Salt Lake City Car Accident Lawyer

Do you need the help of a Salt Lake City car accident attorney? Call Jardine Law Offices today to explore your legal rights. Whether you’re out on the road visiting one of Utah’s spectacular national parks, heading up to the mountains to ski or bike, going to work, or just running to the grocery store, cars are a luxury most people in Utah enjoy. However, the smallest of errors can lead to a disastrous crash. From weather, to mechanical issues, or even driver error, a car crash should not be taken lightly. The resulting injuries from a motor vehicle accident can be devastating and even deadly. Interstate-80 and Interstate-15, two of Utah’s busiest freeways, are notorious for causing car accidents that lead to injuries. 

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a car crash, calling a dependable and resourceful attorney who puts your needs first can mean all the difference. Our Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can put your worries at ease while fighting for your rights.

What to Do After a Car Accident

The most common reaction when involved in a motor vehicle wreck is to get upset and panic. We advise against this because being panicked can alter your mind so that you can easily forget important details of the crash.

In the case of a car accident, the following should be done if either driver is capable of doing so:

1. Call the police: Regardless of how minor the accident may seem, authorities still need to be called to make a report. Police can collect information for you if you are unable to.
2. Seek medical attention: Some injuries may seem insignificant during the accident but will appear worse after the adrenaline has worn off. Seeking medical attention for yourself and others involved in the accident, even if you don’t feel like you’ve been injured, may save lives in the long run.
3. Exchange insurance information: When involved in an accident, always exchange insurance with the other driver. This will be helpful to you if you plan on filing a claim.
4. Write down details: Writing down the details of your accident while they’re still fresh in your mind is a great way to document the accident. Make sure to include the location of the accident, the date and time, any landmarks, and the events of the accident as you remember them.
5. Take photos of the scene: Get photos of the damage done to the vehicles involved, any damaged property, and the area surrounding the accident scene. Photo evidence can be crucial in a car accident injury case.
6. Get the contact information of witnesses: Write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of anyone who may have witnessed your accident. This vital information can be given to police officers.

One of the most important things to do after a car accident is to call an attorney to get them involved in your case right away. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in an automotive wreck that wasn’t your fault, you may need the help of a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer.

Common Injuries Suffered in Salt Lake City Car Accidents

Car accidents in Salt Lake City can lead to a wide range of injuries, many of which are serious and have lasting consequences. The forces involved in collisions, especially on busy roads like Interstate-80 and Interstate-15, can cause traumatic physical harm that requires immediate and ongoing medical attention. Understanding the types of injuries commonly sustained can help victims recognize the severity of their condition and the importance of seeking legal and medical assistance.

Common injuries suffered in Salt Lake City car accidents include:

• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries from sudden stops or rear-end collisions
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions caused by impact with the vehicle interior
• Fractures and broken bones from high-impact collisions or rollovers
• Spinal cord injuries leading to partial or complete paralysis
• Severe facial and dental trauma
• Internal bleeding and damage to vital organs
• Cuts, lacerations, and scarring from shattered glass and debris
• Pelvic fractures and other major bone injuries
• Muscle strains and sprains

A knowledgeable Salt Lake City personal injury and car accident attorney can be invaluable in guiding you through the complex legal process after a crash. They work to secure the maximum compensation you deserve, covering not only your current medical expenses but also accounting for future medical needs and ongoing care. Consulting experienced Salt Lake City car accident lawyers or a dedicated car accident lawyer Salt Lake City offers can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing the financial resources needed for your recovery.

Understanding Your Rights as a Car Accident Victim

After a car accident, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the legal protections available to you. Many victims are unaware of the full extent of their rights, which can lead to inadequate compensation for their injuries and damages. At Jardine Law Offices, we believe that knowledge is power, and we are committed to empowering our clients with information that can make a difference in their recovery process.

Here are some key rights you should know:

• Right to Seek Medical Treatment: You have the right to seek immediate medical attention for your injuries, regardless of fault. Your health should always be your top priority.
• Right to Compensation: If the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to hire a lawyer to represent your interests. An experienced attorney can help navigate the complex legal landscape and advocate on your behalf.
• Right to Privacy: You have the right to keep your personal information private. Be cautious about sharing details of your case on social media or with insurance companies without legal guidance.
• Right to a Fair Settlement: You are entitled to a fair settlement that reflects the true cost of your injuries and losses. Don’t accept the first offer from an insurance company without consulting a lawyer.

Understanding these rights can significantly impact the outcome of your case. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, our dedicated team at Jardine Law Offices is here to help you navigate the complexities of your situation and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.

What Types of Damages Can be Recovered in a Car Accident Claim?

