Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lehi

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for Lehi City Police Department is (385) 201-1005.

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

  To get a copy of the police report for the accident in Lehi, fill out the GRAMA Report Request Form. Download the form from here: https://www.lehi-ut.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/GRAMA-Report-Request-Form.pdf. You can mail or drop off the form in person at the Lehi City Police Department at 128 North 100 East or fax it to (385) 201-1006.

• What should you do if you were involved in a leased car accident in Lehi?

  If you are not at fault for a leased car accident in Lehi, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance and also bring a lawsuit to court. If you are the at-fault driver, you will need to file a claim against your personal collision or comprehensive coverage. If your personal insurance is not enough, GAP (Guaranteed Asset Protection) insurance can cover the difference. That is why it's important to know if the car leasing company offers GAP insurance before leasing a vehicle.

• Are drivers in Lehi required to have insurance?

  In Utah, car insurance is a legal requirement. This means that as a driver in Lehi, you have to carry at least 25/65/15 liability insurance, which includes $15,000 in property damage coverage per accident, $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, and $65,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident. Additionally, drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which enables them to receive benefits even if they cause a car accident.

• How does PIP insurance work in Lehi?

  PIP, or personal injury protection, is insurance that covers medical costs, lost income, and other related expenses if you are injured in an auto accident in Lehi, regardless of whoever is at fault for the accident. PIP benefits are paid within 30 days of making a claim. If you are not at fault for the car accident, the insurance company of the at-fault driver reimburses your insurance company for all the PIP benefits paid to you.

• Who will pay for your medical expenses as a result of a car accident in Lehi?

  Utah is a no-fault state. This means that if you were involved in a car accident in Lehi, your personal auto insurance provider would pay some or all of your medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. The insurance provider will only cover you up to your existing policy limit. If the limit has been reached, you can turn to your personal health insurance provider. Liens are also a great option if you don’t have health insurance. Of course, you can definitely get money from the at-fault driver’s car insurance.

• What are the statutes of limitations for car accident cases in Lehi?

  If you've been injured in a car crash in Lehi, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury case. If you were not injured and only sustained personal property damage, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If the accident resulted in a loved one's death, you have two years from the date of the victim’s death to file a wrongful death claim. You also have a one-year deadline if you are filing against local entities and two years against state entities.

• 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.