When you’ve been involved in a car accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Between dealing with medical bills, insurance companies, and the emotional stress, it’s easy to feel lost.
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand the challenges you face. We’re here to provide the support and legal expertise you need to navigate this difficult time. Our team of experienced car accident lawyers in Orem, UT is committed to helping you get the compensation you deserve.
Keep reading to learn about the legal process of filing a car accident claim in Orem, your rights, and the steps you can take to rebuild your life.
According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, there were 60,021 crashes in Utah in 2023, and most of them were car accidents.
These accidents often lead to vehicle damage, minor injuries, or life-changing harm like spinal cord damage. Some accidents also result in fatalities, leaving families with deep emotional and financial burdens.
When you are in a car accident, you may face medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Navigating insurance claims and understanding legal rules can be overwhelming. That is why many people choose to work with a dedicated car accident lawyer.
A lawyer can help gather evidence, talk to insurance companies, and push for fair compensation. If you have been in a crash in Orem, knowing your rights and taking proactive steps will increase your chances of a positive resolution.
Car accidents in Orem are usually caused by several factors, including:
One of the top causes of car accidents in Orem and across the country is distracted driving. Drivers who text, talk on the phone, eat, or adjust music while on the road put everyone at risk. Even a few seconds of looking away can lead to a crash.
Distracted driving is especially dangerous because it reduces reaction time and awareness of changing road conditions. It is not just phone use: distractions can include chatting with passengers or focusing too closely on a GPS device. If a driver is not fully focused on the road, they may miss critical signs or signals, leading to severe accidents.
Speeding is another significant factor in many car accidents. When drivers go above the speed limit, they have less control over their vehicles. This makes it harder to react to sudden stops, changing traffic lights, or unexpected obstacles.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major cause of accidents in Utah. Despite strict laws, including the 0.05% BAC limit and widespread awareness, some individuals still choose to get behind the wheel while impaired.
Drunk driving slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and reduces coordination. This can cause the driver to drift out of their lane or fail to stop at a red light. In some cases, drunk drivers do not even realize they are on the wrong side of the road. The consequences can be tragic, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Additionally, drivers can engage in other risky actions that contribute to crashes. For example, some change lanes while driving aggressively, fail to signal when changing lanes, or tailgate the car in front of them.
These behaviors can lead to fatal car accidents. Road rage is another concern, where angry or frustrated drivers take out their emotions on the road. This can involve brake-checking, abrupt lane changes, or chasing other vehicles. Such actions not only break traffic rules but also put everyone in the vicinity at higher risk.
While not always under a driver’s control, weather plays a role in car accidents too. Bad weather conditions such as rain, snow, and ice can reduce visibility and make roads slippery. Drivers who do not adjust their speed or maintain a safe following distance are more likely to lose control or collide with other cars.
Utah is a no-fault state for auto insurance. This means that after an accident, your own insurance can help cover medical costs and other losses, regardless of who caused the crash. This system aims to reduce legal battles by providing quick coverage through personal injury protection (PIP). However, if your injuries are severe or go beyond your PIP coverage, you may file a liability claim against the at-fault driver.
Additionally, Utah follows a system called modified comparative negligence. Under this rule, if you are partly at fault for an accident, you can still recover compensation as long as you are not 50 percent or more at fault. However, your compensation is reduced by the percentage of your fault.
For example, if you are found 20 percent responsible for the collision, you can only receive 80 percent of the total award.
The statute of limitations for car accident injury claims in Utah is typically four years. This means you have four years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, there can be exceptions, especially if the claim involves government entities or certain other factors. It is wise to act promptly and consult a lawyer to ensure you do not miss key deadlines.
Being in a car accident can be scary and confusing. However, what you do right after the collision can affect both your safety and your ability to seek compensation later. Below are some steps you can take if you find yourself in this situation in Orem.
Figuring out who caused a car accident is important when it comes to personal injury claims. In Orem and throughout Utah, the person who is found at fault may be responsible for paying damages or having their insurance pay.
But the fault is not always obvious. Here are some common ways fault is determined in a car accident case.
When police come to the scene, they usually create an official report. This report can contain important details about how the accident happened, witness statements, and any traffic laws that were broken. While the police officer’s opinion is not always final in court, judges and insurance companies often pay a lot of attention to it.
The report can also include sketches of the accident scene or diagrams, which can be very helpful in understanding what occurred. Having this written record ensures there’s an official account of the event, which can be critical for your case.
If a driver violates a traffic law, such as speeding or running a red light, they are more likely to be found at fault. For example, if someone rear-ends you while you are stopped at a traffic light, it is usually their fault for not maintaining a safe distance.
Breaking basic traffic laws can strengthen your personal injury claim and show that the other driver was negligent. It’ll also prove that their careless actions may have directly caused your accident and injuries. This can make it easier to prove that the other party is responsible for your damages.
Sometimes, people who saw the accident can offer unbiased accounts of what happened. These witnesses can confirm which driver ran a stop sign or whether one driver was swerving. Witness testimony can be especially helpful if the drivers give conflicting stories about the accident.
In many cases, an eye-witness account can provide important details that make all the difference in how the case is resolved. Witnesses can also provide an outside perspective that may help clarify the events and establish liability. Their statements can strengthen your case and support your version of events.
Photos, videos, and even vehicle “black box” data can help paint a clear picture of the collision. In more complicated cases, accident reconstruction experts may analyze vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions.
