St. Louis car accident Lawyers

We have helped our clients in St. Louis and the surrounding areas win millions of dollars in automobile accident verdicts and settlements

Ortwerth Law has the experience needed to maximize your car accident settlement. Whether it is an insurance agency, an individual, or a company, our injury attorneys have filed lawsuits, gone to trial, and received car accident settlements for more than $2 million.

Jump to a specific car accident topic:

• Verdicts and claims we have won
• Car accidents in St. Louis, Missouri
• Common causes of car accidents in St. Louis
• Dealing with insurance agencies after a car accident
• How long can I wait to sue after a car accident?
• Medical expense compensation after a car accident
• Property damage compensation after a car accident
• Lost wage compensation after a car accident
• Average car accident compensation
• Speak with our car accident lawyers

An overview of car accidents in St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis, Missouri is one of the most bustling cities in the United States. With its growing population and its thriving industries, it is no surprise that the city is also home to a large number of motor vehicle accidents. According to Trailnet, St. Louis is one of the cities with the highest number of car accidents in the state. In 2023, there were over 149 deaths reported due to car accidents in St. Louis City and St. Louis County.

Car accident victims in Missouri face unique laws and procedures that impact their rights, making it crucial for them to understand the legal considerations involved in recovering compensation.

This is a concerning trend, as car accidents are one of the leading causes of injury and death in the United States. While some accidents are unavoidable, many can be prevented by taking simple precautions, such as wearing a seatbelt, following traffic laws, and avoiding distractions while driving.

If you are in a car accident, do not talk to the insurance company!

Let us deal with the car insurance agencies working against you

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle collision, you will eventually be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company. Do not talk to the insurance adjuster! Answer the telephone, say hello, politely decline to discuss the accident and advise the adjuster that you will be hiring an attorney. Do not be fooled; do not let your guard down; and do not allow yourself to believe that the insurance company cares about you.

The insurance adjuster is just doing his/her job and looking for information to use against you. If the adjuster offers you the opportunity to “settle now” it most certainly will not be a fair settlement for you. This tactic has been used by insurance companies for years to maximize their profits by paying victims less than they deserve.

We are premier St. Louis car accident lawyers and we will thoroughly investigate your case, speak to witnesses, contact police, work with your doctors and do whatever it takes to maximize your recovery. This is our commitment to you.

We negotiate with insurance companies and push back when they try minimize their payout

Without a car accident attorney, the insurance company isn’t going to pay you the amount you deserve. The insurance company’s main goal is to maximize profits. The adjuster’s goal is to pay you as little money as possible. Even if you do receive an offer, it may not even cover your medical expenses. And the offer certainly won’t be enough to fairly compensate for your pain and suffering. Why let that happen to you?

The insurance company has experienced lawyers working on its side. Shouldn’t you have an experienced lawyer work for you? It just makes sense because you deserve full and fair compensation for your injuries, medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses and economic damages. Obtaining legal representation ensures you have skilled attorneys advocating for you, helping you receive appropriate medical treatment and the maximum compensation possible.

We have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies, whose primary goal is often to minimize payouts. Our attorneys negotiate aggressively on your behalf, ensuring that you are not shortchanged and that your rights are fully protected.

Auto insurance companies we have successfully brought claims against include:

AAA, Allied, Allstate, American Family, Auto-Owners, Chubb, Country Companies, Farmers, Federal, Founders, GEICO, Great Western, Hartford, Liberty Mutual, Old Dominion, Progressive, Safeco, Sentry, Shelter, State Farm, Travelers, USAA, Vanliner, Viking, Zurich. Our legal services cover a wide range of needs, helping clients navigate insurance claims and ensuring they receive fair compensation.

How Ortwerth Law works to get you maximum compensation

At Ortwerth Law, our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys is committed to ensuring that our clients receive the maximum compensation possible after a car accident. Here’s how we achieve this:

We begin by conducting a comprehensive evaluation of your case, examining all aspects of the accident and the resulting injuries. This includes reviewing medical reports, police reports, and any other relevant documentation to understand the full extent of your damages.

We have the resources and experience required to build your case

Our attorneys meticulously gather evidence to support your claim. This involves collecting witness statements, obtaining traffic camera footage, and collaborating with accident reconstruction experts to build a solid case that demonstrates the other party’s negligence.

We work with a network of experts, including medical professionals and financial analysts, to accurately assess the impact of your injuries and calculate the compensation you deserve. This includes immediate medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term costs such as ongoing treatment and reduced earning capacity. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, our attorneys are prepared to take your case to court. We provide strong legal representation, presenting your case effectively to ensure the best possible outcome.

