Learn the Most Popular Myths About Auto Accidents and Personal Injury Claims
The many misconceptions and myths surrounding personal injury claims can often keep people from seeking the compensation they deserve. Car accidents can result in thousands of dollars in medical bills, property damages, lost wages, and more. If you have been involved in an auto accident, you might be unsure whether a lawsuit is the right course of action. Keep reading to get the facts about personal injury claims so that you can pursue a claim with confidence. I Don’t Need to Hire a Lawyer If I Have Insurance Although insurance companies work to help you receive compensation after an accident, they cannot always guarantee the full amount you are entitled to. Personal injury lawyers understand the full particulars of the insurance industry, so they will fight to deliver you proper compensation for medical treatment, property damages, pain and suffering, lost wages, or any other damages. I Can File a Personal Injury Claim Any Time Some car accident victims want to wait until their injuries are healed before filing a claim. The problem with waiting is that each state has its own statute of limitations that sets a time limit on how long you have to seek compensation after your accident. In Utah, a person has four years to file a bodily injury claim and three years to file a property damage claim, according to the Utah Insurance Department. Minor Injuries Do Not Warrant a Personal Injury Claim Some victims feel like they cannot file a claim because their injuries are only minor; however, this idea is false. Any degree of injury is enough to warrant a personal injury claim. If you were the victim of another person’s negligence, you are entitled to having your medical expenses covered. Instead of downplaying or discounting your wounds and grievances, do not be afraid to seek the justice you deserve. The At-Fault Party Will Have to Pay Out-of-Pocket for Your Expenses You might assume that the responsible driver will have to cover all of your expenses out-of-pocket if you reach a settlement, but this is not true. This can make some accident victims hesitant to file because they do not want to make the responsible person’s life miserable. Instead of the at-fault party, their insurance company will be paying for your settlement. Get Help After an Auto Accident with Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton If you or a loved one was injured on the road, the attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton are here to assist you as you file a personal injury claim. The prospects of dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but we are here to help. Our team has spent over 25 years assisting Utah citizens after motor vehicle crashes and we are eager to help ease your worries after your motor vehicle accident. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah, and happily serve citizens all over the Utah and Salt Lake Valleys. Get in touch with us today to get started.
Workers’ Compensation: How Long Does it Take to Receive Benefits?
After suffering a severe injury at work, many people rely on workers’ compensation benefits to help cover necessities as part of recovery. While these benefits may not be as much as regular work wages, they allow an injured individual to heal without experiencing undue financial burdens in the process. Keep reading to learn more about when your compensation benefits will kick in and what you can expect regarding payment schedules and so forth. When do Workers’ Compensation Benefits Start? According to Utah state lawn, insurance carriers have 21 days after learning about your work injury to either: Begin compensation payments. Deny your claim. Inform you that additional investigation is required. In cases where further investigation is necessary, the insurer will have an additional 24 days to determine if they will accept or deny your claim. Given the timeframes involved in Utah by law, it’s always best to initiate this process of seeking compensation soon after your accident. Reporting Your Injury and Filing Your Claim Once you have sustained an injury at work, be sure to inform your employer as soon as it happens. Doing this will get the workers’ compensation process moving sooner rather than later. Your employer must file paperwork, and you will need to undergo a doctor’s exam. Obtaining proper documentation of your injury will help you receive benefits sooner. How Long Will Workers’ Compensation Benefits Last? The payment schedule of compensation will depend on the nature of your injury. In Utah, the maximum amount of time for temporary partial benefits and permanent partial disability benefits is 312 weeks. Depending on the injury and its severity, not all injured workers will require or use Utah state law’s maximum amount of time. What If There Is a Denied Claim or Delay? If the company denies your claim, you can appeal the denial to receive compensation. The appeals process will add time to the overall start of receiving benefits, however. Since it can take 21 days for an initial response, 24 days after that in cases where additional investigation is required, and even more time for the appeals process, a person can be months away from their injury without receiving any benefits. Contact the Attorneys of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton If you’ve had your workers’ compensation claim denied or require legal assistance with these issues, our attorneys are here to help. We can go over the reasons for the initial denial of your claim and suggest actions to receive your rightful injury benefits. Having experienced litigators on your side can avoid unnecessary delays and numerous headaches regarding the process. To learn more about compensation benefits and other issues related to workplace accidents and recovery, be sure to contact our team of work injury lawyers. The attorneys of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton are here to help you in your time of legal need. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan and serve Utah citizens all over the Utah and Salt Lake Valley.
What Happens If I Was Involved in a Rideshare Accident?
