Car accidents can be sudden and distressing, leaving victims unsure of what to do next. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a severe crash, knowing the right steps to take can help protect your health, legal rights, and financial well-being.
Utah has specific laws regarding car accidents, and understanding these rules can make a significant difference when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing a legal claim.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through what to do immediately after an accident and in the days that follow.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your safety and the safety of others should be your top priority. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If you or anyone else is hurt, do not attempt to move unless staying in place is dangerous. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary.
Utah law requires drivers to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $2,500. Even if the accident seems minor, calling law enforcement is essential for documentation.
Step 2: Move to a Safe Location (If Possible)
If the vehicles involved in the accident are creating a hazard and it is safe to do so, move them to the side of the road. Turn on hazard lights and use flares or warning triangles if available to alert other drivers. If moving your vehicle is not possible, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
Step 3: Exchange Information with the Other Driver
After ensuring everyone’s safety, exchange the following information with the other driver:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number and vehicle description
- Insurance company and policy number
Be polite, but avoid discussing fault at the scene. Admitting blame, even unintentionally, could be used against you when determining liability.
Step 4: Document the Accident Scene
Gather as much evidence as possible to support your case. This can be critical if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. Use your phone to take photos of:
- Vehicle damage and license plates
- Road conditions and traffic signs
- Any visible injuries
- Skid marks, debris, or other relevant details
If there were witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Their statements could help clarify what happened if there is a dispute later.
Step 5: File a Police Report
When officers arrive, provide an honest account of the accident, but avoid making speculative statements. The responding officer will create a police report detailing the crash, which can be valuable evidence for your claim. If police do not come to the scene, you should file an accident report with the Utah Department of Public Safety as soon as possible.
Step 6: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it is crucial to get checked by a doctor after a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Delaying medical care can not only put your health at risk but also weaken any potential personal injury claim. Be sure to keep copies of medical records, prescriptions, and receipts related to your treatment.
Step 7: Notify Your Insurance Company
Most insurance policies require you to report an accident promptly. Contact your insurer and provide them with the necessary details, but be cautious when discussing the incident. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim, so it is wise to consult a lawyer before giving any recorded statements.
Step 8: Understand Utah’s Car Accident Laws
Utah follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning that your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will pay for medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who caused the crash. However, if your injuries are severe or exceed Utah’s PIP threshold, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Utah also follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are determined to be 20% responsible, your total compensation would be reduced by 20%. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover damages.
Step 9: Keep Records of All Expenses
To strengthen your claim, keep a file with all accident-related documents, including:
- Medical bills and treatment records
- Repair estimates or invoices for vehicle damage
- Lost wage statements from your employer
- Correspondence with insurance companies
Detailed records can help maximize your compensation and prove the financial impact of the accident.
Step 10: Consult a Utah Car Accident Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if injuries and insurance disputes are involved. A skilled Utah car accident lawyer can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurers, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
An attorney can also help determine if you qualify to file a claim beyond PIP coverage and ensure that legal deadlines, such as Utah’s four-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, are met.
What Not to Do After a Car Accident
To protect your claim, avoid these common mistakes:
- Do not admit fault: Let the investigation determine liability.
- Do not delay medical treatment: Waiting too long can weaken your case.
- Do not accept the first settlement offer: Insurance companies often offer low settlements.
- Do not sign anything without legal advice: You may unknowingly waive your rights to further compensation.
Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks
A car accident can leave you facing medical bills, lost wages, and legal challenges, but taking the right steps can protect your health and financial recovery. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your rights are safeguarded and have the necessary documentation to support your claim.
If you have been injured in a car accident, speaking with an experienced Utah car accident lawyer at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks can help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (801) 500-4000 to schedule your free consultation.
