When someone else’s negligence upends your life, an experienced Independence personal injury lawyer can help you take back control.
At Empower Injury Law, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. As you focus on healing, we’ll handle the paperwork, deal with the insurance companies, and manage every part of your claim, so you’re not left to face it all on your own.
You deserve support, clarity, and a path forward. Call today for your 100% free consultation.
HOW OUR INDEPENDENCE PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER CAN HELP YOU
Suffering an injury is stressful; pursuing compensation shouldn’t be. Here’s what you can expect when you work with Empower Injury Law in Independence, MO:
Free Case Review & Legal Insight We begin with a complimentary consultation. An Independence personal injury lawyer will listen to your experience, evaluate your situation, and outline your next steps.
Simple, Supportive Onboarding From day one, we collect key documents, explain what to expect, and make sure you have a clear line of communication every step of the way.
Medical Coordination & Fact-Finding As you focus on recovery, we collect police reports, medical documentation, witness statements, and other evidence to build a solid foundation for your case.
Comprehensive Demand Letter We compile a detailed demand package for the insurance company, presenting your injuries, treatment, and damages in a compelling and organized format.
Skilled Negotiation We don’t settle for low offers. We use skilled negotiation and legal experience to pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Settlement or Lawsuit Our Independence personal injury attorney settles most cases through negotiation. But when needed, we take your case to trial to protect your rights in court.
“As a local police officer, I know auto accidents can be complicated and tough to navigate, but Kevin made the entire process smooth and stress-free. He did an outstanding job handling my case. From day one, his communication was clear, prompt, and professional. I always knew where things stood, and he never left me guessing. Kevin worked tirelessly to get the best possible outcome, and it was clear he genuinely cared about the result. He fought hard on my behalf and made sure every detail was handled with care and precision. If you’re looking for a lawyer who’s not only knowledgeable but also fully committed to his clients, Kevin is the guy you want in your corner.”
“I was in my first serious accident, and working with Kevin made all the difference. From the moment I called him, he took immediate action and gave me clear, helpful advice. He answered all my questions, addressed every concern, and was always easy to reach—never leaving me waiting for a response. Kevin made the entire process smooth and stress-free. He truly made me feel like family, and I can’t recommend him enough. If you’re looking for an attorney who genuinely cares and gets results, Kevin is the best in town. Thank you, Kevin, for everything!”
Our client was an elderly man of modest means who was killed in a car accident by a reckless driver. The other driver claimed that our client was at-fault for causing the accident. After hard-fought litigation, we obtained a financial settlement that provided financial security for his widow and college funds for his grandchildren.
$2,000,000 Motorcycle Accident
Our client was injured in a motorcycle accident when another car crashed into him at an intersection. He suffered a serious brain injury that left him permanently disabled.
At first, the insurance company told his family there was only $100,000 in coverage to pay for his medical bills and replace his income for his family. However, our investigation revealed additional insurance coverages that provided him and his family with much-needed financial resources. Now, he doesn’t have to worry about taking care of his family while he continues to regain his health.
$2,000,000 Bicycle Accident
A teenager struck our client while our client was riding his bicycle around his neighborhood. Our client ultimately died from his injuries.
The teenager had minimum insurance limits, but using creative legal strategies, we were able to unlock millions of additional coverage for our client’s family.
Our client’s widow was able to retire early so she could spend more time with her family, while our client’s children could get a head start on retirement and become first-time homeowners. No amount of money will ever replace a loved one, but we were able to pull a few blessings from this very tragic situation.
$800,000+ Semi-Truck Accident
Our client was hit on the side of her car by a fully loaded semi-truck when the truck driver made a last-second lane change to avoid taking an exit on the highway. Our client suffered spinal injuries that were so severe she couldn’t work in her job as a house cleaner anymore, and she didn’t have health insurance to get the treatment she needed to get better.
We were able to help her find medical providers who would work with her insurance situation. Then we got her a settlement that paid off her medical bills and put a large amount in her pocket so she could start a new career as a real estate investor. She’s doing well now.
$300,000 Car Accident
Our client was t-boned by a young driver when he was passing through an intersection on his way home from work. He suffered a serious concussion and soft tissue orthopedic injuries that made it difficult for him to work in his landscaping job.
The insurance company initially offered him $10,000, but after we got involved, we were able to get the full limits of the at-fault driver’s insurance policy. He used the money to support himself and his family while transitioning to a less labor-intensive career.
UNDERSTANDING PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS IN INDEPENDENCE, MO
A personal injury claim in Independence, Missouri, allows you to pursue compensation if you’ve been injured due to another person’s actions or failure to act responsibly. These claims rely on legal principles that identify who is at fault and who must take responsibility for your damages.