We assess the damages to determine what you are owed after a car accident

We ensure that all potential damages are considered, including non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life, to maximize your compensation. Throughout the process, we maintain open communication with our clients, ensuring they are informed and involved in every step of their case. Our goal is to alleviate the stress of the legal process so you can focus on your recovery.

By employing these strategies, our personal injury attorneys strive to secure the full and fair compensation you deserve, helping you recover financially and move forward after a car accident.

Reach a Settlement or File a Car Accident Lawsuit in St. Louis

At Ortwerth Law, our attorneys have extensive experience in both reaching settlements and filing car accident lawsuits, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible outcome for their cases. We understand that each car accident case is unique, and our approach is tailored to meet the specific needs and circumstances of every client.

Reaching a car accident settlement

Our legal team is adept at negotiating with insurance companies to reach fair settlements that adequately compensate our clients for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. We leverage our in-depth knowledge of personal injury law to advocate effectively on behalf of our clients, ensuring their rights are protected throughout the settlement process. By thoroughly evaluating the details of each case and presenting compelling evidence, we can often secure favorable settlements without the need for prolonged litigation.

Filing a lawsuit when you are unsatisfied with your compensation

When a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are fully prepared to take the case to court. We have a proven track record of successfully filing car accident lawsuits and achieving significant verdicts for our clients. Our experienced litigators are skilled in presenting a strong case before a judge or jury, using evidence such as expert testimonies, accident reconstruction, and detailed documentation of damages. We are committed to pursuing maximum compensation for our clients, whether through settlement or litigation.

By choosing Ortwerth Law, you are selecting a legal team that is dedicated to providing comprehensive representation, from initial consultation to final resolution. Whether negotiating a settlement or pursuing a lawsuit, our attorneys are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your car accident claim.

Understanding car accident lawsuits

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being a car accident victim, having an understanding of your rights to things like car accident compensation and insurance settlements can have a sustantial impact on your financial future. Knowing your rights can help you make informed decisions and avoid mistakes that could harm your case. In this section, we will discuss the importance of knowing your legal rights after a car accident and how an experienced car accident attorney can help.

Know Your Legal Rights After a Car Accident

After a car accident, it is essential to know your legal rights and how to protect them. This includes understanding the legal process, knowing how to deal with insurance companies, and being aware of the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit. An experienced car accident attorney can help car accident victims understand their rights and ensure they receive fair compensation for their injuries. Some of the key rights that car accident victims should be aware of include the right to seek medical attention, the right to file a car accident claim, and the right to legal representation.

How to Find the Best Saint Louis Car Accident Attorney

Having experienced attorneys might seem obvious, but how can you tell if a personal injury lawyer can get you the results you need? We are a small law firm by design. We want our clients to feel like they are getting the most attention possible. When you are injured in a car crash, managing partner Craig Ortwerth will personally meet with you and be available at all times to discuss your case.

We have an extremely skilled team of investigators who can research your case, the scene, and all of the small but important details that are required to build a strong case. On top of our client-first approach and years of experience specializing in car and truck accident cases, we also have something else to prove we are worthy: our results.

A skilled personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference. Experienced personal injury attorneys have the knowledge and expertise to handle the complexities of your case, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

One of the primary benefits of hiring Ortwerth Law as your personal injury lawyer is our ability to navigate the legal process on your behalf. From filing the necessary paperwork to representing you in court, we handle all the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. They are well-versed in personal injury law and can provide valuable guidance on the best course of action for your specific situation.

In addition to handling negotiations and legal proceedings, our attorneys can help you understand the full extent of your damages. This includes not only immediate medical expenses and lost wages but also long-term costs such as ongoing medical treatment and diminished earning capacity. By having a comprehensive understanding of your damages, we can pursue the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

How much have your St. Louis car accident lawyers recovered for victims?

Ortwerth Law is a St. Louis personal injury firm with extensive experience in handling car accident lawsuits.

We have handled cases that range from filing a lawsuit against insurance agencies due to unfair compensation to circumstances that resulted in major settlements of $1 million and even $2.2 million. Our expertise extends to various personal injury lawsuits, including those involving car accidents, commercial vehicle accidents, and drunk driving incidents.

You can see some of our featured stories on our verdicts page for more information on our car accident settlements.

• Orthwerth Law wins $2.2 million settlement in drunk driving case
• Orthwerth Law wins $2.1 million car accident settlement in a lawsuit against the City of St. Louis and other defendants
• Orthwerth Law wins $1 million rear-end accident settlement involving a commercial vehicle accident
• Orthwerth Law wins $1.5 million settlement from commercial truck driver and employer

How much compensation should I receive?

