Omaha Auto Accident Attorney
Legally Reviewed By: Robert M. Knowles
Attorney & Partner At Knowles Law Firm
Car accidents happen in an instant but can change your life forever. In the chaotic moments after a collision, the actions you take can significantly impact both your physical recovery and your legal rights. At Knowles Law Firm, we’ve guided thousands of Omaha accident victims through these critical first steps over our 55 years of practice.
When you’re involved in a collision, quick decisions must be made that can have lasting consequences. Many victims inadvertently damage their cases by saying the wrong thing to insurance adjusters, failing to document crucial evidence, or delaying medical treatment. Our Omaha personal injury attorneys have seen how these common mistakes can substantially reduce compensation – or even prevent recovery altogether.
What To Do After a Motor Accident
The moments following a car accident are critical. With adrenaline surging through your body and confusion setting in, knowing exactly what steps to take can make all the difference in protecting both your health and your legal rights. As Omaha’s trusted car accident attorneys since 1969, we’ve guided thousands of accident victims through these challenging moments.
After a crash, the steps you take can significantly impact your health and legal rights. Follow this guide to protect yourself:
1. Ensure Safety and Call 911
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Check yourself and passengers for injuries
- Call 911 even for seemingly minor accidents
- Remain at the scene until police arrive
2. Document the Scene
- Take photos of all vehicles from multiple angles
- Photograph the accident location, road conditions, and traffic signs
- Capture visible injuries
- Note weather and visibility conditions
3. Exchange Information
- Get other drivers’ names, contact details, and insurance information
- Record license plate numbers and vehicle makes/models
- Obtain contact information from any witnesses
- Note police officers’ names and badge numbers
4. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- Get examined even if you feel “fine” – many injuries appear days later
- Tell doctors the accident caused your injuries
- Follow all treatment recommendations
- Keep detailed records of all medical visits
5. Report to Your Insurance Company
- Notify your insurer about the accident promptly
- Provide basic facts only
- Don’t speculate about fault or injury severity
- Don’t accept recorded statements until speaking with an attorney
6. Contact Knowles Law Firm Before Giving Statements
- Call us at (402) 431-9000 before speaking with any insurance adjusters
- Don’t sign any documents without legal review
- Preserve all evidence and documentation
- Schedule a free consultation to understand your options
Our Car Accident Experience: Decades of Proven Results
At Knowles Law Firm, our dedication to car accident victims is backed by concrete experience and measurable results that set us apart from other Omaha firms. We understand that after an accident, you need legal representation you can trust—a team with the knowledge, resources, and track record to secure the compensation you deserve.
Our firm’s history of success speaks for itself through the numbers and settlements we’ve achieved for our clients. These aren’t just statistics to us; each figure represents a family we’ve helped recover and move forward after a traumatic experience.
specializing in personal injury and car accident cases
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Our record includes numerous significant car accident recoveries:
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Attorney Expertise
With nearly 40 years of experience practicing personal injury law since 1985, Robert brings proven expertise to every car accident case. He holds an AV Preeminent Rating by Martindale-Hubbell (the highest rating possible) and was selected as a Top 100 Litigation Lawyer in Nebraska for 2014 by the American Society of Legal Advocates (less than 1.5% of lawyers nationally receive this recognition).
As part of the second generation of Knowles attorneys, Jim Jr. continues the family tradition of dedicated personal injury representation with decades of experience handling complex car accident cases throughout Nebraska.
Our multi-generational approach includes Matthew J. Knowles, Christina M. Knowles, and Benjamin C. Knowles, ensuring continuity in legal knowledge and a deep understanding of Nebraska personal injury law.
