Being injured because of someone else’s negligence can turn your life upside down. On top of medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain, you may be left wondering: what happens next if I pursue a personal injury claim timeline missouri?

At Rogers Sevastianos & Bante LLP, we believe knowledge is power. Understanding the process helps take away some of the uncertainty and allows you to focus on healing while we focus on fighting for your rights. While every case is unique, here’s a step-by-step look at what you can expect during a personal injury case in Missouri.

Understanding the personal Injury claim timeline missouri is crucial for anyone pursuing this path, as it provides clarity on what to expect and when.

Step 1: The Initial Consultation

The process begins with a free consultation. This is your chance to meet with an attorney, explain what happened, and learn about your legal options. Bringing documents like accident reports, medical records, or photos can be helpful, but if you don’t have everything yet, that’s okay—we’ll help you track down the information we need.

Step 2: Investigation & Case Building

Once you hire an attorney, we begin gathering evidence. This can include:

• Collecting medical records and bills
  
• Interviewing witnesses
  
• Reviewing accident reports and photographs
  
• Consulting with medical or accident reconstruction experts
  

This stage lays the groundwork for proving liability and damages.

Step 3: Filing the Claim

Your attorney will typically start by filing a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. This includes a demand letter that outlines your injuries, expenses, and the compensation you are seeking.

Step 4: Settlement Negotiations

Most personal injury cases settle before they ever reach a courtroom. The insurance company may respond with an offer, and negotiations will go back and forth. Your attorney’s job is to protect you from lowball offers and fight for a settlement that fairly compensates you for your injuries and losses.

Step 5: Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, the next step is filing a lawsuit. This does not mean your case will automatically go to trial—it means the process moves into the court system, which often pushes insurers to take negotiations more seriously.

Step 6: Discovery

The discovery phase allows both sides to exchange information. This may involve:

• Written questions (called interrogatories)
  
• Depositions (sworn statements under oath)
  
• Expert testimony
  

Discovery can take several months, but it is a crucial step in building a strong case.

Step 7: Mediation or Settlement Conference

Before trial, many courts encourage mediation or settlement conferences. These meetings give both sides one last chance to resolve the case without going to trial.

Step 8: Trial

If a settlement isn’t reached, your case may proceed to trial. Your attorney will present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your case before a judge or jury. While most cases never make it this far, being prepared for trial ensures that you have leverage in negotiations.

Step 9: Resolution & Compensation

If your case settles or you receive a favorable verdict, the final step is disbursing the compensation. Your attorney will help resolve any medical liens and ensure you receive your portion of the settlement or judgment as quickly as possible.

Final Thoughts

Every personal injury case is different, and timelines can vary depending on the facts of your case and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate in good faith. What doesn’t change is the importance of having a skilled attorney by your side—someone who understands the process, knows the tactics insurance companies use, and is prepared to fight for you every step of the way.

If you or a loved one has been injured, contact Rogers Sevastianos & Bante LLP today. We offer free consultations and only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal situation is unique, and you should consult an attorney for personalized guidance on your specific circumstances.