If you’ve been involved in a serious car accident, the impact can be life-changing, resulting in injuries and fatalities, extensive property damage, and the need for costly medical treatment. At Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, our experienced Salt Lake City car accident lawyers understand the challenges victims face, from mounting medical bills to lost wages and dealing with insurance companies.
We have successfully handled numerous motor vehicle accidents, securing favorable client case results and earning strong client testimonials.
Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the maximum compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery. A Salt Lake City car accident lawyer at Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers will handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if necessary.
We understand how devastating a car accident can be, and we are committed to helping you secure compensation for your damages. With a proven track record of success and strong client testimonials, our local Salt Lake City law firm is ready to advocate for your rights and help you move forward after a serious crash. Call us today at (801) 810-9999.
What Makes Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers the Right Choice in Salt Lake City?
When you need a trusted advocate after a serious accident, Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers can help. Our firm provides dedicated legal representation to personal injury victims across Salt Lake City, offering personalized service and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome in every case.
Brigham Richards, the lead attorney at Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, is a skilled legal advocate with a strong track record in insurance claims negotiation and litigation. Brigham’s legal career is rooted in responsibility and meticulous attention to detail. He takes great pride in delivering exceptional results and treating every client as his top priority as a trusted, local Salt Lake City personal injury attorney.
Whether you’re dealing with medical expenses, lost income, or insurance disputes, our local team of car accident experts is ready to guide you through the legal process. Our Salt Lake City car accident law firm proudly assists clients in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and support every step of the way.
How Will a Salt Lake City Car Accident Attorney Help Me?
If you’ve been injured in a car crash, working with an experienced Salt Lake City car accident attorney can make a significant difference in your case. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, having legal representation ensures your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of securing fair compensation.
At Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process with personalized support.
Build Your Case
A strong case starts with solid evidence. Your Salt Lake City car accident lawyer will investigate the accident, collect crucial documentation such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements, and work with experts if needed to establish fault and the extent of your injuries. This thorough approach strengthens your claim and positions you for the best possible outcome.
Negotiate With Insurance
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often aim to minimize payouts. A skilled Salt Lake City car accident lawyer will handle all communications with insurers, ensuring that your claim is accurately valued and that you are not pressured into accepting a low settlement. Our firm has extensive experience in negotiating fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Provide Legal Guidance & Support
Understanding your legal options can be overwhelming after an accident. Your attorney will explain your rights, keep you informed about the progress of your case, and provide the support you need to make confident decisions. Whether your case is resolved through negotiation or litigation, having an experienced Salt Lake City car accident lawyer by your side gives you peace of mind and the best chance at a successful resolution.
If you’ve been injured in a collision, don’t face the process alone. Contact Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers today to discuss your case with a dedicated Salt Lake City car accident attorney.
Utah Car Accident Laws
Understanding Utah’s car accident laws is essential for all drivers in the state. Key areas to be aware of include insurance requirements and the procedures for reporting accidents to law enforcement.
Insurance Laws
In Utah, all drivers are required to carry minimum liability insurance coverage to operate a vehicle legally. The mandatory minimum insurance coverage amounts are:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person and $65,000 per accident involving two or more persons.
- Property Damage Liability: $15,000 per accident.
Additionally, Utah operates under a “no-fault” insurance system. This means that after an accident, your own insurance policy’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical expenses up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault.
According to the Utah Insurance Department, each person injured in an accident must first submit their claim to the insurance company covering their vehicle. The first $3,000 in medical expenses will be covered by your policy under PIP before you can file a claim with the responsible insurer.
Reporting Your Car Accident to the Police
Utah law specifies the circumstances under which a car accident must be reported to law enforcement. The operator of a vehicle involved in an accident is required to immediately notify the nearest law enforcement agency if the accident results in property damage to an apparent extent of $2,500 or more, injury, or death.
Failing to report such accidents can lead to legal consequences, including fines and potential suspension of your driver’s license. It’s crucial to promptly inform law enforcement to comply with state laws and ensure accurate documentation of the incident.
By adhering to these insurance and reporting laws, drivers in Utah can navigate the aftermath of car accidents more effectively and within legal parameters.
Salt Lake City Insurance Claims
Navigating the insurance claims process after a car accident in Salt Lake City can be complex. Understanding the proper procedures and knowing your rights can help ensure a smoother experience.
Filing an Insurance Claim After a Car Wreck
After an auto accident, you have the option to file a claim with either your own insurance company (a “first-party” claim) or with the other driver’s insurance company (a “third-party” claim).