Award-Winning Car Accident Representation
Recent recognition demonstrates our commitment to excellence:
- Best Car Accident Lawyers in Omaha by Expertise.com (2024-2025)
- Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lincoln by Expertise.com (2024-2025)
- Best Truck Accident Lawyers in Lincoln by Expertise.com (2024-2025)
- Best of Omaha 2025 Winner for Wrongful Death Law Office (Omaha Magazine)
Our Proven Resources
We leverage extensive resources to build compelling car accident cases:
- Direct access to accident reconstruction specialists
- Established relationships with medical experts who understand car accident injuries
- Advanced case investigation techniques developed over 55+ years
- Strong relationships with local courts, medical providers, and expert witnesses
- Comprehensive understanding of Nebraska insurance laws and regulations
This depth of experience and specialized knowledge allows us to anticipate defense strategies, accurately value your claim, and build compelling cases that insurance companies take seriously from the outset.
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle
Not all car accidents are the same, and each type presents unique legal challenges that require specialized knowledge and experience. Our attorneys understand the distinct factors that contribute to different collision types and how they affect liability determinations and injury patterns. We’ve successfully handled every type of car accident case, from simple rear-end collisions to complex multi-vehicle crashes.
Rear-end accidents often cause serious neck and back injuries, including herniated discs and chronic pain. While Nebraska law typically holds the trailing driver responsible, we know how to handle complex scenarios involving multiple vehicles or weather conditions. Our experience with these cases helps us secure fair compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Side impact crashes at intersections can cause severe injuries due to limited vehicle protection. These cases often involve disputed liability and conflicting accounts. We work with accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals to prove fault and document injuries. Our thorough approach ensures clients receive full compensation for their losses.
These catastrophic accidents often result from impairment, distraction, or improper passing. Victims typically face life-changing injuries requiring extensive medical care. Our attorneys coordinate with medical experts and life-care planners to calculate long-term needs, pursuing maximum compensation from all available insurance sources.
Chain-reaction crashes require careful investigation to determine multiple parties’ liability. We have extensive experience sorting through complex insurance claims, gathering evidence, and pursuing compensation from all responsible parties. Our systematic approach ensures no liable party escapes accountability for their role in the accident.
When drivers flee accident scenes, victims need experienced legal help. We investigate to identify responsible parties while pursuing uninsured motorist claims through your own coverage. Our team knows how to maximize recovery options even when the at-fault driver remains unknown.
DUI crashes demand aggressive legal action. We pursue claims against impaired drivers and potentially liable establishments through dram shop laws. Our attorneys seek full compensation including punitive damages when appropriate, helping victims access all available resources for recovery.
Cell phone use and other distractions cause preventable accidents. We subpoena phone records, gather witness statements, and use technology data to prove negligence. Our experience with these cases helps hold distracted drivers fully accountable for the injuries and damages they cause.
Rideshare accidents involve complex insurance coverage issues. We understand how coverage changes based on driver status and app activity. Our attorneys navigate both commercial and personal insurance policies to secure appropriate compensation for injured passengers and other accident victims.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Understanding the full scope of potential injuries from car accidents is crucial for building strong compensation claims. Even seemingly minor accidents can result in catastrophic injuries that may not manifest symptoms for days or weeks. Our attorneys work with medical experts to ensure all injuries are properly diagnosed, documented, and valued in your claim.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Even “mild” concussions can lead to long-term cognitive issues, memory problems, and personality changes. TBIs often require neuropsychological testing and may necessitate ongoing therapy or accommodations. We work with neurological specialists to document how these injuries affect your daily life and future prospects, ensuring compensation reflects both immediate and long-term needs.
Spinal Cord Injuries
From herniated discs to paralysis, spinal injuries can permanently alter your life. These cases require careful documentation of both medical costs and life-care needs. Our attorneys collaborate with medical experts, life-care planners, and economists to calculate the full lifetime cost of these injuries, which often reaches into the millions of dollars.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries
Though insurance companies often try to minimize these injuries, they can lead to chronic pain and disability. We ensure proper diagnostic imaging and specialist evaluations document the full extent of soft tissue damage. Our approach has helped countless clients receive fair compensation for these often-undervalued injuries.