Since rideshare drivers share the road with hundreds of other cars each day, the risk of being involved in a rideshare accident is conceivable. As a passenger, it is essential to understand your rights if you fall victim to an accident caused by your rideshare driver. Continue reading to learn how you should navigate this process to receive the rightful compensation you deserve. What Is a Rideshare Company? Rideshare platforms operate as a dispatcher of sorts connecting riders and drivers via websites and mobile apps. These companies provide driver-for-hire services to customers through freelance drivers who use their vehicles for transportation. Some examples of rideshare companies include Uber, Lyft, Via, Gett, Curb, and Ztrip. Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident If you are involved in a rideshare accident, here are a few steps to take straightaway: Receive any necessary medical treatment as soon as possible. It is the driver’s responsibility to file an accident report with law enforcement, however as a passenger, you will also need to report the crash to the ridesharing company. Gather information about the accident, such as the names of everyone involved, insurance information, license plate numbers, and photographs of vehicle damage. When you get a quiet moment, take some time to write out the details of what happened. These notes might become helpful in the future as you consult with an attorney, your insurance provider, and law enforcement. Whose Insurance Covers a Rideshare Accident? Generally, the insurance company of a driver who is at fault is responsible for any passenger injury claim after a traffic accident. In the event of a rideshare accident, you will file an insurance claim through the driver’s policy or the coverage provided by the rideshare company. If another vehicle were at fault, you would file a claim through that driver’s insurance provider. Who Is Liable for Passenger Injuries? If you sustain injuries as a passenger, the legalities can sometimes be murky. In general, the rideshare company will only be legally liable for a passenger’s damages if the company itself was negligent in connection with the crash. In some states, rideshare drivers are considered independent contractors. Therefore, the driver and their insurance company would be responsible for financial compensation. How Much is a Rideshare Passenger Injury Case Worth? Many factors determine the value of a rideshare passenger’s injury claim, but it starts by understanding the scope of their damages. Here are some of the factors that affect the value of an injury settlement: Any past and future medical care that is needed Prescribed medications Loss of income Daily life interruptions Quality of life Physical and mental pain and suffering Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Can Help If you have fallen victim to a rideshare accident, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is here to help. Our team has over 25 years of experience assisting Utah citizens to recover financially after a car accident occurs, and we are eager to help you with your case. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Give us a call today to get in touch with a car accident lawyer that will be by your side every step of the way.
5 Motorcycle Safety Tips Every Rider Must Know
Riding a motorcycle is a thrilling experience, but understanding essential motorcycle safety tips is a necessary task before hitting the road. Safe riding practices will help reduce the number of injuries and fatalities that are all too common on U.S. roads. Today, we’re sharing five of our best tips to ensure your safety as a motorcycle rider. Practice Operating Your Motorcycle Given the fact that motorcycles vary in responsiveness, power, and handling, it’s a good idea to get accustomed to a new or unfamiliar bike in a secluded area first. Once you feel confident, you will be well-equipped to enjoy motorcycle rides wherever the roads may take you. Check Your Bike Before Each Ride No matter where you are in the world, you should always check the following before riding: Tire pressure Tread depth Hand and foot brakes Headlights and signal indicators Fluid levels Signs of oil or gas leaks We understand that life gets busy, but keeping your bike in tip-top shape will pay off in the long run. Wear Proper Gear Now that you have prepared yourself to ride, be sure to wear proper protection as well. It may seem unnecessary at first, but protective gear could mean the difference between life and death in the case of an accident. Here are some essential items you should not overlook: Proper footwear that covers toes and ankles Padded clothing, such as a motorcycle jacket and pants Leather riding gloves A DOT-certified helmet Always Wear a Helmet A helmet is the single most crucial piece of safety gear a motorcyclist can wear. Studies have found that helmets reduce the risk of death by 37-42 percent in the event of a crash. As you select one, look for the DOT symbol on the outside of the back. This indicates that the helmet meets the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. You should also make sure that the fit feels comfortable and secure. Ride Responsibly One of the most critical motorcycle safety tips is always to ride responsibly. Full cooperation from all motorists is necessary to prevent accidents on our nation’s roads. Riding responsibly encompasses several points including, but not limited to: Obey all traffic laws, including lights, speed limits, lane markings, signals, etc. ● Don’t take risks and drive defensively as if other drivers cannot see you ● Always ride with the flow of traffic and leave plenty of room around you ● Proceed cautiously at intersections Always yield to pedestrians Never operate your motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You in the Event of a Motorcycle Accident Despite following motorcycle safety tips, accidents might still occur. If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to the experienced attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton to review the best course of action. We can help you obtain your rightful compensation for any damages. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Contact us to schedule your free case evaluation today.
Night Driving and the Risk of Auto Accidents
We encourage drivers to be aware of when that risk for a car accident may be heightened. For instance, the number of accidents is more prominent at night. Let’s take a closer look at why that is.
Will My Car Accident Result in Arthritis?