Types of Car Accident Compensation You Can Receive

Making sure you are compensated properly after an automobile accident is paramount. Our Missouri car crash lawyers will ensure every avenue is explored so you get the maximum compensation possible. Whether it is suing the driver of the vehicle or going up against your insurance or the at-fault driver’s insurance provider, Ortwerth Law has the experience and resources to get you the compensation you deserve.

Missouri is an at-fault state which means the guilty party may be required to cover the following car accident expenses:

Compensation for medical expenses after a car accident

One of the most important matters involved in car accident compensation is the amount you will receive for medical expenses. After an automobile accident, it is very common for one or both parties to have medical bills due to injuries sustained during the event. Compensation for medical expenses after a car accident may include:

• Costs for surgeries
• Medication/prescriptions
• Rehab or physical therapy
• And other general expenses from hospital bills and doctor visits

Injured victims often face significant financial burdens due to these medical expenses, making it crucial for them to seek compensation through personal injury claims.

An unfortunate (and universally known) truth in the United States is that one of the most expensive experiences one can endure is a trip to the hospital after sustaining an injury. When you are injured in a car accident, getting compensated for your injuries can have a substantial impact on the rest of your life.

Because of this, our car accident attorneys always stress the importance of keeping track of all your medical bills and treatment costs, as they will be necessary to prove the extent of your injuries and to calculate the amount of compensation you are owed.

Compensation for vehicle (and other property) damage after a car accident

In addition to medical expenses, one of the other well-known topics discussed by car accident lawyers when discussing the amount of compensation you will receive has to do with property damage caused by someone else’s negligence. The most important aspect is, obviously, regarding compensation for damages to your vehicle.

Property damage compensation after a car accident is not limited strictly to your vehicle. If, for instance, a laptop or phone was in your car during the automobile accident, and it sustained damage, you also may be able to receive compensation for those damages as well. Our personal injury lawyers will make sure to gather evidence of the property damage, such as photos and receipts, to support your claim for compensation.

Compensation for lost wages after a car accident

In addition to medical expenses and property damage, you may also be eligible to receive compensation for lost wages after your automobile accident. If you have sustained injuries that force you to miss work, or even limit the type of work you are able to do, you may be able to receive compensation for the wages you have lost due to the car accident.

A serious injury can have a profound impact on your life, affecting your ability to work and maintain your standard of living. This compensation may include any income you have lost while you were unable to work, as well as any future earnings you may miss out on due to ongoing medical treatment or disability.

The St. Louis car accident lawyers at Ortwerth Law will be able to make sure you have the proper documentation of your lost wages, such as pay stubs and tax returns, to support your claim for additional car accident compensation.

Other things that may affect the amount you receive for your car accident compensation:

• The type of car, truck or SUV you drive and the severity of the damages it sustained
• You must have car insurance to receive compensation
• The cost of medical bills or expenses accrued as a direct result of injuries sustained due to the car accident
• If the driver was under the influence, you may have grounds for an additional lawsuit or claims

Determining fault in St. Louis car accident cases

When it comes to car accident lawsuits in Missouri, fault and liability are established by proving that the other party was negligent. To establish negligence, you must demonstrate that the other driver breached their duty of care, which caused the car accident and resulted in damages. A personal injury attorney can help you collect evidence and present your claim in a way that gives you the best odds of success. Insurance companies may try to shift the blame or downplay the severity of the accident, but a skilled personal injury lawyer can help you build a strong case and pursue full and fair compensation for your losses.

How fault and liability are established in car accident cases in Missouri.

Determining fault and liability in car accident cases is a critical step in securing compensation for your injuries and losses. In Missouri, establishing fault involves proving that the other driver was negligent and that their negligence directly caused the accident. This process requires a thorough investigation and the collection of compelling evidence.

A personal injury attorney can play a crucial role in this process. They will gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to build a strong case. Additionally, they may work with accident reconstruction experts to provide a detailed analysis of how the accident occurred and who was at fault.

Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame or minimize the severity of the accident to reduce their liability. A skilled personal injury lawyer can counter these tactics by presenting a well-documented case that clearly demonstrates the other party’s negligence. They will also handle all communications with the insurance companies, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you are not pressured into accepting an unfair settlement.

Proving fault and liability is not just about showing that the other driver was at fault; it also involves demonstrating the extent of your damages. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Your attorney will help you document these losses and present them effectively to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.