Steps to Follow
- Report the Accident: Immediately notify your insurance company about the accident. Provide them with all relevant details, including the names, addresses, and contact information of all parties involved, as well as any witnesses.
- Gather Documentation: Collect and maintain records such as your Salt Lake City police report, medical records, and repair estimates. This documentation will support your claim and help establish the extent of damages and injuries.
- Understand Coverage: Utah law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance. Additionally, Utah operates under a “no-fault” system, meaning your own insurance policy’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will pay for your medical expenses up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault.
- Cooperate with the Insurance Adjuster: Be prepared to discuss the details of the accident with the insurance adjuster. Provide truthful and accurate information to facilitate the evaluation of your claim.
- Review Settlement Offers Carefully: Before accepting any settlement, ensure that it adequately covers your medical expenses, property damage, and other related costs. Once a settlement is accepted, you may waive your right to pursue additional compensation.
A Salt Lake City Car Accident Lawyer Who Can Handle the Insurance Company
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when you’re recovering from injuries. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims. An experienced Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can advocate on your behalf, handle communications with the insurance company, and work to secure a fair settlement.
Benefits of Legal Representation
- Expert Negotiation: Our Salt Lake City car accident attorneys are skilled in negotiating with insurance companies to seek fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
- Legal Guidance: A lawyer can help you understand your rights and the legal processes involved in your claim.
- Comprehensive Case Management: From gathering evidence to representing you in court if necessary, an attorney manages all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on recovery.
By understanding the insurance claims process and seeking professional legal assistance, you can better navigate the aftermath of a car accident in Salt Lake City.
How Will I Pay My Medical Bills After an Accident?
Experiencing a car accident can lead to significant medical expenses. Understanding the avenues available to cover these costs is crucial for your financial well-being. Our team of Salt Lake City car accident lawyers understands the challenges, from mounting medical bills, to lost wages, to pain and suffering.
Who Is Responsible for Paying Medical Bills After an Accident?
In Utah, a no-fault insurance state, your own auto insurance policy is primarily responsible for covering initial medical expenses through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. This means that regardless of who caused the accident, your insurance will pay for your medical bills up to the PIP limit.
Health Insurance Coverage Options
Once your PIP benefits are exhausted, your health insurance can help cover additional medical expenses. It’s important to inform your health insurance provider about the accident and provide necessary documentation to ensure coverage. Be aware that you may still be responsible for co-pays, deductibles, or services not covered under your health plan.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) & Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage
PIP coverage is mandatory in Utah and provides a minimum of $3,000 per person for medical expenses resulting from a car accident. PIP may also cover a portion of lost wages and essential services. MedPay, on the other hand, is optional coverage that can help pay for medical costs not covered by PIP or health insurance. Unlike PIP, MedPay does not cover lost wages or other non-medical expenses.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but knowing what steps to take after your car crashes can protect your health, legal rights, and potential compensation. The moments immediately following a crash are critical for ensuring your safety, documenting evidence, and laying the groundwork for a strong insurance claim or legal case.
Whether you’ve suffered injuries, property damage, or financial losses, taking the right actions can make a significant difference in your recovery. Below are the essential steps to follow after a car accident in Salt Lake City.
Check for Injuries, Remain at the Scene, and Wait for the Police
If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance. Staying at the scene is legally required in Utah and ensures that law enforcement can document the accident properly.
Leaving the scene prematurely could result in legal consequences, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. While waiting for the police, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and, if it’s safe, move to the side of the road to prevent further accidents.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is critical. Some injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding, may not present symptoms right away but can worsen over time.
A medical evaluation creates an official record of your injuries, which can be important for both your recovery and any legal claims you may pursue. Additionally, following your doctor’s treatment plan and attending all follow-up appointments helps demonstrate the seriousness of your injuries and prevents insurance companies from downplaying your condition.
Take Photos of the Accident Scene and Your Vehicle
Taking photos of the accident scene is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your claim. Clear, detailed pictures provide crucial evidence that can help establish fault and document the extent of vehicle damage, road conditions, weather, and any visible injuries. These images can prevent disputes about what happened and counter any false claims made by the other driver or their insurance company.
Photos of skid marks, traffic signs, or vehicle positions can provide accident reconstruction experts with valuable information if further investigation is needed. The more visual evidence you collect, the stronger your case will be when negotiating with insurers or presenting your claim in court.
