Jelani Aitch | Personal Injury Lawyer
I represent individuals and families across St. Louis who have been seriously injured through no fault of their own. My approach is built on deliberate case work, clear communication, and the belief that strong advocacy begins with truly understanding each client’s story.
Unlike high-volume firms, I don’t hand cases off to layers of staff. When you hire me, you work directly with me — from the first conversation to the resolution of your case. This allows me to develop individualized strategies designed to strengthen liability, increase case value, and secure meaningful compensation.
Many of my clients come to me after larger firms decline their cases. I evaluate matters differently: with time, attention, and a willingness to explore angles others overlook. If I take your case, it’s because I believe in it — and I’m committed to achieving the accountability and financial recovery you deserve.
Over $1 Million Dollars Obtained for Our Clients in St. Louis
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$300,000 Jury Verdict
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$1,560,000 Settlement
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$120,000 Settlement
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$25,000 Settlement
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Legal Representation Tailored to the Complexity of Your Injury
Every injury has its own story — how it happened, who is responsible, and how it has altered your life. I represent clients across a range of personal injury matters, focusing on cases that require careful attention, detailed analysis, and a deliberate legal strategy. Whether the harm was caused on the road, in a business, at a medical facility, or due to an animal attack, my role is to understand the full scope of the injury and pursue accountability with intention.
the challenge injured people face
When someone is injured because of another’s negligence, they enter a process they never expected to navigate. The personal injury field is crowded, insurance companies move quickly, and big firms often feel impersonal or unresponsive. Many people aren’t sure whether their case is “serious enough,” and some have already been told by larger firms that their case isn’t worth taking.
What Injured Clients Need Most
In these moments, injured people need clarity, personal attention, and an attorney who listens carefully and evaluates their case with intention. They need direct communication, a strategic plan, and an advocate who understands how insurers operate — and how to respond with preparation and precision.
If you are injured in an accident in St. Louis, your first priority should always be your health and safety. Call 911 right away if you need emergency medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s critical to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible—many injuries (like concussions, whiplash, or internal trauma) may not show symptoms right away, and having medical documentation creates an essential record for any future claim.
Next, if you are able, document the scene of the accident. Take photographs of the accident site, any vehicles or equipment involved, weather or road conditions, and your visible injuries. Collect the names and contact information of witnesses, as their statements may support your claim later. If the accident involves a motor vehicle, call the police so that an official accident report is filed—this report often becomes a key piece of evidence.
You should also notify your insurance company, but be cautious about providing detailed statements, especially before consulting with an attorney. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts, and anything you say may be used against you.
Another important step is to avoid posting details on social media. Insurance companies and opposing parties frequently monitor online activity to challenge injury claims.
Finally, as soon as possible, consult with a St. Louis personal injury lawyer. Missouri law has strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims (known as the statute of limitations), and an attorney can help you preserve evidence, navigate communication with insurers, and determine the full value of your damages. Acting quickly ensures your rights are protected and maximizes your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Answered by Jelani Aitch, Esq.
Filing an insurance claim for a car accident in Missouri involves several steps. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:
1. Ensure Safety and Call Authorities
- Check for Injuries: Ensure everyone is safe and call 911 if there are any injuries.
- Move to Safety: If the vehicles are drivable, move them to a safe location out of traffic.
- Call the Police: Report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. Obtain a copy of the police report.
2. Gather Information
- Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance details from all parties involved in the accident.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, damages, and the accident scene from multiple angles. Also, take note of weather conditions, road conditions, and any other relevant details.
- Witness Information: Get contact information from any witnesses to the accident.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
- Contact Your Insurer: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurers have a 24/7 claims reporting hotline.
- Provide Details: Be prepared to provide the details of the accident, including the police report number, information about the other driver(s), and any documentation you have gathered.
4. File the Claim
- Complete Claim Forms: Your insurance company will provide you with the necessary forms to file a claim. Fill these out accurately and thoroughly.
- Submit Documentation: Submit any requested documentation, such as the police report, photos, medical records, and repair estimates.