Broken Bones
Fractures may require surgical intervention, hardware installation, and extensive rehabilitation. We document both the acute care costs and long-term implications, including arthritis risk and permanent mobility limitations. Our attorneys have extensive experience demonstrating how these injuries impact specific occupations and activities.
Internal Injuries
Damaged organs, internal bleeding, and other hidden injuries can be life-threatening and may result in permanent health complications. These cases require careful medical documentation and expert testimony to establish the connection between the accident and injuries that weren’t immediately apparent. We have successfully handled numerous cases involving delayed diagnosis of internal injuries.
Psychological Trauma
Post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression often accompany physical injuries but require different types of documentation and treatment. We work with psychological experts to establish how these conditions impact your quality of life and ability to work. Our holistic approach ensures both physical and emotional injuries are properly valued in your claim.
WATCH: James W. Knowles Jr. explains how they handle all personal injuries related to car accident claims. Robert Knowles shares the importance of calling their Omaha legal team on day one.
Our Auto Accident Legal Process: What to Expect When Working With Us
Navigating a car accident claim can feel overwhelming, especially while you’re recovering from injuries. Our structured approach has been refined over thousands of cases to maximize your compensation while minimizing stress and confusion. Every client receives personalized attention throughout their case, with clear communication at each stage of the process.
Your Car Accident Case Timeline
1. Free Initial Consultation (1-2 Days)
We meet with you to discuss your accident, injuries, and legal options. You’ll receive straightforward advice and a preliminary case assessment. During this meeting, we explain our contingency fee structure and answer all your questions before you decide to hire us.
2. Investigation Phase (2-4 Weeks)
Our team immediately begins gathering and preserving critical evidence:
- Accident scene documentation and photographs
- Police reports and witness statements
- Vehicle damage assessments
- Video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses
- Electronic data from vehicle systems when available
- Medical records documenting your injuries
During this phase, we provide weekly updates on our progress and findings.
3. Medical Treatment & Documentation (Ongoing, typically 3-9 months)
While you focus on recovery, we:
- Coordinate with your healthcare providers to ensure proper documentation
- Monitor your treatment progress
- Consult with medical experts about long-term prognosis when needed
- Compile all medical records and bills
We check in with you bi-weekly during this phase to track your recovery progress and address any concerns.
4. Case Building & Valuation (2-4 Weeks)
Once your medical condition has stabilized, we:
- Calculate economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages, property damage)
- Assess non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress)
- Consult with experts if needed (economic, vocational, life-care planners)
- Prepare a comprehensive demand package
We schedule an in-person meeting to review our valuation analysis and set negotiation parameters with your input.
5. Negotiation Phase (1-3 Months)
We present your case to the insurance company and negotiate for maximum compensation:
- Submit detailed demand package with supporting evidence
- Counter lowball offers with evidence-based arguments
- Keep you informed of all offers and provide recommendations
- Obtain your approval before accepting any settlement
During negotiations, you’ll receive updates within 24 hours of any significant developments.
6. Settlement or Litigation Decision (1-2 Weeks)
If the insurance company makes a fair offer, we finalize your settlement. If not, we discuss filing a lawsuit:
- Review litigation pros and cons
- Explain timeline and process
- Discuss potential outcomes
- Make an informed decision together
7. Litigation Process (If Necessary, 9-18 Months)
If we file a lawsuit, we guide you through each step:
- Filing court documents
- Discovery process (written questions, document exchanges)
- Depositions (recorded testimony)
- Mediation attempts
- Trial preparation
- Court trial if necessary
During litigation, we schedule monthly case review meetings and provide immediate updates after any court proceedings.