By working with a personal injury attorney, you can navigate the complexities of determining fault and liability with confidence, knowing that you have an experienced advocate on your side.

Get Help From Our Car Accident Lawyers in St. Louis

Our car crash attorneys have seen it all. Over the years, we have been asked every question imaginable. If you are here, it is likely you have some questions of your own. Below are some of the most frequently asked car accident questions we receive from our clients who have been involved in a car wreck.

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not have to pay any upfront fees, and we only get paid if we win your case, typically taking a percentage from the settlement.

How long can I wait to file a car accident lawsuit in Missouri?

In Missouri, you are legally allowed to file an car accident within 5 (five) years of the date of the accident. In other words, the statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits in Missouri is 5 years.

Having said that, we strongly recommend speaking with a local injury attorney as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the hazier the details surrounding the car crash become for you, the witnesses, and the police statements.

How do I file a car accident police report in St. Louis, Missouri?

The process for filing a police report after an auto accident may vary slightly depending on the city or county, but there are certain steps that are consistent throughout the State of Missouri.

In short, the process of filing a police report in Missouri is:

1. Report your car accident claim to the local police department (In other words, call the police)
2. If uninjured and out of harm’s way, document the scene with photos and notes
3. Contact your car insurance provider
4. Fill out Motor Vehicle Accident Report Form 1140

Once these steps have been completed, you can contact a local personal injury attorney for a free consultation and to discuss whether you should file a lawsuit.

We help the people of St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and the surrounding Missouri Areas get the compensation they deserve

What is the average car accident settlement in Missouri?

What will I receive for my car accident settlement? This is one of the questions we are most frequently asked. The average car accident settlement varies state-by-state and there are a wide range of factors that will determine exactly how much financial compensation you will receive.

Because every accident is different, there is no definitive answer we can give, however, you can expect your car accident settlement to be between $3,000 – $15,000+ if the only damages sustained are to your vehicle.

If you are injured, you are likely entitled to additional compensation for things like medical bills and loss of income.

One of the most important things to consider when trying to estimate the amount of compensation you will receive is how hard your insurance agent is going to fight for you. In most cases, the insurance company representing the person responsible for the car accident will do everything in their power to minimize the amount of compensation they have to pay.

Because of this, it is vital that you have a car accident attorney who will have the resources and desire to get you the maximum amount of compensation.

What are the most common causes of car accidents in St. Louis, Missouri?

The most common causes of car accidents in St. Louis, Missouri are similar to those found in other cities across the country. Some of the most frequently cited causes include:

• Distracted driving
• Impaired driving
• Reckless driving
• Speeding
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Failing to yield the right of way

These causes often result in serious injuries, which can have a profound impact on victims’ lives, leading to significant medical expenses, emotional distress, and the need for legal assistance to obtain fair compensation.

In cases of impaired driving, our car accident attorneys have a great deal of experience filing lawsuits against drunk drivers in St. Louis. We not only work to get you the compensation you deserve, but we also make sure individuals, and any other parties responsible, are held accountable for their actions.

Each of these behaviors is dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. By understanding these causes, you can take steps to avoid them and keep yourself and others safe while on the road.

Here is a breakdown of average car accident settlements based on the severity of the accident

Am I required to file a police report after a car accident in St. Louis?

A common question we get asked by our clients is whether or not they are required to file a police report. In Missouri, you must file a car accident police report if:

• Either party has damages that exceed $500
• Your insurance company requires you to report the accident to the police
• Either party has been injured or killed as a result of the accident
• A parked/unattended vehicle was damaged and the owner is not present

How is fault determined in St. Louis?

Determining fault is a critical aspect of car accident cases. Fault can be determined by various factors, including police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence.

Fault is typically determined by analyzing the circumstances surrounding the car accident. This can include reviewing police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence such as skid marks and vehicle damage. An experienced car accident attorney can help car accident victims gather evidence and build a strong case to prove fault. In some cases, fault may be shared between multiple parties, which can affect the amount of compensation that car accident victims receive. It is essential to work with an experienced car accident attorney to ensure that fault is determined accurately and that car accident victims receive fair compensation for their injuries.

By understanding the basics of car accident cases, knowing your legal rights, and working with an experienced car accident attorney, car accident victims can ensure they receive fair compensation for their injuries and protect their rights throughout the legal process.

