Top 5 Questions About Personal Injury Cases in Poplar Bluff, Missouri

When you’re injured in an auto collision, suffer from medical malpractice, or lose a loved one in a wrongful death incident, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. At Kennedy, Robbins, Yarbro & Henson, LC, we understand the concerns our clients face regarding these complex personal injury cases. Here are the five most common questions we hear about auto collision, medical malpractice, and wrongful death claims.

1. How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Case?

In Missouri, the statute of limitations varies depending on the case type. Auto collision and most personal injury cases have a five-year statute of limitations from the date of the accident. Medical malpractice claims typically have two years from when you discovered or should have discovered the injury. Wrongful death cases must be filed within three years of the death. Don’t wait—evidence can disappear, and witness memories fade over time.

2. What Damages Can I Recover?

Whether you’re dealing with an auto collision, medical malpractice, or wrongful death case, you may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and future medical costs. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In wrongful death cases, families may also recover funeral expenses and loss of companionship. Punitive damages may be awarded in cases if the facts support a higher level of negligence.

3. Do I Really Need a Lawyer?

While Missouri law doesn’t require you to hire an attorney for auto collision, medical malpractice, or wrongful death cases, insurance companies and hospitals have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts. These complex cases often involve detailed medical records, accident reconstruction, and expert testimony. An experienced personal injury attorney understands the true value of your claim, knows how to negotiate with insurers and medical providers, and can take your case to trial if necessary. Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you win.

4. Personal Injury Cases – How Much is Mine Worth?

Every case is unique, and the value depends on multiple factors including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and impact on your daily life. Cases involving permanent disability or disfigurement typically have higher values. Our attorneys in Poplar Bluff can evaluate your specific circumstances and provide a realistic assessment of your claim’s potential worth.

5. How Long Will My Case Take?

The timeline for personal injury cases varies significantly based on case complexity, the severity of injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. Simple cases might resolve in a few months, while complex cases involving severe injuries could take years. Your attorney should keep you informed throughout the process and work diligently to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.

If you’ve been injured in an auto collision, suffered from medical malpractice, or lost a loved one due to wrongful death in Missouri, contact Kennedy, Robbins, Yarbro & Henson, LC for a free consultation. You may also call us to discuss your case. We’re here to help.