8. Resolution & Disbursement (1-2 Weeks)
Once your case resolves, we:
- Prepare a detailed settlement statement
- Negotiate medical liens and outstanding bills
- Process final paperwork
- Disburse funds promptly
Required Documentation From You
To build your strongest case, we’ll need you to provide:
Immediately After Hiring Us:
- Photo ID and contact information
- Insurance policy information (auto and health)
- Photos you took of the accident scene and injuries
- Names and contact information for witnesses
- Initial medical records and bills received
- Employment information for lost wage claims
Ongoing Documentation:
- Medical appointment calendar
- Treatment-related expenses (medications, medical devices, etc.)
- Mileage log for medical appointments
- Pay stubs or income statements showing lost wages
- Daily pain and limitation journal (we provide a template)
- All communication from insurance companies
Our Communication Commitment
We understand the importance of keeping you informed throughout your case:
- 24/7 Emergency Access: You’ll have your attorney’s cell phone number for urgent matters
- Scheduled Updates: Regular check-ins even when there are no major developments
- Response Guarantee: All calls returned within 24 hours, emails within 48 hours
- Secure Client Portal: Access your case documents and status updates anytime
- Decision Transparency: No major decisions made without your informed consent
- Plain-Language Communication: Legal concepts explained clearly without jargon
How We Handle Insurance Companies
We take over all insurance communications to protect your interests:
- Initial Notification: We formally inform all insurers of our representation
- Information Control: All requests for information or statements come through us
- Strategic Disclosure: We carefully manage what information is shared and when
- Documentation Tracking: All communications are logged and preserved as evidence
- Negotiation Strategy: We use proven techniques to counter common insurance tactics
- Settlement Authority: No offer is accepted without your explicit approval
By managing this process for thousands of clients, we’ve refined an approach that reduces your stress while maximizing your recovery. You can focus on healing while we handle the complexities of your legal claim.
Most people, in the first meeting, are focused on their immediate concerns—how they're going to pay their bills or get their car fixed. But we also talk about the bigger picture, so they understand where their case is headed.
Insurance Company Tactics to Watch For
Insurance companies employ trained adjusters whose primary goal is to minimize payouts on valid claims, often using sophisticated tactics to reduce or deny compensation. Understanding these strategies helps protect you from inadvertently damaging your own case. Our experience dealing with every major insurance company allows us to anticipate and counter these tactics effectively.
Quick Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often contact accident victims within days offering settlements far below what the case is worth. They hope you’ll accept before understanding the full extent of your injuries or consulting an attorney.
Recorded Statement Requests
Adjusters may pressure you to give recorded statements, claiming they’re “just trying to process your claim.” These statements can be taken out of context or used to confuse you later. We prepare our clients for necessary statements and are present during them to protect their interests.
Requests for Unlimited Medical Records
Insurers often request blanket authorizations to access your entire medical history, then search for “pre-existing conditions” they can blame for your current injuries. We ensure medical authorizations are appropriately limited in scope and time period to protect your privacy and prevent mischaracterization of your health history.
Disputing Liability
Even in clear-cut cases, insurance companies may try to shift blame to you or third parties. They may claim you violated traffic laws or that another factor caused the accident. Our investigation process includes gathering witness statements, obtaining traffic camera footage, and consulting accident reconstruction experts to establish clear liability.
Minimizing Injury Severity
Adjusters routinely downplay injury severity, particularly with “invisible” injuries like concussions or soft tissue damage. They may suggest your treatment was unnecessary or that you’re exaggerating symptoms. We work closely with your medical providers to document the full impact of your injuries and obtain expert testimony when needed to establish the connection between the accident and your condition.
Surveillance Tactics
In higher-value cases, insurance companies may hire investigators to follow you and record your activities, hoping to catch you doing something inconsistent with your claimed injuries. We advise clients about this possibility and ensure their medical limitations are clearly documented to prevent mischaracterization of normal activities.
Let Knowles Law Firm Fight for the Justice You Deserve. Call Us at (402) 431-9000 for a Free Case Evaluation Today.
