Personal Injury

As winter approaches and the picturesque snowfall begins to blanket our cities, property owners take on an increased responsibility to ensure the safe passage of pedestrians. Snowy sidewalks, unfortunately, pose a significant risk for slip-and-fall accidents, leaving individuals with injuries that can range from minor to debilitating. Many who are injured will not get compensation for their injuries. Arm yourself with the knowledge to protect yourself and your loved ones. Understanding the Duty of Care Property owners have a legal obligation to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. This includes ensuring that sidewalks are clear of snow and ice, especially within a reasonable time after snowfall or freezing conditions. Failure to fulfill this duty of care can result in liability for slip-and-fall accidents. However, determining liability can be nuanced, and several factors are considered in assessing the property owner’s negligence: The severity of the weather conditions: Heavier snowfall or icy conditions may increase the property owner’s responsibility to clear the sidewalks promptly. There are special rules that apply to snow and ice. Check with one of our personal injury attorneys to understand your rights. The property’s location and visibility: Sidewalks in high-traffic areas or near public transit may warrant more immediate attention compared to less frequented areas. The property owner’s knowledge of the hazard: If the property owner was aware of the hazardous condition, such as through complaints or observations, their failure to act could strengthen the case for liability. Documenting Your Claim Following a slip-and-fall accident on a snowy sidewalk, it’s crucial to gather evidence to support your claim. Here are some essential steps to take: Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel severely injured, it’s important to seek medical evaluation to document the extent of your injuries. Take photographs: Capture pictures of the hazardous sidewalk condition, including the snow or ice accumulation, any warning signs, and surrounding landmarks. Gather witness statements: If anyone witnessed the accident, obtain their contact information and written statements detailing the incident. Report the incident: Notify the property owner or the responsible municipality of the fall, making a formal record of the accident. Seeking Legal Guidance Navigating the complexities of slip-and-fall claims can be challenging, especially in cases involving snowy sidewalks. Our Kansas City slip-and-fall attorneys can provide invaluable assistance: Evaluating your case: Our attorneys will thoroughly assess your case to determine the strength of your claim and identify the liable parties. Gathering evidence: We’ll work diligently to gather and preserve evidence, including medical records, photographs, witness statements, and weather reports. Negotiating with insurance companies: Our attorneys will represent your interests and negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for your injuries. Litigating your case: If negotiations fail, we’ll be prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights in a trial setting. Contact Our Kansas City Slip and Fall Accident Attorneys Today Snowy sidewalks pose a significant risk for pedestrians, and property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain safe conditions. If you’ve suffered a slip-and-fall accident on a snowy sidewalk, don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel from our experienced Kansas City slip-and-fall attorneys at Morefield Speicher Bachman. We’ll be your advocate, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Delivery truck accidents can cause severe injuries, leaving victims grappling with physical pain, emotional distress, and mounting medical bills. If you’ve sustained injuries in such an incident, understanding your rights and options concerning the coverage of medical treatment expenses is crucial. Determining Liability in Delivery Truck Accidents After a delivery truck accident, determining liability becomes pivotal. Identifying who caused the accident is crucial in understanding who should bear the costs of medical treatment. This might involve the driver, the trucking company, or other third parties involved in the logistics chain.  Seeking Immediate Medical Treatment Following a delivery truck accident, prioritize seeking immediate medical attention. Prompt medical treatment not only safeguards your health but also creates a documented record of your injuries and related medical expenses, forming essential evidence for any subsequent legal proceedings. Identifying Who Covers Your Medical Expenses The coverage of medical expenses following a delivery truck accident often depends on various factors. In many cases, the at-fault party’s insurance—usually the trucking company’s insurance—should cover the medical costs for the injured party. However, navigating insurance claims can be complex and may require legal assistance. Additionally, when dealing with delivery trucks, there may be several entities who have responsibility or share responsibility.  The Role of Legal Counsel Engage the services of a seasoned delivery truck accident attorney in situations where there are serious injuries. A skilled attorney with experience handling delivery truck accidents can assess the circumstances of the incident, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your medical treatment. Documenting and Filing Claims Proper documentation of medical treatment and related expenses is vital for filing claims. Keep records of all medical bills, doctor visits, prescriptions, therapy sessions, and any other healthcare-related expenses incurred due to injuries sustained in the accident. Pursuing Compensation for Medical Costs Your attorney will diligently pursue compensation for your medical expenses, your lost wages, and the pain and inconvenience you have endured. Compensation includes current medical bills as well as anticipated future medical costs associated with your injuries, lost wages, future lost wages, and pain and suffering. Their goal is to ensure that you receive the necessary financial support for comprehensive treatment and recovery. Secure Your Rights With Our Delivery Truck Accident Attorneys In the aftermath of a delivery truck accident, the question of who pays for your treatment can be daunting. Seeking legal counsel from experienced professionals like ours at Morefield Speicher Bachman is essential. Our expertise in personal injury law can help secure your rights and ensure that you receive the necessary medical care without bearing the financial burden alone. Call us at (913) 839-2808 for a free consultation.

