There were 58,992 crashes in Utah during 2022. 25,325 people were injured and 319 people lost their lives. This means there was a crash every 8.9 minutes in Utah, so you could one day be involved in a car accident while driving on Utah’s roads.
The aftermath of a car accident in Utah often involves navigating complex insurance claims, medical bills, and legal proceedings – all while you are trying to recover from any injuries sustained. For anyone living in Utah, understanding the process of expediting a car accident claim can help alleviate some of this burden.
Reporting the Accident
The first step in expediting a car accident claim in Utah is to report the incident to law enforcement if anyone was injured, killed, or there was property damage up to $2,500. Next, contact a personal injury lawyer from Monge & Associates for advice.
Seeking Medical Attention
Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial, not only for your health and recovery but also for the strength of your insurance claim. Make sure to document all doctor’s visits, treatments, and any resulting expenses. This paper trail will be essential evidence to support your claim down the line. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s best to get checked out by a medical professional to create an official record.
Gathering Evidence
Immediately after the accident, begin collecting as much evidence as you can. Take photos of the accident scene, damage to the vehicles, and any visible injuries. Ask for a copy of the police report filed at the scene. The more documentation you can give us, the stronger your case will be.
Understanding Utah’s Fault Laws
Utah follows a “modified comparative fault” system when it comes to car accidents. This means that an injured party can only recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault for the accident. If you are found to be 50% or more responsible, you will be barred from receiving any compensation. We will investigate the accident and determine the degree of fault for all parties involved. Having us on your side can help ensure you are not unfairly assigned a disproportionate amount of fault.
Filing the Claim
Once you have reported the accident, sought medical treatment, and consulted with us, it’s time to file your insurance claim. This typically involves submitting a written statement detailing the incident, as well as all supporting documentation. Your insurance company will then assign a claims adjuster to investigate the case.
Negotiating a Settlement
The claims adjuster will review the evidence and determine a settlement offer. This initial offer is often lower than what you may be entitled to. This is where having an experienced personal injury lawyer from Monge & Associates can make a big difference. We can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to get you a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages.
If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, we may recommend filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. This legal process can take longer, but may ultimately result in a higher payout.
Statute of Limitations
It’s important to be aware of Utah’s statute of limitations when it comes to car accident claims. Injured parties generally have four years to file a personal injury lawsuit. For property damage claims, the deadline is three years. Failing to take legal action within these timeframes could result in your case being dismissed.
Tips for Expediting the Process
While the car accident claims process in Utah can be complex, the following summarizes the steps you can take to help expedite it:
- Seek medical attention immediately and follow all treatment recommendations
- Gather as much evidence as possible, including photos, witness statements, and the police report
- Consider hiring a personal injury attorney to handle negotiations and protect your rights
- File your insurance claim promptly and provide all requested documentation
- Respond quickly to any requests for additional information from the insurance company
By taking these proactive measures, you can help streamline the claims process and get the compensation you deserve in a timely manner.
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Utah can be challenging, but understanding the claims process and taking the right steps can help expedite a favorable resolution. From reporting the incident to negotiating a fair settlement, having a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities can make all the difference. With diligence and the support of an experienced personal injury lawyer from Monge & Associates, you can get your life back on track as quickly as possible.
Monge & Associates has offices in 32 locations and 19 states, including Utah, Nebraska, and Virginia.
Call now for a free consultation on (888) 477-0597 if you have been hurt in an accident in Utah. We are here to help!