Client Testimonials from Omaha Car Accident Victims
Nothing speaks to our effectiveness better than the words of clients we’ve helped recover from serious car accidents. These testimonials represent real people who trusted us during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Their experiences reflect our commitment to personalized service, aggressive advocacy, and achieving meaningful results for every client.
Our Fee Structure & Transparency
Legal representation shouldn’t add financial stress to an already difficult situation following a car accident. Our contingency fee structure ensures you can access experienced legal representation regardless of your current financial circumstances. We believe in complete transparency about costs so you can make informed decisions about your case.
No Upfront Costs
You pay absolutely nothing to get your case started. The initial consultation is free, and we advance all costs associated with investigating your claim, gathering records, and building your case.
Contingency Fee Explained
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning our fee is a percentage of what we recover for you:
- 33.33% if your case settles before filing a lawsuit
- 40% if litigation becomes necessary due to the substantial additional work required
This structure aligns our interests with yours—we only get paid when you do, and the more we recover for you, the more we earn.
Case Costs
We advance all expenses related to your case, including:
- Medical record retrieval
- Filing fees
- Expert witness fees when needed
- Accident reconstruction services
- Deposition costs
These costs are reimbursed from your settlement after the contingency fee is calculated. We provide a complete accounting of all costs in your settlement statement.
Medical Bill Handling
During your case, we work to:
- Establish medical liens to prevent collection actions
- Coordinate with health insurance and medical providers
- Negotiate reductions in your medical bills after settlement
- Ensure all providers are properly paid from your settlement
No Recovery = No Fee
If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing—not even the costs we’ve advanced. This guarantee removes all financial risk to you.
Settlement Distribution
When your case resolves, we provide a detailed settlement statement showing:
- Gross settlement amount
- Attorney’s fees calculation
- Itemized case costs
- Payments to medical providers and lien holders
- Your net recovery amount
We review this statement with you in person to answer any questions before disbursing funds.
Why Choose Knowles Law Firm: A Clear Comparison
When selecting a car accident attorney, understanding the differences between law firms can significantly impact your case outcome. Not all personal injury firms operate the same way or provide the same level of service and expertise. This comparison highlights the key advantages that set Knowles Law Firm apart from typical law firms and national advertising companies.
| Feature | Knowles Law Firm | Typical Law Firms | National Advertising Firms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Experience | 55 years serving Omaha with intimate knowledge of local courts, judges, and insurance practices | May have limited Omaha-specific experience | Often headquartered out-of-state with minimal local presence |
| Attorney Access | Direct communication with your attorney throughout your case | Often delegated to paralegals after initial consultation | Cases frequently managed by non-attorney case managers |
| Case Selection | Selective caseload to ensure personalized attention | May take on high volume of cases | Often operate as “settlement mills” with volume-based approach |
| Trial Preparation | Every case prepared as if it will go to trial | May prepare only cases likely to go to trial | Often avoid trial and focus on quick settlements |
| Investigation Resources | Specialized accident investigators, medical experts, and reconstruction specialists | Limited in-house investigation capabilities | Standardized investigation process regardless of case specifics |
| Fee Structure | Transparent contingency fees with detailed settlement statements | May have hidden costs or administrative fees | Often incentivized for quick turnover rather than maximum recovery |
| Local Support Network | Established relationships with Omaha medical providers, often securing priority appointments | May lack specialized medical referral network | National referral systems that don’t account for local quality |
| Client Communication | Regular updates and 24/7 emergency access | Scheduled communications only | Often limited to call center hours |
| Insurance Company Relationships | Known to Nebraska insurance adjusters with established credibility | May be unknown to local insurance representatives | Often negotiate with national representatives rather than local adjusters |
| Community Investment | Active in Omaha community with established reputation | Varying levels of community involvement | Limited or no investment in Omaha community |
| Success Record | $31.67 million recovered for accident victims with $2.4 million top auto accident recovery | Results vary significantly | Often focus on quantity over quality of settlements |
At Knowles Law Firm, we leverage these advantages to maximize your compensation while providing the personalized service you deserve. Our focus on excellence in every aspect of your case translates to better outcomes, reduced stress, and a smoother recovery process.