Driving through the wide-open landscapes of Kansas at night can be a peaceful experience for many. However, when sharing the road with large trucks, that tranquility can quickly turn into a heightened risk. The roads at night are dangerous, protect yourself with insights from our experienced Kansas City truck accident attorneys. Factors Contributing to Nighttime Truck Accidents As the sun sets on the roads, visibility is a significant concern. Truck accidents during the late evening to early morning often involve reduced visibility for both truck drivers and other motorists. Factors such as setting or rising sun, limited street lighting, impaired vision, and the use of high beams contribute to a higher risk of accidents. Combine bad weather with Kansas being the 4th deadliest state for distracted driving, and you have a recipe for disaster. Fatigue and the Night Shift Truck drivers operate on tight schedules, leading to extended hours behind the wheel. The night shift poses additional challenges, as the body’s natural circadian rhythm makes it difficult to stay alert and focused during these hours. Fatigue becomes a significant factor in many Kansas truck accidents after dark. A knowledgeable Kansas City truck accident attorney can investigate whether driver fatigue or distraction played a role in the incident, potentially strengthening the case for compensation.  The Impact of Reduced Visibility Despite Americans doing only a quarter of their driving during nighttime, nearly half of all road accidents occur in the dark. During this time of the year, it is common for deer to unexpectedly cross the roadway. When a truck accident occurs after dark, the consequences can be severe. Reduced visibility leads to delayed reaction times, making it challenging for drivers to avoid collisions. The aftermath often involves devastating injuries and extensive property damage.  Legal Complexities: Why You Need a Kansas City Truck Accident Attorney Navigating the legal landscape after a nighttime truck accident can be daunting. Determining liability, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies require a deep understanding of both state and federal regulations. A Kansas City truck accident attorney possesses the expertise to handle these complexities, ensuring that victims receive fair and just compensation for their injuries and losses. The Role of a Kansas City Truck Accident Attorney in Recovery A dedicated Kansas City truck accident attorney can guide victims through the legal process, offering support and advocacy. From filing claims to representing clients in court, an experienced attorney plays a crucial role in helping individuals rebuild their lives after a nighttime truck accident. In the darkness of the night, the risks associated with Kansas truck accidents become more pronounced. If you or a loved one has been involved in a nighttime truck accident, contact Morefield Speicher Bachman’s attorneys today.

