Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bismarck, ND

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Bismarck, North Dakota?

  701-223-1212 is the non-emergency contact number of the Bismarck Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Bismarck, North Dakota?

  You can get a copy of the police report at the police records' office, located at 700 S 9th Street, Bismarck, ND 58504.

• Who are the parties entitled to damages in a wrongful death suit from a car accident in Bismarck?

  When car accidents happen in Bismarck and result in the death of the victim, the parties entitled to pursue a wrongful death suit are the immediate family of the deceased under family and inheritance law. The order of preference is as follows: the surviving spouse, the children, the departed's parents, and then the victim's grandparents. If none of these family members exist, a personal representative has cause to sue.

• What are the usual reasons behind car accidents in Bismarck?

  Car accidents in Bismarck usually happen because of drunk and drugged driving, which impairs the senses and reaction time of motorists. A driver may be drowsy and completely fall asleep on the road. Being distracted behind the wheel is also a risk factor as human brains are not wired to juggle the cognitive and motor demands of texting and driving at the same time.

• If the other driver's insurance company calls you after a car crash in Bismarck, what should you do?

  If the other driver's insurance company calls you after a car crash in Bismarck, do not say anything. Refrain from speaking to employees and adjusters and instead get in touch with an attorney. The insurer's game is to squeeze a quick and inadequate settlement out of the victim while the latter is vulnerable. The settlement can damage future lawsuits and contain damaging admissions or quitclaims.

• What pieces of evidence do car accident lawyers in Bismarck use to support a personal injury claim?

  Lawyers in Bismarck who help people who have been hurt in car accidents gather a lot of written and verbal evidence to support a personal injury claim. Evidence like photos, medical records, and police statements show how the injuries happened, how bad they are, and how much they cost. Eyewitness accounts are important because they show things that the victim might not have seen right away.

• What is your recourse if you cannot afford to hire a car accident lawyer in Bismarck?

  If you cannot afford a car accident lawyer in Bismarck, you may look for one who accepts payment on a contingency basis. It is common for personal injury and motor vehicle tort lawyers to charge no upfront fees and instead demand a percentage of the negotiated settlement or judicial award. This reduces your financial risk since nothing is owed to the attorney should you lose.

• 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.