Negligence Negligence is the most common reason people file personal injury claims. It happens when someone fails to use reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. For instance, a distracted driver in Independence who rear-ends a stopped vehicle may be considered negligent and liable for resulting injuries.
Intentional Acts When someone causes harm on purpose, such as in an assault or other deliberate attack, you may have a claim based on intentional wrongdoing. In these cases, you can seek compensation not only for your injuries but also for emotional distress and pain and suffering.
Strict Liability Strict liability holds someone legally responsible for injuries even if they didn’t mean to cause harm or act carelessly. In Missouri, dog bite cases often fall under this category. If a dog bites someone in Independence, the owner may be liable regardless of the dog’s history or behavior.
HOW TO PROVE A PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM IN INDEPENDENCE, MO
To pursue a personal injury claim in Independence, Missouri, you need to prove that another person’s actions, or failure to act responsibly, caused your injuries and resulting losses. This process focuses on four elements:
Duty of Care First, we must establish that the other party had a legal obligation to act with caution and consideration for your safety. For example, motorists must follow traffic laws, and property owners must maintain safe conditions for visitors.
Breach of Duty Next, we need to show that this duty was not upheld. Common examples include a driver speeding through a red light, a store owner failing to warn of a wet floor, or an employer not following workplace safety standards. This breach is the foundation of liability.
Causation We must then establish a direct connection between the careless or reckless behavior and your injury. In other words, we need to prove that your injuries wouldn’t have occurred if the other person had acted responsibly.
Damages Finally, it’s necessary to demonstrate that the incident caused real, measurable harm. This can include medical bills, lost wages, property repairs, physical pain, emotional suffering, and any long-term impact on your well-being.
COMPARATIVE FAULT AND YOUR MISSOURI PERSONAL INJURY CASE
Car accidents happen far too often in Independence. According to theMissouri State Highway Patrol, Independence experienced 6,845 total crashes between 2021 and 2023, ranking it fourth-highest among all Missouri cities during that period.
If you’re hurt in an accident, Missouri’s pure comparative fault system allows you to recover compensation even if you’re partially responsible. However, your total compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
Example Scenario: Accident at Highway 291 and 23rd Street
Let’s say you’re driving on Highway 291 when you approach the busy intersection at 23rd Street, a location known for frequent collisions. You’re slightly speeding when another driver suddenly makes a left turn in front of you, causing a crash.
After the investigation:
You’re found 25% at fault for driving over the speed limit.
The other driver is found 75% at fault for failing to yield.
Your total damages equal $80,000.
Because Missouri follows comparative fault rules, your compensation would be reduced by your share of the blame. Instead of the full amount, you’d recover $60,000.
An experienced Independence personal injury lawyer can help build your case and minimize your share of fault, giving you the best chance at recovering the compensation you deserve.
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS IN MISSOURI PERSONAL INJURY CASES
If you’ve been injured in Independence, MO, you generally have five years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
For wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations is shorter. Families typically have three years to bring a claim.
If your accident was caused in part by a defective or poorly maintained road controlled by a government agency, Missouri law requires you to file formal notice of your claim within 90 days of the accident.
Failing to meet these legal deadlines means you may lose your right to compensation. To avoid missing your window to file, speak with an experienced Independence personal injury attorney at Empower Injury Law today.
COMPENSATION FOR INDEPENDENCE PERSONAL INJURY VICTIMS
In personal injury cases, you seek “damages” to recover money for the hardships and losses your injury caused. These payments reflect both your financial costs and personal struggles.
ECONOMIC DAMAGES
Economic damages cover your measurable financial losses, including expenses and lost income caused by the accident. These may include:
Medical Costs: Expenses for emergency care, hospital treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and follow-up care.
Lost Income & Future Earnings: Compensation for missed paychecks during recovery and any reduced ability to earn income in the future.
Property Repairs or Replacement: Coverage for damaged personal property, like your vehicle in a car crash.
NON-ECONOMIC DAMAGES
Non-economic damages address the personal impact of your injuries, things you can’t measure with a receipt, but still significantly affect your life:
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and reduced quality of life caused by your injuries.
Emotional Distress: Damages for conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other emotional trauma.
Loss of Life’s Enjoyment: Compensation for activities, hobbies, or daily routines you can no longer enjoy because of your injury.
PUNITIVE DAMAGES
Punitive damages are different from other types of compensation. These punish the wrongdoer for especially reckless or harmful behavior and discourage others from acting similarly. Courts in Missouri typically reserve punitive damages for situations where someone’s actions show a blatant disregard for the safety of others.
HOW MUCH IS MY INDEPENDENCE PERSONAL INJURY CASE WORTH?
The value of a personal injury claim in Independence, Missouri, depends on several key factors, such as how serious your injuries are, the cost of your medical care, the income you’ve lost, and the pain and emotional strain you’ve endured.