When pursuing a car accident claim, victims may be entitled to various types of damages. These can include:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for past, present, and future medical bills related to the injuries sustained in the accident, including hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for the income lost due to the inability to work during the recovery period. This includes both current and future lost wages or diminished earning capacity caused by the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages to compensate for physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and the overall impact the accident has had on the victim’s quality of life.
• Property Damage: Coverage for the repair or replacement of the damaged vehicle and any other personal property that was affected in the accident, such as electronic devices or valuable belongings.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the negative impact the injuries have on the victim’s relationship with their spouse, including loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy.
• Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence, willful misconduct, or reckless behavior, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar conduct in the future.
• Wrongful Death Damages: If the accident results in the loss of a loved one, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

It’s important to note that the specific damages recoverable in a car accident claim can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Consulting with a knowledgeable Salt Lake City car accident attorney is crucial to understanding your rights and maximizing the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Utah

Even the most careful and defensive drivers are unable to control the actions of others while on the road. In 2019, 64,597 crashes occurred in Utah, injuring 26,801 and killing 248. What could be the cause of these astonishing numbers? Many different elements can lead to a catastrophic motor vehicle wreck, including weather, driver negligence, and numerous other causes. 

Some of the most common causes of car accidents include:

• Distracted driving: With technology constantly changing our lives, it’s no wonder that distracted driving is one of the top contributors to car accidents every year in the United States. Texting while driving and talking on the phone are the two most common distractions to drivers on the road.
• Driving under the influence: The federal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. However, it is discouraged for anyone who drinks to get behind the wheel. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in hefty fines and cost an innocent person’s life.
• Obstacles in the road: Fallen trees, boulders, and wildlife in the road can cause drivers to swerve and hit other vehicles or objects.
• Inclement weather: Rain, snow, thunderstorms, and dangerous weather can make driving difficult for anyone. Inclement weather has the potential to make roads slick, and high winds can force vehicles off the road.
• Speeding: Speed limits are set in certain areas for a reason, whether in a residential area or on curvy roads. Going over the speed limit will greatly increase an individual’s chance of a wreck.
• Mechanical failures: All parts of a vehicle need to work properly to keep the driver and passengers safe. Having and maintaining a maintenance schedule to ensure that fluids are at the proper levels and that all parts are working correctly will greatly decrease the chances of an accident.
• Road conditions: Inclement weather, construction zones, or dirt and gravel roads can all pose a serious threat to drivers and their vehicles. Loose gravel on dirt roads can shift underneath a car’s tires and cause the car to slip or become unstable.

If your or your loved one’s automotive wreck was at the fault of another driver, contact our Salt Lake City car accident attorneys. Our dedicated team understands the complications and stress that being injured in an accident can cause for you and your family.

The Many Different Types of Automotive Accidents

• Multiple-vehicle crashes: More than two vehicles will often be involved in a car crash. These types of accidents typically occur on the interstates when weather conditions impair a driver’s ability to slow down or stop. Accidents involving multiple vehicles can result in several serious injuries or fatalities.
• Head-on collisions: This type of accident happens when two vehicles traveling in the opposite direction collide. The front end of one vehicle comes in contact with the front end of the other vehicle involved in the accident.
• Rear-end collisions: When drivers cannot slow down or stop their vehicle in the event of an emergency, they can collide with the vehicle in front of them. This is a rear-end accident. The results could be catastrophic depending on the speed at which the accident occurs.
• Rollovers: Sometimes, drivers will take a curve too quickly or slip on slick roads, and the force will send their vehicle off the road and cause it to roll. Vehicles with a higher center of gravity (like semi-trucks) will have a greater chance of rolling over than passenger vehicles.
• T-bones: These accidents happen when the front end of one vehicle collides with the side of another in an intersection, forming a “T” at the point of impact. The most common cause of a T-bone accident is a driver’s failure to comply with stop signs or traffic signals.
• Hit and run: Car accidents are very scary and can happen at any given moment without warning. Some drivers can get involved in an accident and leave out of fear. Fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal, but unfortunately, this practice is more common than we think.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident in Utah?

In Utah, the statute of limitations for a car accident is four years. This means that any civil action related to the car accident must be brought to court within four years from the date of the incident. If a lawsuit is not filed within this time limit, it is likely to be dismissed by the court and could result in waiving all rights to compensation. Therefore, anyone involved in a car accident must take prompt action to ensure they can receive the necessary compensation and recover from their losses.

Utah Car Insurance Requirements & Age Limits

As with every state, Utah laws have certain requirements that all motorists must have as part of their insurance policies. All Utah drivers must provide proof of insurance to any law enforcement officer upon request. 

