Best Car Accident Lawyers in Fargo, ND

FAQs

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

  The Fargo Police Department is reachable at 701-235-4493 for non-emergency calls.

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

  The North Dakota Highway Patrol maintains car accident records for incidents in Fargo and is located at 600 E Blvd Ave, Dept 504, Bismarck, ND 58505. Requests are processed online, and the mail-in option has been discontinued.

• What are the reporting requirements in Fargo if I am involved in a car accident?

  If you are involved in a car accident in Fargo, you are required to report the incident if anyone involved suffers pain or death, any one of the drivers was high or drunk, city property was damaged, a party has fled the scene without leaving contact info or checking out the victims, and if the damage is valued at $4,000 or more. Non-compliance is a criminal offense.

• What are punitive damages, and when can a car accident victim in Fargo ask for these?

  Under the state law applied in Fargo, punitive damages are levied against parties when they exhibit an extreme disregard for a victim's safety or who act with a deliberate intent to hurt others. These are analogous to fines in criminal law and are meant to discourage extremely detrimental behavior. When deliberate intent or gross negligence is apparent, punitive damages must be explicitly demanded in the pleadings.

• Do car accident victims in Fargo have to go to court to receive restitution?

  Not necessarily, car accident matters in Fargo are generally settled out of court at the mediation proceeding or negotiating table. It is still wise to seek a lawyer and prepare for trial, as insurance companies are likely to delay the settlement process and downplay the extent of the claimant's injuries.

• How much time does a car accident victim in Fargo have to bring a case to court?

  A car accident victim in Fargo must follow the statute of limitations in North Dakota, which generally sets a six-year deadline for bringing personal injury and property damage suits to court. If a wrongful death is involved, the period is set at two years after the victim passed. If one wishes to sue the government, a notice of claim must be sent 18 days after an incident.

• What are the common causes of car crashes in Fargo?

  Car crashes in Fargo usually happen when a driver is negligent and moves beyond the speed limit, violates intersections and lane rules, and gets behind the wheel while drunk. Accidents also happen when a highway is poorly maintained because the government failed to fix potholes and hazards. Parts makers may also be at fault when their components are faulty and fail while the car is running.

• 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.