Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bozeman

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bozeman, Montana?

  406-582-2000 is the non-emergency phone line of the Bozeman Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Bozeman, Montana?

  A copy of your Bozeman car accident police report can be obtained in person, by mail, or by email. The Gallatin County Records Department, a division of the Gallatin County 911 Communications Department, maintains all Bozeman Police Department records. Its phone number is 582-2005, and the office is available seven days a week from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., except on holidays.

• What is the time limit for filing a car accident claim in Bozeman?

  The statute of limitations for filing Bozeman car accident claims is three years from the date an injury occurs. Additionally, insurance companies in Montana demand that claims be filed a day or two after they happen. If an auto accident is not reported to the insurance company within the required time, a claim may be postponed or rejected entirely.

• What should you bring to your initial consultation with a Bozeman car accident lawyer?

  You should bring all documents related to your Bozeman car accident, including:

  • documents provided by law enforcement
  • accident reports
  • estimates and receipts for property damage
  • medical bills and records
  • receipts for out-of-pocket expenses
  • correspondence received from an insurance company
  • a duplicate of personal car insurance policy
  • a copy of your health insurance card

• What are the most common causes of automobile accidents in Bozeman?

  Some of the most typical causes of car accidents in Bozeman are as follows:

  • tailgating or following a vehicle in front of you too closely
  • failing to yield the right of way at stop signs or lights
  • driving while intoxicated by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two
  • speeding or failing to slow down in difficult traffic or weather conditions
  • distracted driving, such as texting, checking messages or using an infotainment system while driving

• What should you do if your own insurance company demands payment after your Bozeman car accident?

  This happens when you have insurance benefits other than those provided by your own insurance company. According to Montana law, your insurance company may seek reimbursement only if you have been fully compensated for your injuries, including attorney fees and costs. This rule is within the scope of the law that requires that innocent accident victims be "made whole" before their own insurance company can refuse to pay insurance benefits due to the availability of other insurance benefits.

• What can you do if an uninsured driver hits you in a Bozeman car accident?

  If a driver without insurance hits you in a car accident in Bozeman, you may be able to get money from your own insurance policy. Every driver in Montana must have at least $25,000 in bodily injury liability insurance. A car accident lawyer can aid you in searching for available insurance policies, including any additional insurance the negligent driver may have had.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.