Cooperate With the On-Scene Police, But Don’t Admit Fault
When speaking with the police, remain calm and provide factual details about what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about who was at fault, as fault determinations are made based on evidence, not personal opinions. Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident, other factors—such as another driver’s negligence or hazardous road conditions—may have played a role.
Admitting fault at the scene can be used against you later, even if further investigation proves you were not responsible. Instead, cooperate fully, answer questions honestly, and let the authorities and insurance companies assess liability based on the evidence.
Gather Witness Information
Gathering witness information is crucial because independent third-party accounts can help establish what happened and support your version of events.
Unlike the drivers involved, witnesses typically have no personal stake in the outcome, making their statements more credible to insurance companies and courts. Witnesses may have seen details you missed, such as the other driver speeding, running a red light, or using their phone. If liability is disputed, their testimony can be essential in proving fault.
To ensure their account is available later, ask for their name, phone number, and a brief statement about what they saw.
Leading Causes of Car Accidents in Salt Lake City
Car accidents in Salt Lake City happen for many reasons, but most are caused by human error, negligence, or hazardous road conditions. While some crashes result from unpredictable circumstances, many could be prevented if drivers followed traffic laws and remained attentive behind the wheel.
Understanding the most common causes of accidents can help drivers make safer choices and recognize dangerous behaviors on the road. Below are some of the leading factors that contribute to car accidents in Salt Lake City.
- Distracted Driving – Texting, phone use, or inattention behind the wheel.
- Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol and drug impairment remain significant factors.
- Drowsy Driving – Fatigue can impair judgment and reaction time.
- Speeding – Exceeding posted limits increases accident severity.
- Reckless Driving – Aggressive driving behaviors lead to collisions.
- Road Conditions – Snow, ice, and construction zones present hazards.
- Damaged or Defective Auto Parts – Faulty brakes, tires, or airbags can contribute to crashes.
Most Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. The severity of an injury often depends on factors such as the speed of the collision, the type of vehicles involved, and whether seat belts and airbags were used. While some injuries are immediately apparent, others—like concussions or internal bleeding—may not show symptoms right away. Seeking prompt medical attention is essential to diagnosing and treating any injuries properly. Below are some of the most common injuries sustained in car accidents.
Contacting a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer after an accident is essential for ensuring you receive the compensation needed to cover medical expenses and other damages. Serious injuries often require extensive treatment, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care, leading to overwhelming medical bills.
A Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation not only for these medical costs but also for lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
How Much Is My Car Accident Claim Worth?
The value of a car accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and the impact the accident has had on your daily life. No two claims are the same, and compensation amounts can vary significantly based on the details of each case. Below are key factors that influence the worth of a car accident claim:
Severity of Injuries
More serious injuries typically result in higher compensation because they require extensive medical treatment and may lead to long-term disabilities. Permanent injuries or those causing chronic pain can significantly increase a claim’s value.
Medical Expenses
Medical costs play a major role in determining a claim’s worth. This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and any future medical care needed due to the accident.
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. If your ability to work in the future is affected, you can also seek damages for lost earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. More severe injuries, particularly those that result in long-term pain or trauma, tend to increase the amount awarded for pain and suffering.
Property Damage
The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle is included in your claim. If your car was totaled, you may be entitled to the fair market value of your vehicle.
Fault and Liability
Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you were partially at fault for the accident. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages.
Insurance Policy Limits
Your claim’s value may be affected by the at-fault driver’s insurance policy limits. If their coverage is insufficient, your own underinsured motorist coverage may help cover the remaining costs.
Impact on Daily Life
If your injuries prevent you from performing daily activities, enjoying hobbies, or maintaining relationships, this can be factored into your claim under non-economic damages.
Because every car accident case is unique, consulting with a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can help you determine the full value of your claim. An attorney can assess your damages, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
How Long Can It Take to Recover Compensation in a Car Accident Case?
The timeline for resolving a car accident claim varies based on factors such as the severity of injuries, the complexity of the case, and whether the insurance company cooperates. While some cases settle quickly, others take longer, especially if they involve disputes over liability or require litigation. Below is a general timeline of what to expect during the claims process.
The First Six Months
In the first six months after an accident, the focus is on medical treatment, gathering evidence, and filing insurance claims. During this time, you should:
- Seek medical attention and complete initial treatments.
- Obtain a copy of the police report and collect evidence (photos, witness statements, medical records).
- File an insurance claim and begin negotiations with the insurance company.
If liability is clear and injuries are not severe, settlements can occur within this timeframe. However, if negotiations stall or medical treatment is ongoing, the case may take longer to resolve.
