Do I Need a Car Accident Lawyer for an Auto Insurance Claim?
After a car accident, you might be tempted to handle the insurance claim yourself to save money on attorney fees. The adjuster seems friendly, the process looks straightforward, and you just want to move on. At Bruntrager & Billings, P.C., our St. Louis car accident attorneys want you to know that before signing anything or accepting a settlement, having legal representation can make a significant difference in your recovery.
If you suffered injuries, even minor ones, consulting a St. Louis car accident lawyer is essential. Soft tissue injuries, concussions, and back problems may worsen over time. Settling too early can leave you without compensation for ongoing or future medical treatment.
Serious injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or surgeries require representation because of substantial medical bills, lost wages, and long-term impacts. Studies show accident victims represented by attorneys recover significantly more, sometimes three times more, than those handling claims alone, even after legal fees.
If fault is unclear or disputed, a lawyer is critical. Missouri’s pure comparative fault rule reduces compensation by your percentage of blame. Experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys investigate the accident, gather evidence, and counter insurance tactics aimed at reducing payouts.
Accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers, commercial vehicles, rideshare services, government vehicles, or multi-vehicle collisions add challenges. Navigating these without legal guidance can result in lower settlements or denied claims. A lawyer ensures all liable parties are identified and all insurance coverage options are explored.
Insurance companies often delay, deny, or undervalue claims. National auto insurance premiums rose an average of 7.5% in 2025, putting additional pressure on insurers to limit payouts. A St. Louis car accident lawyer ensures your claim is properly valued, evidence is documented, and negotiations are handled professionally.
Even in straightforward cases, legal representation improves outcomes. Attorneys understand how to properly value claims, what evidence strengthens your case, and how to negotiate effectively. Hiring a lawyer signals to insurers that you are serious about receiving fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage.
For minor fender-benders with clear liability and no injuries, you may handle the property damage claim yourself. Still, consulting a St. Louis auto accident attorney ensures you don’t miss potential compensation or make mistakes that could limit your recovery. Keep in mind, Missouri law generally requires filing a personal injury claim within five years.
Most personal injury attorneys, including Bruntrager & Billings, P.C., offer free consultations. During this meeting, a lawyer will review your case, explain your options, and provide an honest assessment of whether legal representation will benefit you.
If you have injuries, don’t gamble with your financial future. Insurance companies count on unrepresented victims accepting less than their claims are worth.
Contact Bruntrager & Billings, P.C. at 314-646-0066 or reach out online for a free consultation. Our experienced St. Louis car accident attorneys will review your case and help you understand whether legal representation could make a real difference in your settlement.
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