Local Expertise vs. National Advertising Firms
While national firms advertise heavily in Omaha, they often lack understanding of local courts, insurance practices, and medical resources. Our attorneys appear regularly in Douglas County courts and know the local judges, procedures, and jury tendencies—knowledge that can significantly impact your case outcome.
Direct Attorney Access
Unlike high-volume “settlement mills” where you rarely speak with an actual attorney, at Knowles Law Firm, you work directly with experienced car accident attorneys from initial consultation through resolution. Your case will never be passed to paralegals or case managers after you sign up.
Custom Investigation Team
We maintain relationships with specialized accident investigators, including:
- Accident reconstruction experts
- Forensic engineers
- Medical specialists
- Economic loss analysts
- Life care planners
This network allows us to build compelling evidence packages tailored to your specific case needs rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.
Proven Trial Experience
While most cases settle, insurance companies track which law firms actually take cases to trial versus those who always settle. Our willingness and ability to try cases often results in better settlement offers. Our attorneys have successfully tried numerous car accident cases to verdict, including a recent $840,000 jury award for an initially denied claim.
Technology Advantage
We utilize advanced case management systems, accident simulation software, and medical illustration technology to build compelling presentations of your case. These tools help insurance adjusters, mediators, and jurors understand the full impact of your injuries.
55 Years of Community Presence
Since 1969, we’ve been serving Omaha accident victims. This longevity has built invaluable relationships with insurance adjusters, medical providers, and the legal community that benefit our clients daily. Our reputation for ethical practice and result-oriented representation precedes us in negotiations.
Contact an Experienced Omaha Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t face the insurance companies alone. At Knowles Law Firm, we’ve spent 55 years fighting for maximum compensation for Omaha car accident victims. Our experienced attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll accidents take on victims and their families.
We’re ready to put our decades of experience, resources, and dedication to work for you. Whether you’ve suffered a minor injury or life-changing trauma, we have the resources, expertise, and dedication to handle your case effectively. Our team is standing by to provide a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and legal options.
Call us today at (402) 431-9000 or fill out our contact form to take the first step toward recovery and justice. Evening and weekend appointments are available, and we can come to you if your injuries prevent you from traveling to our office.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Omaha
Car accident victims often have similar concerns and questions about their legal rights and the claims process. We’ve organized these frequently asked questions by topic to help you quickly find the information you need. While these answers provide general guidance, every case is unique and may require personalized legal advice.
Filing a Claim
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Nebraska?
In Nebraska, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s best to begin the process much sooner. Evidence disappears, witnesses’ memories fade, and certain insurance notification requirements may have much shorter deadlines. We recommend contacting an attorney as soon as possible after your accident.
Do I need to report my accident to the police?
Yes, if the accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500. In Nebraska, you must make the report to police immediately if physically possible. If the crash was not investigated by law enforcement, state statute requires you to complete and submit a Driver’s Motor Vehicle Crash Report within 10 days to the Nebraska Department of Transportation.
Can I still file a claim if I didn't seek medical attention immediately after the accident?
Yes, but delayed medical treatment can make your claim more challenging. Insurance companies often argue that delays in seeking treatment indicate your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. We recommend seeking medical attention within 72 hours of any accident, even if you think your injuries are minor.
Liability Issues
What if the accident was partially my fault?
Nebraska follows the “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means you can recover damages as long as you’re less than 50% responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would recover $80,000.
What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options. Nebraska requires all auto insurance policies to include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) of at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This coverage can help compensate you when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. We can also investigate whether other parties may share liability.
Can I sue the city or state if poor road conditions caused my accident?
Potentially, but claims against government entities involve special rules and shorter timeframes. The Political Subdivisions Tort Claims Act and State Tort Claims Act govern these cases, requiring formal notice of your claim within six months to one year. These claims are complex and require experienced legal representation to navigate successfully.
