After a car accident, the path forward can feel overwhelming. You’re dealing with potential injuries, vehicle damage, and the constant stress of calls from insurance adjusters. While you might be tempted to handle the claim on your own, the reality is that the legal process is complex and the insurance company is not on your side. This is where an experienced personal injury lawyer becomes an invaluable partner, guiding you through every stage of your claim, from the initial investigation to a final settlement.
At Sticklen & Sticklen, we are dedicated to helping Missouri’s injured navigate this challenging time. We believe that your focus should be on your recovery, not on fighting with insurance companies. Our goal is to level the playing field and ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Taking Over the Investigation
One of the first and most critical things a personal injury attorney does is take control of the investigation. While the police report provides a good starting point, it’s often not the full picture. Your lawyer will immediately begin gathering evidence to build a strong case that proves the other driver’s negligence.
This includes securing key documents like police reports and medical records, but it goes much further. We can access and review dashcam footage, interview witnesses, and, if necessary, work with accident reconstruction specialists to recreate the scene. We also carefully document all of your damages, both economic and non-economic, including medical bills, lost wages, and the intangible but very real costs of pain and suffering. This thorough approach ensures that no detail is overlooked and that your claim is based on a solid foundation of facts.
Handling All Communication and Negotiations
Once the investigation is underway, you no longer have to deal with the insurance company directly. This is a significant relief for most of our clients. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and will often try to get you to say something that can be used against you.
Your legal team will handle all correspondence, phone calls, and negotiations on your behalf. We will present the evidence we’ve gathered and make a compelling case for a fair settlement. With our deep knowledge of Missouri law, including the state’s comparative negligence rules, we can effectively counter any attempt by the insurance company to shift blame onto you. For our clients in Joplin, Columbia, and throughout Central and Southwest Missouri, this means less stress and a higher likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Seeking a Full and Fair Settlement or Going to Trial
The vast majority of car accident cases are resolved through a settlement, avoiding the need for a trial. However, if the insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair amount, we are always prepared to take your case to court. As a law firm with a proven track record, we’ve recovered over $150 million in settlements and judgments for our clients, including multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for car and semi-truck accidents. Our preparedness to go to trial often gives us the leverage needed to secure a better settlement offer without ever stepping into a courtroom.
Whether through negotiation or litigation, our commitment remains the same: to fight for maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay us nothing upfront. We only get paid when we win your case.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Missouri, don’t try to take on the insurance company alone. Let the experienced team at Sticklen & Sticklen handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing. Contact our office today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you get the justice you deserve.