The insurance company has already offered to pay my medical bills. Why do I need a lawyer?

In Missouri, an injury victim is entitled to be made whole by the party responsible. The actual dollar value of the claim depends on the specific circumstances of your case, but typically full compensation includes money for pain and suffering, lost wages, diminished earning capacity in the future, and future possible medical bills. These amounts are all in addition to compensation for your medical bills and it can be a substantial amount of money depending on the case. There may also be a claim for punitive damages. As a result, it is important to consult a lawyer to discuss what your maximum legal recovery should be before you enter any agreement with an insurance company or accept any money.

How much money will I need to hire your law firm?

Bergmanis & McDuffey, LLC typically takes injury and death cases on a contingency fee basis. You are not charged unless and until there is a recovery. Attorney fees and expenses are deducted from the recovery after it is made on the gross amount recovered. We do not require you to pay any up front expenses, fees, or attorney's fees. We understand that an injury or death often makes it difficult for a victim to pay his or her own bills, let alone advancing costs for a lawsuit. At the conclusion of the case, we ask to be reimbursed for the costs after a recovery is made.

Why is it important to hire a lawyer who is experienced in handling injury cases?

Injury law is very complicated. Insurance companies hire lawyers that focus only on defending accident claims. In order to pursue your case effectively and protect your rights, it is necessary to hire an attorney that has extensive experience in pursuing personal injury claims. Doing so will provide you the opportunity to receive the maximum recovery for your claim.

How do I choose the right lawyer?

As with anything, research is the key. Gather information on law firms in the regional area where the accident happened. Ask the lawyer if they focus in a particular area of the law, and ask about their experience in dealing with similar cases to yours.

Filing a lawsuit sounds bad. Is there any way I can make the insurance company pay a fair amount without filing a lawsuit?

Most lawsuits do not result in a jury trial. In fact, many cases are settled prior to filing a lawsuit. The most important thing you can do to ensure fair treatment is to hire a law firm that can gather the proper information, preserve the proper evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company. The law firm must be capable and proficient at filing and trying a lawsuit if the insurance company does not offer a fair amount. The final decision as to whether a lawsuit is actually filed is up to you.

Bergmanis & McDuffey, LLC
380 West U.S. Highway 54, Suite 201
Camdenton, MO 65020

We represent clients throughout Missouri, including Central Missouri, Lake of the Ozarks, Camdenton, Osage Beach, Lebanon, Lake Ozark, Linn Creek, Eldon, Versailles, and all of Camden County, Miller County, Morgan County, and Laclede County.