Compensation
How much is my car accident case worth?
Every case is unique, but factors affecting value include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, permanent impairment, and impact on quality of life. While we can’t guarantee specific outcomes, our experience with similar Omaha cases helps us provide realistic assessments based on your specific circumstances.
What types of compensation can I recover after a car accident?
Compensation typically includes:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium (impact on marital relationship)
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to your injuries
How do medical liens work in car accident cases?
Medical providers and health insurance companies often place liens on your settlement, meaning they have a legal right to be reimbursed from your recovery. We negotiate with lien holders to reduce their claims whenever possible, maximizing your net recovery. We ensure all liens are properly addressed so you don’t face unexpected bills after your case resolves.
Legal Process
Will my car accident case go to trial?
Most car accident cases settle without trial, but we prepare every case as if it will go to court. Factors that increase the likelihood of trial include disputed liability, severe injuries, and unreasonable insurance offers. If trial becomes necessary, we’ll thoroughly prepare you for the process.
How long will my car accident case take to resolve?
Most straightforward cases resolve within 6-12 months. Factors affecting timeline include:
- Severity of injuries and length of medical treatment
- Clarity of liability
- Insurance company cooperation
- Whether a lawsuit needs to be filed
- Court schedules if litigation is necessary
Complex cases involving serious injuries or disputed liability may take 18-24 months or longer, especially if they go to trial.
Do I have to give a recorded statement to the insurance company?
No. In fact, we strongly advise against giving recorded statements to any insurance company without legal representation. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions that may damage your claim. Once you hire Knowles Law Firm, we handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf.
Working With Attorneys
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Omaha?
At Knowles Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery: typically 33.33% if your case settles before filing a lawsuit, or 40% if litigation becomes necessary. We advance all case costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
What should I bring to my initial consultation with an attorney?
If available, bring:
- Police report
- Photos of the accident scene and injuries
- Insurance information (yours and the other driver’s)
- Medical records and bills received so far
- Employment information if you’ve missed work
- Any correspondence from insurance companies
- Vehicle repair estimates or bills
Don’t worry if you don’t have all these items—we can help obtain necessary documentation.
How involved will I need to be in my case?
Your primary focus should be on your medical recovery. We handle the legal complexities, but we do need your participation for:
- Providing initial information about the accident
- Attending medical appointments and following treatment recommendations
- Reviewing and signing certain documents
- Possibly giving a deposition if a lawsuit is filed
- Making settlement decisions
- Attending trial if necessary
Throughout the process, we keep you informed and involved in all major decisions while minimizing your administrative burden.
Omaha Car Accident Information: Local Insights
Our 55+ years serving the Omaha community has given us unique insights into local traffic patterns, court systems, and accident trends. This local knowledge translates into strategic advantages for our clients, from understanding which intersections are most dangerous to knowing how local judges and juries typically respond to different types of cases. Understanding these local factors helps us build stronger cases and set appropriate expectations.
Omaha Accident Statistics
According to the Nebraska Department of Transportation’s most recent data:
- Douglas County leads Nebraska with approximately 9,500 traffic accidents annually
- Omaha accounts for roughly 72% of all Douglas County crashes
- Approximately 30% of Omaha accidents result in injuries
- Fatal accidents are most common on Interstate 80, West Dodge Road, and Highway 75
- Weather is a contributing factor in about 18% of Omaha accidents, with winter conditions being particularly hazardous
- Distracted driving contributes to nearly 25% of all Omaha crashes
High-Risk Accident Locations in Omaha
Based on our case history and official statistics, these intersections and road segments see the highest accident rates:
Most Dangerous Intersections:
- 72nd and Dodge Streets (47 accidents annually)
- 90th and Dodge Streets (40 accidents annually)
- 120th and L Streets (36 accidents annually)
- 132nd and Center Streets (33 accidents annually)
- 108th and Q Streets (29 accidents annually)
High-Risk Road Segments:
- I-80 between 72nd and 84th Streets
- West Dodge Road between 156th and 168th
- Highway 75 between L Street and I-80
- 144th Street between Maple and Fort
- 72nd Street between Pacific and Center
If your accident occurred at one of these locations, we’re familiar with the specific traffic patterns, visibility issues, and historical accident data that can strengthen your case.