What are the most common injuries sustained in car accidents

Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-threatening catastrophic injuries. Here are some of the most common types of injuries sustained in car accidents:

1. Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Often resulting from rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked backward and then forward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments.
2. Head and Brain Injuries: These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). They occur when the head hits an object or is subjected to a sudden jolt.
3. Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: Car accidents can cause herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and even spinal cord damage, potentially leading to paralysis.
4. Fractures and Broken Bones: The impact of a collision can cause bones to break or fracture, commonly affecting the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone.
5. Internal Injuries: These can include damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, or lungs, often requiring immediate medical attention.
6. Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, metal, and other debris can cause cuts and lacerations, leading to significant blood loss if severe.
7. Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
8. Psychological Injuries: Beyond physical injuries, car accidents can also lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Recognizing the types of injuries that can occur in a car accident is crucial for seeking appropriate medical treatment and pursuing compensation through personal injury claims.

Types of Automobile Accident Cases We Frequently Handle in St. Louis and the Surrounding Areas

We have the expertise and resources to represent clients involved in any type of automobile accident, including injury cases, but some of the cases we frequently see include:

• Lawsuits against drunk drivers
• Lawsuits against out-of-state drivers
• Lawsuits caused by speeding or reckless driving
• Property damage caused by car accidents
• Compensation for minor car accident injuries
• Compensation for severe car accident injuries
• Car accidents resulting in death (wrongful death lawsuits)
• Car accidents involving semi-trucks and 18-wheelers
• Car accidents involving delivery drivers

How our St. Louis car accident lawyers will help you after an automobile accident

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 30,000 people die as a result of car crashes every year. More than 2 million motorists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians are injured on roads and highways every year. Most of these “accidents” really are not accidents because the word “accident” implies that the crash wasn’t anybody’s fault.

Along with car accident cases, we are also and handle any other automobile accident cases. We know the importance of acting quickly when our clients have been involved in a car accident. Our dedicated legal team provides the support and expertise needed to navigate these complex situations.

St. Louis car accident attorneys are here to help you through the process and get you the compensation you deserve. Some of the key benefits and services we provide include:

1. Dealing with Insurance Companies
2. Proving Fault and Liability
3. Evaluating Damages
4. Navigating the Legal Process
5. Protecting Your Rights

We have helped car crash victims in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and beyond

Not only have we worked with clients across the State of Missouri, but we also have worked with a great deal of clients in Southern Illinois. Ortwerth Law, LLC is licensed to practice in both Missouri and Illinois, and we have won our clients millions of dollars of compensation. We focus on helping injury victims navigate the complex process of filing claims and dealing with insurance companies for financial recovery.

Some of the areas we frequently provide our services include:

• St. Louis County
• St. Louis City County
• North St. Louis City
• South St. Louis
• Jefferson County, Missouri
• Kirkwood, Missouri
• St. Charles, Missouri
• Southern Illinois
• O’Fallon, Missouri
• O’Fallon, Illinois
• Oakville, Missouri
• Webster Groves, Missouri

Car accidents on Highway 40, 44, and Interstate 270

If you live in St. Louis, you know certain highways, interstates, and roads have a reputation of being poorly maintained or always under construction. Because of this, there are certain areas we accidents seem to be a daily occurrence.

Experiencing a serious accident on these roads can lead to significant challenges, including navigating personal injury claims and dealing with financial burdens.

We have helped clients who have been in car accidents driving on just about every highway, interstate, and road in Saint Louis City, Saint Louis County, and St. Charles County.

Some of the locations where our car and truck accident clients have been injured include:

• Accidents on Highway 40 and 44
• Accidents on Interstate 70 and 64
• Accidents on Interstate 270 and 170
• Accidents on I-55 and I-255
• Accidents on Gravois and Telegraph
• Accidents on Grand Blvd, Lindbergh Blvd, and New Halls Ferry Road

Talk with our car accident lawyers in Saint Louis, Missouri

Car accidents are a serious issue in St. Louis, Missouri, but, in some cases, they can be completely preventable. By taking steps to avoid car accidents and following safe driving practices, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the roads.

Whether you are a resident of St. Louis, Missouri or simply passing through, be sure to take the time to understand the risks and what you can do to reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident.

Finding a car accident attorney in St. Louis can be a daunting task, but it is crucial to ensure you get the compensation you deserve after a car accident. By considering the factors we’ve discussed and asking the right questions, you can find a reputable and experienced car accident attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and get the best possible outcome.

Remember, time is of the essence in car accident cases, so don’t hesitate to contact an attorney as soon as possible. With the right attorney on your side, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal details.

Additional car accident information and resources:

• Accidents from defective cars
• Car accidents involving public transportation
• Filing a car accident claim in Missouri
• Receiving compensation after a car accident
• Missouri car accident statistics
• How long does it take to receive car accident compensation?

Find Out What Your Car Accident Claim is Worth