Autumn is a season filled with picturesque landscapes and vibrant foliage, but it also brings a unique set of challenges to the road. As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, the risk of auto accidents increases, thus making fall the most dangerous time of year to drive. You may be asking yourself, “Isn’t winter typically considered the most dangerous season for driving?” While that assumption is generally accurate up north, the US is a massive country, and on average fall is when road conditions are the worst. In this blog post, our car accident attorneys will explore the common causes of fall driving accidents and offer insights on how to stay safe on the road during this season. 1. Adverse Weather Conditions: Fall is notorious for unpredictable weather. Wet leaves, fog, and rain can reduce visibility and make road surfaces slippery. These conditions significantly contribute to accidents during this season. 2. Wildlife Activity: Deer, in particular, are more active during the fall as they search for food. The increased presence of wildlife on or near roads can lead to dangerous encounters and collisions. 3. Reduced Daylight Hours: With autumn comes shorter daylight hours. As a result, many drivers find themselves navigating in the dark, which can make it more challenging to spot hazards and respond to unexpected situations. 4. Holiday Traffic Congestion: The fall season brings a slew of holidays, often accompanied by an increase in travel and road congestion. More vehicles on the road mean a higher likelihood of accidents. 5. Tailgating: Following vehicles too closely is a common cause of accidents in any season, but it becomes especially risky in the fall. When wet leaves and slippery roads are added to the mix, the chances of rear-end collisions skyrocket. 6. Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a pervasive issue year-round, but it becomes even more dangerous during the fall. Taking your eyes off the road for even a second can result in accidents due to decreased visibility and slippery conditions. 7. Speeding: Driving at excessive speeds for the given conditions is a recipe for disaster during the fall. The need for longer stopping distances is compounded by wet leaves and slippery roads. 8. Driving in the Wrong Lane: Crossing the center line and veering into oncoming traffic is a common cause of head-on collisions. This dangerous maneuver is often the result of intoxication, distraction, or fatigue. 9. Reckless Driving: Illegal passing, running red lights, and other reckless driving behaviors become even more perilous in the fall. Inclement weather and reduced visibility can exacerbate the consequences of reckless actions. 10. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Failing to obey traffic signals is a common cause of T-bone collisions. Such incidents can occur due to factors like intoxication, distraction, or fatigue, and the results can be catastrophic. 11. Sudden Turns: Making abrupt turns at high speeds increases the risk of rollover accidents, which are particularly dangerous during the fall when road conditions are less predictable. 12. Sharp Curves: Driving too fast around sharp curves can increase the risk of losing control of your vehicle and potentially rolling over. It’s essential to exercise caution and reduce speed in these situations. 13. Uneven Roads: Navigating uneven road surfaces can increase the risk of rollovers and other accidents. In the fall, slippery or hidden hazards become more challenging to anticipate. Our Overland Park Car Accident Attorneys Can Help Fall driving accidents are more common than you might think, but with awareness and responsible driving, many of these accidents can be avoided. Being vigilant, adjusting your driving to match the conditions, and refraining from reckless behaviors are crucial steps to ensure a safe and accident-free journey during the autumn season. Contact our experienced Kansas City area car accident attorneys today for a free consultation.

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, and dealing with insurance companies often adds to the stress. It’s crucial to remember that insurance companies, even though they promise to be on your side, are still businesses primarily concerned with their own bottom line. In this article, we discuss common tactics insurance companies use to minimize your payout after a car accident in Kansas City. Common Practices The Rushed Settlement Offer: Insurance adjusters often move quickly to offer a settlement right after an accident. While this might seem helpful, these initial offers are typically much lower than what you may be entitled to. They may try to settle quickly to cut off their obligation to pay for future medical care or lost wages. It’s essential to consult with an experienced car accident attorney before accepting any offers. Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters may ask you for a recorded statement about the accident. Be cautious – they are skilled at asking leading questions that can later be used against you. It’s best to consult your attorney before providing any recorded statement. Your attorney can help you through this process. Downplaying Injuries: Insurance companies frequently downplay the severity of your injuries, claiming they are minor or pre-existing. They may even use surveillance to dispute your injury claims. Always seek medical attention after an accident, and make sure your injuries are properly documented. Insurance companies aren’t doctors.  