A car accident can cause injuries that might trigger arthritis or exacerbate a preexisting condition, and this is not something you should take lightly. Arthritis is often overlooked after a car crash because it can take some time for symptoms to develop. If you have experienced an injury after an accident, you should speak with your doctor about the possibility of developing arthritis. Continue reading to learn more about this joint disease. Why Would a Car Accident Cause Arthritis? Traumatic events, such as a car accident, are likely to leave victims with bodily injuries such as headaches, whiplash, back pain, and more. These injuries can wreak havoc on certain parts of the body and lead to deterioration of bone and cartilage. For this reason, it is not uncommon for an accident to trigger arthritis. What Is Arthritis? According to WebMD, arthritis is a broad term that covers over 100 different joint diseases. In general, it refers to any degree of joint inflammation. Arthritis is a very normal reaction to injury and can include swelling, pain, and stiffness. After a car accident, you might start to feel these symptoms. Some degree of discomfort is natural and expected, but inflammation that lasts for a long time can lead to tissue damage. If you are experiencing any degree of bodily pain after your accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Types of Arthritis There are many different forms of arthritis that a person might develop following a car crash. The two most common types include post-traumatic osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis – Osteoarthrosis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting over 27 million adults in the United States. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis encompasses nearly 12 percent of these cases. This condition refers to cartilage damage that develops following a joint injury. Any amount of joint pain, swelling, or stiffness can be a sign of post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis – Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease usually associated with aging but can be aggravated by car accident trauma. If you already had an ongoing inflammatory disorder before a crash, any sustained injuries can exacerbate RA and cause it to spread to other joints. How to Prove That a Car Accident Caused or Worsened Your Arthritis If you suspect that your arthritis was caused or aggravated by a car accident, it is critical to seek medical attention. In addition to treatment, your doctor will be able to provide essential documentation to help prove your case. From there, contact a personal injury lawyer to compile your case and help you navigate the process. They will work closely with your insurance provider, healthcare professionals, and other key players to reach the settlement you deserve. Get Help After a Car Accident with Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton If you have been a victim of a car accident and need help pursuing a case, you want the lawyers of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton on your side. Our team has over 25 years of experience assisting Utah citizens to recover financially after a car accident occurs. We’ll review your case, give you exceptional legal advice, and help you fight for the compensation you deserve. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
Types of Accidents: Highway Accidents
Highway accidents are among the deadliest collisions on United States roads, so it’s important to know how to protect yourself. Understanding highway safety could mean the difference between life and death when operating your vehicle. Keep reading to learn more information about these crashes and what you can do to stay safe. Accident Statistics According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, more than 38,000 lives are lost every year on United States roads, and 4.4 million are injured enough to seek medical attention. Additionally, road crashes cause up to 380 million dollars annually in medical costs. Causes of Highway Accidents Many different factors regularly contribute to highway accidents. Here are some of the most common causes and how to avoid them: Drowsy driving – Traveling for long stretches on a highway can be very uneventful, which might lead to heavy eyelids and dozing off. According to the CDC, 1 in 25 adult drivers have fallen asleep at the wheel at some point over the past 30 days. Before heading out on the road, make sure that you are well-rested and energized. Distracted driving – A lengthy excursion on the highway can make a driver feel tired, but it can also cause their mind to wander. Even though long stretches of road may seem inherently safe, many hazards can cause accidents if you’re not paying close attention. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of vehicle accidents, so always be aware and attentive when traveling. Night driving – Some drivers like to drive at night to avoid heavy traffic and other hazards; however, night driving itself can be a danger. Not only is it more challenging to stay awake, but visibility worsens at night. Make sure to use your full lights when driving on rural highways to increase distinguishability. Highway Safety Essentials There are many steps that drivers can take to ensure safety when traveling on U.S. highways. Here are some safety features needed to certify a safe trip: Airbags – Airbags are essential for safety when you are traveling on a highway, and in 2017, they saved 2,790 lives alone. Airbags reduce the fatality rate by 59 percent when used in conjunction with seatbelts. Child safety seats – Car and booster seats are essential for little ones when driving anywhere, but are especially important for long-distance trips. According to the NHSTA, car seats saved the lives of 325 children in 2017 alone. Car seats are most effective when they are installed properly and sized correctly. Use this guide to help you find the right car safety seat for your child. Helmets – If you are traveling by motorcycle, a proper helmet is a necessity that can save your life. The NHSTA estimates that more than 25,000 lives have been saved by wearing motorcycle helmets since 2002. Follow this guide to ensure you are using the correct helmet. Contact Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Personal Injury Lawyers If you or a loved one has been the victim of reparations resulting from highway accidents, Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help. We have spent over 25 years supporting Utah citizens in gaining fair compensation after car accidents, and our lawyers are eager to help you with your case. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Give us a call today to get in touch with a car accident lawyer that will be by your side every step of the way.