A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. From physical pain to growing medical bills, emotional distress, and insurance headaches — it’s overwhelming. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a crash, knowing what steps to take can protect your health, your legal rights, and your financial future.
Firms like Patterson Legal Group help injury victims across Kansas get the compensation they deserve. In this guide, we’ll walk through exactly what to do after an accident and how a personal injury attorney can help.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Health and Safety
Your first step should always be safety. After a crash:
. Check for injuries on yourself and others
. Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible
. Call 911 for police and medical help
. Follow up with a doctor—even for minor symptoms
Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding may not be obvious right away. Medical documentation is also critical for any future legal claim.
Step 2: Document the Scene and Gather Evidence
Before you leave the scene, collect as much information as possible:
. Photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries
. Names and contact details of witnesses
. Insurance and license information from all drivers
. Police report or case number
This evidence will be essential in proving who was at fault and how the accident affected you.
Step 3: Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the crash. But be careful what you say — especially in early conversations.
Insurance adjusters may seem helpful, but they’re trained to minimize payouts. Do not admit fault, speculate, or downplay your injuries.
Before giving any recorded statements, it’s wise to consult an attorney like those at Patterson Legal Group to ensure your rights are protected.
Step 4: Understand Your Legal Rights
Under Kansas law, you may be entitled to compensation for:
. Medical expenses
. Lost wages
. Pain and suffering
. Property damage
. Permanent disability
. Emotional distress
But Kansas is a no-fault state, which means your own insurance (Personal Injury Protection, or PIP) pays for initial medical bills — regardless of who caused the crash. That doesn’t prevent you from suing the other driver if your injuries are serious enough.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help determine if your case meets the threshold to file a liability claim.
Step 5: Speak With a Local Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating Kansas personal injury law alone is risky. An attorney can:
. Investigate the accident thoroughly
. Handle communications with insurance companies
. Calculate the full value of your claim
. Negotiate for a fair settlement
. Represent you in court if needed
Choosing a local, experienced law firm like Patterson Legal Group gives you the support of a team that knows Kansas law, courts, and how to fight for clients effectively.
Visit pattersonlegalgroup.com to get a free consultation and learn about your legal options.
Common Injuries After a Car Accident
Every crash is different, but some injuries are more common than others:
🚗 Soft Tissue Injuries
Includes whiplash, strains, and sprains, usually caused by sudden jerking motions.
🧠 Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Even a mild concussion can lead to serious long-term effects if not treated promptly.
🦴 Broken Bones
Leg, rib, wrist, or collarbone fractures are common in high-impact collisions.
🩸 Internal Injuries
Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately visible.
🧍 Spinal Cord Injuries
Can result in paralysis or long-term nerve damage, especially in rollover or rear-end crashes.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Legal Action
Kansas has a statute of limitations — meaning you have a limited time to file a lawsuit. In most personal injury cases, this deadline is two years from the date of the accident.
Missing that window could mean giving up your right to compensation entirely.
Also, evidence fades over time. Witnesses forget, documents get lost, and insurance companies become harder to negotiate with. Contacting a lawyer early preserves your legal advantage.
What Does It Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
The best personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means:
. No upfront fees
. No hourly billing
. You only pay if you win
This arrangement ensures that your lawyer is motivated to fight for the maximum payout possible — because their payment depends on your success.
At Patterson Legal Group, initial consultations are free, and you won’t pay unless they recover money for you.
FAQs About Auto Injury Claims in Kansas
❓ Do I need a lawyer if the accident was minor?
Even “minor” injuries can become serious over time. It’s best to consult a lawyer to evaluate your situation.
❓ What if the other driver was uninsured?
Your uninsured motorist coverage can help. A lawyer will help you file a claim under your policy.
❓ Can I get compensated for pain and suffering?
Yes, if your injuries meet Kansas’ legal threshold, you may pursue non-economic damages like emotional trauma, stress, or chronic pain.
❓ What if I was partially at fault?
Kansas uses comparative fault. You can still recover damages if you’re less than 50% responsible, though your payout will be reduced proportionally.
Patterson Legal Group: Trusted Legal Help in Topeka and Beyond
With offices serving Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, Patterson Legal Group offers personalized, aggressive legal representation to injury victims in Topeka and surrounding areas.
They focus exclusively on personal injury law, including:
. Auto accidents
. Truck and motorcycle crashes
. Workplace injuries
. Slip and fall cases
. Wrongful death claims
Their team fights for justice while offering compassion and clarity through every step of your case. Visit Patterson Legal Group to learn more or schedule your free case review.
Final Thoughts
A car accident can leave you confused, hurt, and unsure where to turn. But you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. With the right legal guidance, you can focus on healing while your attorney focuses on getting you the compensation you deserve.
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a crash, don’t wait. Reach out to a dedicated team like Patterson Legal Group today — and take the first step toward justice and recovery.