Best Car Accident Lawyers in Great Falls, MT

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact information of the Great Falls Police Department is 406-455-8599.

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

  To obtain a copy of your accident report, you or your insurer may call the City Attorney's Office at 406-455-8535. However, the report will not be released without a subpoena for car crashes that resulted in death.

• Who should compensate for your damages if you are met with an accident in Great Falls due to unsafe driving conditions?

  If you were in a car accident in Great Falls due to unsafe driving conditions, such as poorly maintained roads, missing guardrails, and improper signage, you might be compensated by your local municipality and government agencies as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. To receive compensation from these entities, you will have to prove their negligence.

• How common are car accidents in Great Falls?

  According to the recent crash data compiled by the Montana Department of Transportation, there were 2,988 car crashes in Great Falls in 2020. Three of these collisions resulted in fatalities, while 11 resulted in serious injuries. The city contributed 7.44% of all car crashes in the state and 76.14% of all accidents in Cascade County in the same year.

• What kind of damages can you receive as an injured passenger of a taxi cab in Great Falls?

  As an injured passenger in a taxi cab or other ridesharing vehicles such as Uber or Lyft, you can file a claim in Great Falls for economic damages such as medical care costs and lost earnings, as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering and diminished enjoyment of life. You may be able to recover compensation from the driver of the car, the taxi or ridesharing company, other passengers in the vehicle who caused the accident, or another motorist.

• What is the most common cause of car accidents in Great Falls?

  According to the Montana Department of Transportation crash report, in 2020, 41.5% of the 2,988 car crashes in Great Falls involved inattentive, distracted, and careless motorists. Seven percent of all accidents involved drivers operating their cars while impaired with drugs or alcohol, while 10% factor in the speed of the vehicles when the accident occurred.

• How much time do you have left to file for a car accident claim in Great Falls?

  If you were involved and sustained injuries in a car accident in Great Falls, you have three years from the date of the accident or the date of death, to file a claim for compensation in Montana's civil courts, according to Montana Code section 27-2-204. Meanwhile, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a claim compensating for the damage to your property, such as your vehicle or other belongings.

• 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.