Blame-Shifting: Some insurers may try to shift blame onto you, alleging you were partially or fully responsible for the accident. This tactic aims to reduce their liability and perhaps to scare you into a premature settlement. Work with an attorney to prove fault accurately. Delays and Stalling: Insurance companies may use tactics to delay the claims process, hoping you’ll become frustrated and accept a lower settlement to resolve the matter quickly. Your attorney can help keep the process moving and ensure you receive a fair settlement. Lowball Settlements: Offering low settlements is one of the most common tactics used to minimize payouts. Insurance companies may undervalue your claim, making it crucial to have legal representation to negotiate a fair settlement. They evaluate claims every day and they know that most accident victims don’t have the experience to properly value of claim. The Good Cop Approach: Some adjusters use a friendly, understanding demeanor to gain your trust. This “good cop” approach is a strategy to make you feel more comfortable and potentially accept a lower offer. Always remember that their primary goal is to save the company money. Doubting Your Medical Treatment: Insurers may question the necessity of your medical treatment or the legitimacy of your healthcare providers. It’s crucial to maintain a consistent medical record and consult with an attorney to ensure your treatment is properly documented. Underestimating Pain and Suffering: Pain and suffering can be challenging to quantify, and insurance companies often downplay these non-economic damages. Your attorney can help you calculate a fair value for your pain and suffering. Our Kansas City Area Car Accident Attorneys are Here to Help Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident in Kansas City can be a complicated and frustrating process. Understanding the common tactics they use to minimize payouts is the first step in protecting your rights. To ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, it’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who will fight for your best interests and help you navigate the complexities of your case. At Morefield Speicher Bachman, we are here to support you through this challenging time and advocate for your rights.

As a personal injury law firm, we are deeply concerned about the recent increase in pedestrian fatalities. According to a new study from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian deaths in the United States have reached a 40-year high. In 2022, an estimated 7,485 pedestrians were killed by drivers, an average of 20 deaths per day. This represents a 12% increase over the previous year. The study also found that the pedestrian fatality rate has been increasing for over a decade. In 2010, the pedestrian fatality rate was 1.61 per 100,000 people. By 2022, the rate had increased to 2.26 per 100,000 people. Why Are Pedestrian Fatalities Increasing? There are a number of factors that are contributing to the increase in pedestrian fatalities, including: Distracted driving: Distracted driving is a major factor in many pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving are more likely to miss pedestrians on the road. Speeding: Speeding is another major factor in pedestrian accidents. When drivers are speeding, they have less time to react to pedestrians on the road. Impaired driving: Impaired driving is also a major factor in pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to make mistakes and hit pedestrians. Pedestrian error: While pedestrian error is a factor in some pedestrian accidents, it is important to note that drivers have a responsibility to avoid hitting pedestrians, regardless of whether the pedestrian is at fault. What Can Be Done to Reduce Pedestrian Fatalities? There are a number of things that can be done to reduce pedestrian fatalities, including: Enacting stricter laws on distracted driving: States need to enact stricter laws on distracted driving and enforce those laws more vigorously. Reducing speed limits in areas where pedestrians are present: Reducing speed limits in areas where pedestrians are present can give drivers more time to react and avoid accidents. Cracking down on impaired driving: Law enforcement needs to crack down on impaired driving and hold drunk and drugged drivers accountable for their actions. Improving pedestrian infrastructure: Cities and towns need to improve pedestrian infrastructure, such as crosswalks and sidewalks, to make it safer for pedestrians to walk and bike. What to Do If You or Someone You Love Is Injured in a Pedestrian Accident If you or someone you love is injured in a car or pedestrian accident, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights and options. An experienced attorney can help you investigate the accident, identify the responsible parties, and pursue the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life. We Stand With Pedestrian Accident Victims Our attorneys have extensive experience representing victims of pedestrian accidents. We understand the unique challenges that pedestrian accident victims face, and we are committed to helping them obtain the compensation they need to recover and rebuild their lives. If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Morefield Speicher Bachman today for a free consultation. We can help you understand your legal rights and options, and we can develop a strategy to get you the compensation you deserve.