Omaha Court System for Car Accident Cases
For Car Accident Claims & Related Traffic Violations:
1701 Farnam Street, Omaha, NE 68183
The average time to trial is 9-12 months for claims under $50,000 and 12-18 months for claims over $50,000.
Our attorneys appear regularly in these courts and are familiar with local judges, court staff, and procedural nuances that can impact your case outcome.
Nebraska-Specific Insurance Requirements
Nebraska follows specific insurance rules that affect accident claims:
- Minimum Required Coverage: Nebraska law requires minimum liability coverage of:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 for property damage
- Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage: Nebraska requires UM/UIM coverage of:
- $25,000 per person
- $50,000 per accident
- Modified Comparative Negligence: Nebraska follows the 50% rule—you can recover damages as long as you’re less than 50% responsible, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Statute of Limitations: You have four years from the accident date to file a lawsuit for personal injuries in Nebraska—significantly longer than many other states.
- Medical Payment Coverage: While not required, many Nebraska policies include “Med Pay” coverage (typically $1,000-$5,000) that pays medical bills regardless of fault.
Local Medical Resources for Accident Victims
We maintain relationships with top medical providers experienced in treating and documenting car accident injuries:
Emergency Care:
- Nebraska Medicine – Nebraska Medical Center
- CHI Health Bergan Mercy
- Methodist Hospital
- CHI Health Lakeside
Orthopedic Specialists:
- OrthoNebraska
- MD West ONE
- Omaha Orthopedic Clinic & Sports Medicine
Neurologists and TBI Specialists:
- Neurology Consultants of Nebraska
- Nebraska Neurosurgery Group
- UNMC Department of Neurological Sciences
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:
- Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers
- Prairie Life Physical Therapy
- Makovicka Physical Therapy
- Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital – Omaha Campus
Pain Management:
- Nebraska Spine & Pain Center
- Pain Management Specialists of Omaha
- Nebraska Medicine Pain Management
Chiropractic Care:
- Midwest Chiropractic
- Aksarben Chiropractic
- Chiropractic Health Clinic
These providers understand the documentation requirements for legal claims and often work with personal injury patients on a lien basis, meaning you can receive treatment without upfront payment.
Local Support Services
Beyond medical care, we can connect you with additional services often needed after serious accidents:
- Transportation Assistance:
- Metro Mobility Services
- zTrip Omaha (accessible vehicles)
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car (direct billing to insurance)
- Home Healthcare:
- Visiting Nurse Association of Omaha
- Right at Home Omaha
- Home Instead Senior Care
- Mental Health Support:
- Nebraska Medicine Behavioral Health
- CHI Health Behavioral Care
- Lutheran Family Services
- Vocational Rehabilitation:
- Nebraska VR (state program)
- Career Solutions
- Goodwill Industries of Omaha
Our deep roots in the Omaha community allow us to connect clients with the right resources at the right time, addressing not just the legal aspects of your case but the practical challenges of recovery as well.
- 11404 W Dodge Rd Suite 450, Omaha, NE 68154
- (402) 431-9000
About Our Attorney
Robert M. Knowles
Attorney & Partner at Knowles Law Firm
Robert has tried cases in both state and federal courts and was selected as one of the top 100 litigation lawyers in Nebraska for 2014 by the American Society of Legal Advocates. Less than 1.5 percent of lawyers nationally are selected for this recognition. He is rated AV by Martindale-Hubbell which is the highest rating an attorney can obtain. He was also selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2019 Top Rated Lawyer.
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