and made the process of my workmans composition settlement stress free!!! Give Craig a call, I believe he will make you a very happy client like me!!
Brian McChesney is the BEST divorce lawyer I have ever experienced or come across. He goes out of his way to help, and has the best suggestive advice. I appreciate his integrity, valor, and honesty. I cant even begin to express my gratitude and thankfulness! Wonderful guy!-Laura
I grew up playing sports with Craig since grade school. Dedication, determination, and commitment lead to his success as an athlete and now leads him to be successful in law. When I was in a accident several years ago I called to ask for his help. He took care of all the legal tasks while I concentrated on physical therapy. I have recommended several of my friends and family to Craig and he has given them the same commitment and assistance. I endorse Craig and his firm for anyone needing legal service.
I’m so grateful that Craig Ortwerth and his office took on my car accident case. Craig was so easy to work with and he quickly replied back to any questions or concerns I had and explained every step to me. I felt such relief knowing I was in good hands and I didn’t have to worry about dealing with the insurance company so I could focus on healing from my accident.
Brian is an outstanding attorney! I had a pretty complicated divorce and it was not an easy time for me. Brian was thoughtful and empathetic to my situation. He wasn’t some cold attorney sitting across from me nodding his head. He was very responsive to any and all concerns I had, and never made me feel like a bother. He knows his profession and does it well. His prices are more than fair.
As the Office Manager at Healthcare Complete, I would highly recommend the legal services from Brian McChesney and Craig Ortwerth. We have routinely referred our personal injury patients in need of legal advice/representation to their firm, and our patients have ALWAYS been well represented and satisfied. On a personal level, I have been represented by their firm for a personal injury case and have been equally satisfied. I have referred family and friends to the firm for similar situations. Our office, Doctor and Staff hold the firm in high regard. Thanks for all you've done for us through the years!
This was the first time I have ever needed a lawyer. And Craig Ortwerth was refered by a friend he made this process easier than I could have ever imagined. All I had to do was sign a few papers and everything else he took care of. I'm so happy with the outcome and working with Craig was great.
Hands down this is the best firm in St.Louis! I have had the BEST experience at McChesney & Orthworth. I have worked with Brian who from day one of me walking into the office has provided the most humble counsel.Very professional. When stepping in this office I felt like they truly wanted to help me get the best care. I can't say enough about his firm. Truly amazing!! I would recommend this firm to others in a heartbeat! To all of you at McChesney & Orthworth law group, a sincere thank you!! Many Thanks! Brooke Hinkle
I had Craig ortwerth represent me for a workmans Comp case and I will say he did an amazing job was very easy to keep in contact with and he handled everything in the best way possible I am extremely happy with the settlement he got me I fully endorse his law firm nothing remotely negative to say
I have worked with Craig Ortwerth on a few different occasions. Each time I was very pleased with the out come. Everyone from the staff to the lawyers are nice, respectful and give excellent customer service.
Brain McChesney has represented and guided us through several legal matters over the past 15 - 20 years. We have found him to be knowledgeable, responsive, aggressive, reasonable, and trustworthy. We would not turn to anyone else in the future. I highly recommend him.
Brian McChesney saved my life and the lives of my four children. Exceptional person, exceptional attorney.
Brian works like it is own family and Craig never let me down
