Best Car Accident Lawyers in Salt Lake City

FAQs

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

  (801) 799-3000 is the non-emergency contact number for Salt Lake City.

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

  Motor vehicle accident reports can be obtained by filling out a public record request form and submitting it either in person at Service Desk in the lobby of Salt Lake City Police Department, located at 475 South 300 East Salt Lake City, UT 84111, or through their online police reporting system at https://www.slcpd.com/resources/online-report/

• How do car accident victims in Salt Lake City collect their compensatory damages?

  Accident victims in Salt Lake City have the option of filing claims with both their own insurance provider and the provider of the at-fault party. Utah is a no-fault auto insurance state, so regardless of who caused the collision, both parties must file a claim under their own personal injury protection coverage. Plaintiffs must make a claim with their own; however, there are circumstances that are exempt from this rule, including medical costs that exceed $3,000 and permanent disfigurement.

• How long do Salt Lake City car wreck victims have to file a claim?

  Individuals in Salt Lake City who sustained bodily injuries from motor vehicle accidents have four years starting from the occurrence date to initiate a lawsuit against the at-fault party, according to Utah Code Section 78B-2-307. Those who suffered property loss or vehicle damage have three years from the date of the automobile accident to file a claim as per Utah Code 78B-2-305.

• Who may be at-fault in a t-bone accident in Salt Lake City?

  T-bone collisions in Salt Lake City may include numerous responsible parties. Among them are the car manufacturer, the careless driver, and other motorists who were not directly involved in the crash. However, Utah has a comparative negligence system, which means that plaintiffs proven to be 49% to blame or less will get a partial damage award, while those who are 50% at fault or more will not be entitled to any compensation for the accident.

• What are the most car-accident-prone roads in Salt Lake City?

  The majority of deadly vehicle accidents in Salt Lake City occur on the 3900 South, 300 West, and 600 West. North Temple Street, Foothill Drive, 1300 East, Snowbird Center, 900 South, and SR 68 are also common sites of car accidents.

• How much is the cost of hiring a Salt Lake City car collision lawyer?

  Depending on the complexity of the case, the majority of Salt Lake City automobile accident attorneys charge between 33% and 40% of the entire claim. For instance, a client who received a $100,000 settlement must pay between $33,000 and $40,000 to their Salt Lake City auto accident lawyer. Most lawyers, however, operate on a contingency basis, which means that they only bill the client if they are successful.

• 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.