Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bountiful

FAQs

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

  Contact the Bountiful City Police Department for non-emergency inquiries at 801-298-6000.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report for the accident by filling out the request form at https://www.bountifulcitypd.com/file/1b0d2b2f-3f71-4622-9f20-68352fcd352d. You can submit it through mail or in person at the Bountiful City Police Department office, located at 805 South Main Street, Bountiful, Utah 84010. In addition, you can make an online record request by completing the https://docs.google.com/forms/d/10WTm2QryDxw6gGqr0Am-H-I F8yhE0DdpBRk4mCEq8s/viewform?edit requested=true. For further information, don't hesitate to contact the Records Division at 801-298-6056 or policerecords@bountifulutah.gov.

• How are settlement amounts for car accidents in Bountiful determined?

  In Bountiful, car accident settlement amounts are based on factors such as the extent of the damage and the severity of the injuries sustained in order to calculate how much the claimant will need to cover their medical expenses, car repairs, and lost wages. The amount of fault or negligence committed by each driver and the amount of their insurance coverage will also be used to determine which claimant's settlement amount is greater, equal, or less than the other.

• Is it required to have car insurance in Bountiful?

  Yes. Bountiful drivers must follow Utah Code Section 31A-22-304, which requires motor vehicle operators to carry a minimum insurance liability coverage ratio of $25,000/$65,000/$15,000. In the event of a car accident, your bodily injury limits are $25,000 per person, up to a total of $65,000 per incident. It also provides up to $15,000 in coverage for damage to another person's property. In addition, you must have $3,000 in personal injury protection insurance.

• What factors influence the pain and suffering settlement value in a Bountiful car accident?

  In Bountiful, car accident claims for pain and suffering settlement will typically rely on factors such as medical records and expert testimony, as the severity of your injuries is determined solely by your doctor's diagnosis. The claim is also measured subjectively and is influenced by your personal disposition. To speak of and recover your compensation needs, you must demonstrate consistency and credibility when testifying about your pain and suffering.

• Why should you settle your car accident claim in Bountiful without going to court?

  You would prefer to avoid the stress of having to appear in court on occasion and pay legal fees. These costs include the attorney's fees, expert witness fees, pre-litigation and court expenses, and travel expenses, all of which are likely to be significantly higher than when you settle your car accident claim in Bountiful. In addition, you can get results faster and with greater certainty than in a trial. Settlements will also benefit those who prefer to remain private and are concerned about a public record of negligence or wrongdoing.

• Can you be held liable in a car accident claim in Bountiful if you have installed car modifications?

  Yes, you can be held partially or entirely responsible, especially if your car modifications violate state laws. The Bountiful car accident claim involving car modification issues will be handled in accordance with Utah Code Title 78B. Judicial Code § 78B-5-819. This doctrine states that your degree of fault cannot be less than 50% in order to receive compensation. Illegal vehicle modifications include installing a lift block as a front suspension change or tinting your windshield below the AS-1 line.

• 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.