Months Six to 12
If a fair settlement is not reached within the first six months, the case moves into a more detailed investigation phase. This may involve:
- Continued medical treatment and evaluation of long-term injury impact.
- Further negotiations with the insurance company.
- Filing a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.
Once a lawsuit is filed, the legal process officially begins, but settlement discussions can continue. Many cases still resolve during this period through out-of-court negotiations.
Months 12 to 18
During this stage, the discovery phase of litigation begins. This involves:
- Depositions of all parties involved, including witnesses and experts.
- Additional medical evaluations and documentation of long-term injuries.
- Pre-trial negotiations and possible mediation to avoid going to court.
Cases that involve significant injuries or disputed liability often take longer because both sides need time to gather evidence. Many claims still settle during this period, but if no agreement is reached, your Salt Lake City car accident lawyer will start preparing for trial.
Months 18 to 24 and Beyond
If a settlement is not reached, the case moves toward trial, which can take months or even years to conclude. During this period:
- Attorneys present evidence and arguments in court.
- A judge or jury determines fault and the amount of compensation owed.
- If either party appeals the decision, the case may be extended further.
Trials are less common, as most car accident cases settle before reaching this stage. However, in complex cases with significant damages, litigation may be necessary to secure full compensation.
How to Speed Up Your Case
While some delays are unavoidable, you can help move your case along by:
- Following your doctor’s treatment plan to complete medical care as soon as possible.
- Providing all necessary documents and cooperating with your attorney.
- Avoiding social media posts that could be used against you in your claim.
Each car accident case is unique, and an experienced Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can help ensure your case is handled efficiently while maximizing your compensation.
Can a Salt Lake City Car Accident Law Firm Help Me Recover More Compensation?
Yes, hiring an experienced Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can significantly increase the amount of compensation you recover after a crash. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by offering quick, low settlements or disputing liability. Without legal representation, you may not realize the full value of your claim or know how to fight back against unfair tactics.
A skilled Salt Lake City car accident attorney can help maximize your compensation by:
Accurately Calculating Your Damages
Many accident victims underestimate the long-term financial impact of their injuries. Your Salt Lake City car accident lawyer will ensure that all damages—both economic (medical bills, lost wages, property damage) and non-economic (pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life)—are properly accounted for.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters are trained to settle claims for as little as possible. Our Salt Lake City car accident lawyers know how to counter these tactics, present strong evidence, and push for a fair settlement that fully covers your losses.
Proving Fault and Liability
If there is any dispute about who caused the accident, the insurance company may try to reduce or deny your claim. A Salt Lake City car accident lawyer will gather crucial evidence—such as accident reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and expert testimony—to establish liability and strengthen your case.
Handling Complex Cases
If your accident involves multiple parties, severe injuries, or an uninsured driver, the claims process becomes more complicated. Your Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can navigate these challenges, ensuring all possible sources of compensation are pursued.
Taking Your Case to Court if Necessary
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can file a lawsuit and take the case to trial. This not only provides the opportunity for a judge or jury to award full compensation, but the threat of litigation often encourages insurers to settle for a higher amount.
Without a lawyer, you may accept a settlement that doesn’t fully cover your medical bills, lost wages, and future expenses. By working with a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer, you have a better chance of securing the maximum compensation available for your case.
Damages and Compensation After Car Wreck
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both financial losses and the physical and emotional impact of the crash. In personal injury cases, damages are typically divided into two categories: economic damages and non-economic damages.
The amount you can recover depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the extent of financial losses, and the impact the accident has had on your daily life.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the tangible, financial losses you have suffered due to the accident. These damages are easier to calculate because they are based on actual costs and expenses, such as:
- Medical Expenses: Covers hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment costs.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost while recovering from injuries, including future lost wages if you are unable to return to work.
- Property Damage: This covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.
- Rehabilitation and Therapy: If you require physical therapy, occupational therapy, or psychological counseling due to the accident, these costs can be included in your claim.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: This includes transportation costs for medical appointments, home modifications for disabilities, and any other accident-related expenses.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate for the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on your life. Unlike economic damages, these losses are more subjective and can vary from case to case. They include:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort caused by your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Covers anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychological effects of the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from participating in hobbies, activities, or other aspects of life you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have negatively affected your relationship with your spouse or family, you may be able to recover damages for loss of companionship and support.
- Disfigurement and Permanent Disability: If the accident resulted in scarring, amputation, or other permanent conditions, additional compensation may be awarded.
Calculating non-economic damages can be complex, as there is no fixed dollar amount for pain and suffering or emotional distress. However, an experienced Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can help you determine a fair value based on similar cases, medical records, and expert testimony.