Watch this video to learn more about what influences the value of your case and how our legal team works to help you pursue the maximum compensation possible.
MISTAKES THAT CAN HURT YOUR INDEPENDENCE PERSONAL INJURY CASE
The steps you take after an accident can make or break your personal injury claim. To protect your rights and improve your chances of full compensation, avoid these common mistakes:
Delaying Medical Care Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare provider. Some injuries aren’t immediately obvious, and medical documentation is critical for connecting your condition to the accident.
Failing to Report the Accident Always notify the right parties, whether that’s the police, a property owner, or your employer. An official accident report serves as important evidence in your claim.
Taking the Blame You may feel tempted to apologize in the heat of the moment, but avoid making statements that admit fault. Instead, calmly explain what happened and let investigators decide who is responsible.
Not Gathering Evidence If you’re able, take photos of the scene, gather witness contact information, and write down what you remember. These details may be important later, especially as evidence disappears and memories fade.
Accepting a Quick Settlement Insurance companies often try to settle fast and cheap. Don’t accept their first offer without speaking to an Independence personal injury attorney, who can help you understand the true value of your claim and negotiate for fair compensation.
HOW MUCH DOES AN INDEPENDENCE, MO PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER COST?
When you hire an Independence personal injury attorney, cost shouldn’t be a barrier to getting the help you need. At Empower Injury Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, so you can concentrate on healing without worrying about legal expenses.
No Upfront Fees Your consultation is completely free. You won’t pay anything to start your case, and we never charge hidden fees.
You Pay Only If You Win Our payment comes from a percentage of the compensation we recover for you, whether through a settlement or a court verdict. If we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us anything.
Clear, Honest Pricing From day one, we’ll explain exactly how our fees work. You’ll understand your financial commitment upfront, with no hidden charges or unexpected costs later.
CONTACT AN INDEPENDENCE PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER TODAY
Finding the right Independence personal injury lawyer can make all the difference when you’re trying to move forward after an accident. At Empower Injury Law, we’re here to guide you through the legal process, take the stress off your shoulders, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured, you don’t have to handle this alone. Call us at (816) 892-9909 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation.
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This page was fact-checked and approved by Kevin Jones, a personal injury attorney with over 15 years of experience and a frequent speaker on personal injury topics. Voted the #1 attorney in the Courier Tribune and Gladstone Dispatch’s “Best of the Northland” annual community survey, Kevin has empowered hundreds of clients to reclaim control of their lives after serious injuries, helping them restore their finances, support their families, and move forward with confidence. His commitment to accurate, trustworthy guidance makes every page a reliable resource for those seeking support on their path to recovery.
I was in a car accident in Missouri and had no idea how to deal with all the medical bills or insurance stuff. Thankfully, I found this amazing personal injury lawyer. Kevin and his team handled everything from start to finish, and not only did they get me a great settlement, but they also got my medical bills reduced and paid off! I even ended up with a nice amount in my pocket. The whole team was super helpful, keeping me in the loop the whole time. If you need a car accident lawyer who actually cares and gets things done, I can’t recommend them enough!
—JM
Kevin went above and beyond to get the max amount awarded to me in a settlement for an automobile accident I was involved in. He guided me through the process and advocated for me until we were able to get the best settlement possible in my case. His experience, knowledge, negotiation skills, communication, and follow through took the stress off my plate and made something that could have been extremely difficult and stressful for me, an easy and stress free process. I would highly recommend Kevin if you are in need of a trustworthy and reliable lawyer who will fight for you.
—HS
After a car accident and a terrible time with the insurance companies, I contacted Kevin Jones. He jumped right in and was able to work with all parties to get a great settlement offer. He made the process easy and gave me great advice about which steps to take moving forward. I am grateful for his help and would definitely recommend him to my family and friends, should they ever find themselves in a similar situation. It is very comforting to have an expert on your side. Thank you!
—SB
I was involved in a car accident that left my life changed forever. Hiring Kevin Jones was the best decision my wife and I made after. He went to battle with the insurance companies and got me the the treatment I needed. His skills awarded my wife and I a substantial recovery along with peace of mind that we were never alone. Thank you Kevin for all the hard work you put in to protect us and keep me moving forward with my recovery.
—CJ
Kevin helped us with a moto vehicle accident. He was knowledgeable, respectful and truly was concerned with our well-being. Most importantly, he listened to us. He explained the process he would go through in dealing with the insurance companies and handled everything. We didn’t have to worry about dealing with anything except recovering from our injuries and for that we are extremely grateful!
—JS
Kevin came highly recommended by another attorney I had worked with, so he’s well thought of in the legal community and is considered an expert in his field. He’s knowledgeable, professional and experienced, so he made a very bad situation manageable. He’s also a very kind person and was so helpful during the entire process.