5. Work with the Claims Adjuster
- Investigation: An insurance adjuster will investigate the claim, which may involve inspecting the vehicle, reviewing documentation, and possibly interviewing witnesses.
- Repair Estimates: The adjuster will assess the damage and provide repair estimates. You may also need to obtain estimates from approved repair shops.
6. Resolution and Settlement
- Settlement Offer: Once the investigation is complete, the insurance company will make a settlement offer to cover repairs, medical expenses, and other damages.
- Review and Negotiate: Review the offer carefully. If it seems insufficient, you can negotiate with the insurance company or consult with an attorney for assistance.
- Accepting the Offer: Once you accept the settlement offer, the insurance company will process the payment.
Additional Tips
- Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to seek medical attention as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of all communications, expenses, and documents related to the accident and your claim.
- Legal Advice: Consider consulting with a car accident attorney to ensure your rights are protected and to help navigate complex claims, especially if there are significant injuries or disputes.
If you have any specific questions or need further assistance with your claim, feel free to reach out to your insurance provider or consult with a legal professional.
Answered by Jelani Aitch, Esq.
Obtaining a copy of a police report in Missouri involves a few steps. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:
1. Determine the Appropriate Law Enforcement Agency
Identify the law enforcement agency that responded to the accident. This could be a city police department, county sheriff’s office, or the Missouri State Highway Patrol, depending on where the accident occurred.
2. Contact the Law Enforcement Agency
- City Police Department: For accidents within city limits, contact the local police department.
- County Sheriff’s Office: For accidents in unincorporated areas, contact the county sheriff’s office.
- Missouri State Highway Patrol: For accidents on state highways or involving state patrol officers, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
3. Submit a Request for the Police Report
Each agency has its own procedure for requesting police reports. Here are the general steps:
City Police Departments and County Sheriff’s Offices:
- Visit the Agency’s Website: Many local law enforcement agencies have online request forms or information on how to request a police report.
- In-Person Request: You can visit the police department or sheriff’s office in person to request the report.
- Mail or Fax: Some agencies allow you to submit a request via mail or fax. Check the specific agency’s website for instructions.
Missouri State Highway Patrol:
- Online Request: The Missouri State Highway Patrol offers an online request form for accident reports. Visit the Missouri State Highway Patrol website and follow the instructions for requesting a crash report.
- Mail Request: You can also request a report by mail by sending a written request along with any required fees to the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s office.
4. Provide Necessary Information
When requesting a police report, you’ll need to provide specific information to help locate the report:
- Accident Date and Time
- Location of the Accident
- Names of the Parties Involved
- Report Number (if known)
5. Pay Any Required Fees
There may be a fee associated with obtaining a copy of the police report. The fee amount varies by agency. Be prepared to pay this fee when you submit your request.
6. Wait for Processing
After submitting your request, it may take several days to a few weeks to receive the report, depending on the agency’s processing time.
Additional Tips
- Follow Up: If you haven’t received the report within the expected timeframe, follow up with the agency to check on the status of your request.
- Attorney Assistance: If you’re working with a car accident attorney, they can often obtain the police report on your behalf.
For specific instructions, visit the website of the law enforcement agency that responded to your accident or contact them directly.
Answered by Jelani Aitch, Esq.
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including car accident claims, is generally five years from the date of the accident. This means that you have five years to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for injuries or damages sustained in the accident.
However, there are some exceptions and special circumstances that can affect this time limit:
- Claims Against Government Entities: If the accident involves a government entity or employee, the time frame to file a claim may be much shorter. In some cases, you may need to file a formal claim with the appropriate government agency within 90 days.
- Minors and Incapacitated Persons: If the injured party is a minor or is deemed legally incapacitated, the statute of limitations may be extended.
- Discovery Rule: In some cases, the statute of limitations may be extended if the injury or damage was not immediately apparent and was discovered at a later date.
It’s essential to consult with an experienced car accident attorney to understand the specific time limits and requirements for your case.
Anwered by Jelani Aitch, Esq.
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