Best Car Accident Lawyers in Casper

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Casper Police Department is (307) 235-8278.

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

  You can get a copy of the accident report by making a request at https://casperpolice.org/online-records-request/. You can also acquire the document in person at 201 North David St., 82601. The office is open Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Fees range from $3 to $5, while videos are priced at $25. Note that documents not picked up within 30 days of the request will be destroyed.

• Who is liable in a car accident involving animals in Casper?

  The Casper car accident victim's insurance provider may be liable for damages under a comprehensive coverage policy if the animal is not domesticated. However, if the animal is domesticated, its owner can be responsible for the accident. Their liability might be limited if the accident happened due to unforeseen circumstances, like a horse jumping over a boundary fence and colliding with a motorist. Casper residents should remain cautious while traversing the state's roadways; Wyoming ranks among the top 10 nationwide in highest odds of animal collisions.

• What damages can families receive from liable parties in a Casper car accident involving a juvenile driver?

  Families can obtain economic damages that help them cover lost wages, medical expenses, and funeral bills. They can also acquire non-economic and punitive damages that allow them to manage costs related to mental anguish. Under Wyoming law, caps for the damages that a family may receive from at-fault parties are prohibited explicitly unless one of the defendants is a government entity. Casper motorists should be aware that their state ranks second to last in teen driver safety nationwide, according to an analysis by WalletHub.

• What are some of the most dangerous intersections in Casper, especially during winter?

  • McKinley Street and 15th Street. The y intersection might be intimidating for Casper drivers, particularly in snowy conditions.
  • Beverly Street and 12th Street. Motorists should be cautious of this downtown area, which runs near buildings like fire stations, restaurants, assisted living facilities, and convenience stores.
  • Conwell Street and 2nd Street. Drivers from 2nd St. might not see cars on Conwell St. as a large medical center obstructs views.

  Casper motorists should exercise prudence when traveling in the snowy season, which lasts around seven months.

• Can a Casper resident file a claim against park departments for car accident-related injuries?

  Yes. Individuals seeking legal action against park departments can do so under the Federal Tort Claim Act. However, they should note that they have a higher chance of receiving a rejection compared to lawsuits against private parties. Wyoming laws also cap the damages people can receive from governmental entities in a single incident, between $250,000 for a single person and $500,000 for a group of people.

• What defective auto parts can contribute to a rollover crash in Casper?

  Some car parts could fail, causing a rollover crash in a Casper roadway. These components include brakes, tires, and ignition switches. A vehicle can also crash because of a defective fuel system; a sudden stall on a high-volume road increases the chances of accidents. Another way a car can flip is due to a bad design; older model SUVs are notorious for having a high center of gravity that escalates the chances of rollovers.

• 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.