The minimum car insurance coverage requirements for drivers in the state of Utah are:

• Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person and $65,000 per accident
• Personal injury protection: $3,000 per accident
• Property damage liability: $15,000 per accident
• Underinsured motorist: $25,000 per person and $65,000 per accident
• Uninsured motorist: $25,000 per person and $65,000 per accident

Driving age limits all depend on the state. Some states, like New York, require teens to be 16 to be able to drive, while others, like Pennsylvania, allow drivers as young as 15. At the age of 15, teens in Utah are eligible for a learner’s permit, allowing them to drive with an instructor or a licensed parent.

Teens, at the age of 16, can apply to get their driver’s license, as long as they have had their learner’s permit for at least 60 days and have had 40 hours of instructed driving. Utah laws have restricted any teen under the age of 17, whether with a learner’s permit or driver’s license, from driving between midnight and 5 a.m. Certain conditions may be an exception to this law, like work hours or commutes to school.

Even if you have the minimum required insurance policy on your vehicle, it may not mean your car repairs will be paid for. Insurance companies have different rules and regulations for each policy and its holders. An adjuster will look at your case and see the best direction for the company to go. Not always does a totaled car mean they will give you a payout to cover the cost of a new one. Even if your accident involves another driver, don’t always assume they are insured.

Is It worth Hiring a Lawyer for a Car Accident Claim?

Hiring a lawyer after being seriously injured in a car accident can provide a range of invaluable benefits. At Jardine Law Offices, our skilled attorneys can help navigate the complex legal processes involved in personal injury claims. We have the knowledge and experience to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and establish liability, ensuring that you have the best chance of receiving fair compensation. 

Our team of lawyers are also well-versed in insurance company tactics and can negotiate with them on your behalf, preventing you from being unfairly pressured into accepting a low settlement. This not only eases the burden on you during your recovery but also maximizes your chances of obtaining the financial resources necessary to cover medical bills, lost income, and other damages resulting from the accident.

How Our Salt Lake City Car Accident Lawyers Can Help

When it comes to navigating the complexities of a car accident claim, having the right legal team by your side can make all the difference. At Jardine Law Offices, we pride ourselves on our extensive experience and commitment to our clients in Farmington and the surrounding areas. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Personalized Attention: Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand your individual circumstances, ensuring that your specific needs are met.
• Proven Track Record: Our firm has successfully represented numerous clients, securing fair compensation for their injuries and losses. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights.
• Expertise in Negotiation: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Our skilled negotiators are adept at dealing with these entities to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Contingency Fee Basis: We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case. This alleviates the financial burden during a challenging time.
• Comprehensive Support: From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we provide ongoing support and guidance, helping you navigate the legal process with confidence.

Choosing the right attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Let Jardine Law Offices be your trusted partner in seeking justice and compensation for your car accident injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation!

Salt Lake City Car Accident FAQs

Why should I hire a car accident lawyer in Salt Lake City after a collision?

A knowledgeable car accident lawyer Salt Lake City residents rely on can guide you through the complex legal process, help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and work to secure the maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.

How do Salt Lake City car accident lawyers help with my claim?

Salt Lake City auto accident attorneys thoroughly review your case, communicate with insurers, and ensure your claim accounts for both immediate and long-term impacts of the accident. Their goal is to get a fair settlement that covers current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation, and other damages.

What types of compensation can I receive from a car accident claim in Salt Lake City?

Compensation can include payment for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent disabilities, property damage, and future medical care related to your injuries.

How soon should I contact a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer after my accident?

It’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. Early legal guidance can help protect your rights, ensure critical evidence is preserved, and support you throughout the claims process.

Is there a time limit to file a car accident lawsuit in Salt Lake City?

Yes, Utah has a statute of limitations that typically requires you to file a personal injury lawsuit within four years from the date of the accident. However, consulting with a Salt Lake City auto accident attorney early ensures you meet all deadlines and preserve your legal options.

How long does it usually take to receive compensation after a car accident in Salt Lake City?

The timeline to receive compensation can vary widely depending on case complexity, severity of injuries, and negotiations with insurance companies. Generally, settlements may take anywhere from around 6 months to over a year. Cases with clear liability and less severe injuries might resolve faster, while complex cases involving serious injuries or disputes may take longer, especially if they go to trial.

How much compensation can I expect from a car accident claim in Salt Lake City?

Compensation amounts vary widely based on the severity of injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical care needs. Settlements can cover current and future medical bills, lost income, emotional distress, permanent disabilities, and property damage. An attorney can help assess your case to estimate a fair compensation amount based on all damages related to your accident.