Best Car Accident Lawyers in Missoula

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Missoula police station is (406) 552-6300.

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

  You can request for a copy of a Missoula police accident report by calling 406-552-6303. Under normal circumstances, it can become available within seven to 10 days from the request date.

• How many vehicular crashes occur in Missoula each year?

  The police department of Missoula responds to around 1,800 reported crashes each year. Fourteen percent of these are related to alcohol, correlating with the national and state average. The department has prioritized traffic and DUI enforcement since 2003 and increased DUI arrests up to 1,026 from a low of 358 within nine years.

• What are the penalties for a hit-and-run case in Missoula?

  The highest penalty for a hit-and-run driver in Missoula, according to Montana law, is a 50,000-dollar fine, a 10-year prison sentence, and driver’s license revocation, if death or serious injuries are involved. Less serious injuries may mean a 5,000-dollar fine and a maximum of one year jail time. First-time offenders involving no injuries could mean a fine of 300 dollars and a maximum of 20 days in jail. Subsequent convictions equal six months in jail and a 500-dollar fine.

• What are most serious and significant types of crashes that occur in Missoula?

  In Montana, where Missoula is located, the crashes with the most serious injuries and fatalities are roadway departure accidents involving single vehicles. Most of the fatality victims in these crashes are unrestrained vehicle occupants. In rollover crashes, among the greatest concerns involved occupants being ejected. These victims have a four-fold likelihood of incurring fatal injuries as compared to victims who remained restrained within their vehicle.

• Where do most fatal crashes occur in Missoula?

  Astonishingly, nine out of 10 crashes with fatalities in Montana, where Missoula is located, occur on rural roadways. However, the various types of crashes occurring in the region are distributed evenly between urban and rural roadways. The high proportion of high-speed vehicular miles of travel on low-volume rural roads is a critical issue of traffic safety in this area.

• What is the statute of limitations regarding the filing of personal injury cases in Missoula?

  What is the statute of limitations regarding the filing of personal injury cases in Missoula? Montana tort law, which encompasses Missoula, states that the plaintiff should file the personal injury claim case within three years of their injury. Underage minors are an exception to this rule; the statute of limitations in their case does not begin until the plaintiff reaches 18 years of age. Thus, if a child incurred an injury on their 10th birthday, their parents have 11 years to file their claim.

• 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.