Building a Car Accident Case
A Salt Lake City car accident lawyer plays a crucial role in proving liability and maximizing compensation for injured victims. Building a strong case involves gathering evidence, consulting experts, and effectively negotiating with insurance companies. Below are the key steps an attorney takes to build a compelling claim.
Investigating the Accident Scene
A thorough investigation begins with collecting all available evidence from the accident site. This includes:
- Police reports detailing officer observations and preliminary fault assessments.
- Photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signals.
- Surveillance or dashcam footage capturing the crash.
- Witness statements from those who saw the accident occur.
Gathering Medical Records and Expert Opinions
Medical records are critical in proving the extent of injuries and linking them directly to the accident. Your Salt Lake City car accident lawyer will:
- Obtain hospital records, doctor’s notes, and diagnostic test results.
- Work with medical professionals to assess long-term effects and future medical costs.
- Consult vocational experts if injuries impact the victim’s ability to work.
Establishing Liability and Fault
Determining who is at fault requires legal analysis and sometimes accident reconstruction. A lawyer may:
- Analyze traffic laws to identify violations.
- Use accident reconstruction experts to recreate the crash.
Calculating Full Damages
To ensure the victim receives full compensation, an attorney will account for:
- Past and future medical expenses.
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to settle for the lowest possible amount. A lawyer will:
- Handle all communications and prevent clients from making statements that could harm their case.
- Use collected evidence to push for a fair settlement.
- Reject lowball offers and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to pursue maximum compensation.
Filing a Lawsuit and Preparing for Trial
If negotiations fail, a lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit and take the case to court. This includes:
- Conducting depositions and gathering sworn testimony.
- Presenting evidence before a judge or jury.
- Arguing for full compensation based on legal precedent and expert testimony.
By following these steps, a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer builds a strong case that holds negligent parties accountable and helps victims recover the compensation they need.
Contact a Salt Lake City Car Accident Lawyer Today To Review Your Case For Free
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Salt Lake City, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. The insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim—make sure you have an experienced advocate fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers are ready to handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, taking your case to court.
Contact Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation, or call now at (801) 810-9999 and let us help you secure the financial recovery you need to move forward.
Salt Lake City Car Accident Case FAQ
Do I need a car accident lawyer if the insurance company offers a settlement?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you consult with a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer before accepting any settlement offer from an insurance company. While the offer may seem fair at first, it is often much lower than what you may actually be entitled to. Insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts and may not take into account future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or long-term disability.
An attorney can review the offer, assess the full value of your damages, and negotiate for a higher settlement that truly reflects your losses. Once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to seek additional compensation, even if you later realize that your injuries require further treatment. Your Salt Lake City car accident lawyer ensures that your claim accounts for both immediate and long-term costs, protecting your financial future.
Before signing anything, speak with an attorney who can evaluate your case and help you determine whether the settlement offer is fair—or if you deserve more.
How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
Most Salt Lake City car accident lawyers, including Valley Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and your attorney only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. Instead of charging an hourly rate, the lawyer takes a percentage of the settlement or court award—typically between 25% and 40%, depending on the complexity of the case.
Since consultations are typically free, there is no risk in discussing your case with a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer to understand your legal options.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If you’re involved in a car accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may still have options for recovering compensation. While Utah law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance, not everyone complies, and some drivers only have the bare minimum, which may not be enough to cover your damages.
Utah insurance companies must offer Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, which protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance. If you have UM coverage on your policy, you can file a claim with your own insurance company to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. If the at-fault driver has insurance but their policy limits are too low to fully cover your damages, Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage can help bridge the gap. This coverage applies when your UIM policy limits exceed the at-fault driver’s liability limits.
Since Utah is a no-fault state, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will cover at least $3,000 of your medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault. If your injuries are severe and exceed this amount, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through UM, UIM, or a personal injury lawsuit.
If you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, you may be able to sue the at-fault driver personally. However, many uninsured drivers lack the financial resources to pay for damages, making recovery difficult. Your Salt Lake City car accident lawyer can help assess whether this is a viable option.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident
Yes, under Utah law, you can still file a claim if you were partially at fault for the accident. Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule, as outlined in Utah Code § 78B-5-818. This statute states that a plaintiff can recover damages as long as their fault is less than 50%. However, the compensation awarded will be reduced by the plaintiff’s percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, your total compensation will be reduced by that 20%. It’s important to note that if you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any damages.