Their specialized knowledge can identify how fast vehicles were traveling or whether a driver had time to avoid the crash.
Utah uses a comparative negligence system, meaning each driver can hold some portion of fault. If you are less than 50 percent at fault, you can still collect damages, but the amount you receive is reduced by your share of fault. For instance, if you are found to be 20 percent responsible, you can only collect 80 percent of the full award.
Proving fault often requires detailed evidence and effective negotiation. Insurance companies may try to shift blame to lower their payouts. By working with an experienced car accident lawyer, you can gather strong evidence, defend against unfair accusations, and seek the compensation you deserve.
After a car accident in Orem, you will likely deal with insurance companies, both yours and the other driver’s. While insurance is supposed to protect you, the process can be complex and quite confusing. Here are some tips and insights into handling insurance matters effectively.
Most insurance policies require you to report an accident as soon as possible. This does not mean you have to give a full, detailed statement immediately.
You only need to provide basic information, such as when and where the accident happened. Failing to notify your insurance company in a timely manner could lead to claim denials later.
Insurance adjusters often ask you to provide a recorded statement or sign forms giving them access to your medical history.
While you should be honest, be cautious about how much information you share before consulting a lawyer. Adjusters might use your statements to argue that your injuries were pre-existing or not related to the accident.
Take a look at your own insurance policy to see what coverages you have. In Utah, every driver must carry a minimum level of personal injury protection (PIP), which helps pay for medical expenses regardless of fault.
You might also have collision coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, or comprehensive coverage. Knowing your policy can help you understand what compensation might be available.
If the other driver was at fault, you might need to file a claim with their insurance. Keep in mind that their adjuster will be looking for ways to reduce or deny your claim.
Provide only the necessary details and refer complex questions to your attorney if you have one. Never accept a settlement offer without fully understanding its impact on your current and future expenses. Once you settle, you typically cannot ask for more money down the road, even if your injuries worsen.
Insurance companies often start with a low offer. They might question the severity of your injuries or say you had a prior condition. This can be frustrating, especially if you are in pain or worried about bills.
A skilled Orem personal injury lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, pushing back against low offers and presenting evidence to justify a higher amount. Lawyers understand how to calculate damages, including lost wages, future medical costs, and pain and suffering.
Keep track of every medical visit, therapy session, and medication you pay for. Also note any missed work hours or changes in your job duties. Maintain a record of phone calls and letters exchanged with the insurance company.
This documentation can be critical when proving the extent of your losses. Insurance adjusters often rely on documentation to justify higher settlements, so being organized works in your favor.
Insurance claims do not always resolve quickly. An adjuster might request more information or need extra time to evaluate evidence.
Patience can be necessary, but do not let the process drag on too long. Utah law provides a four-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, so if settlement talks stall, you may need to file a lawsuit to protect your rights.
If the accident caused serious injuries or the insurance company is being unreasonable, an attorney’s assistance can be invaluable. A lawyer familiar with car accident cases in Orem can guide you on whether to settle or litigate.
They also handle the complex task of proving fault and damages, easing your stress. The goal is to ensure you are compensated fairly for all you have suffered, not just the immediate costs.
Being in a car accident can bring unexpected physical, financial, and emotional challenges. If the accident was someone else’s fault, you may be entitled to compensation to help offset these burdens. Understanding what types of damages you can recover is key to a fair settlement or jury award.
Medical bills often make up the largest part of car accident claims. These can include ambulance fees, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, and physical therapy.
If your injuries require ongoing treatment, such as follow-up visits, rehabilitation, or assistive devices, those future costs can also be included in your claim. It is important to keep detailed records of all medical services you receive.
Recovering from an accident can force you to miss work, leading to lost wages. If you are seriously hurt, you might be unable to return to work for weeks or months. In some cases, injuries can leave you with a permanent disability that prevents you from doing your old job.
When calculating lost income, you can consider not only the time you already missed but also the potential future earnings you will lose if you cannot work as you did before. This is sometimes referred to as “loss of earning capacity.”
Accidents can leave your vehicle damaged or even totaled. You can file a claim for the costs of repairing or replacing your car, as well as any other property that was damaged in the accident, such as a phone or laptop.
The insurance company may offer you the fair market value of your vehicle if it is totaled. Make sure to gather repair estimates or value assessments from reputable sources to support your claim.
Not all damages are purely financial. Serious accidents cause physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish. You may experience fear of driving again, ongoing headaches, or a reduced ability to enjoy life.
Utah law allows accident victims to pursue compensation for these intangible losses, often referred to as pain and suffering. While no amount of money can erase the trauma, a fair settlement can at least acknowledge and address the emotional toll the accident has had on you.
In some cases, an accident affects your relationship with your spouse or family members. This could include a loss of companionship, intimacy, or support. When this happens, you may be able to file a claim for “loss of consortium.” This type of damage recognizes that serious injuries do not just harm the victim; they also ripple out to loved ones who depend on them.
Punitive damages are rare and are meant to punish extremely reckless or malicious behavior. For example, if a drunk driver caused a crash while far above the legal blood alcohol limit, a court may choose to award punitive damages to discourage future wrongdoing.
However, these damages are not granted in most standard car accident cases. They usually apply in extreme circumstances.
To determine the right amount of compensation, it is critical to have medical evaluations and, when needed, financial or vocational experts who can project long-term costs.
An experienced car accident lawyer can help with this process, ensuring every aspect of your suffering is documented. By taking a thorough approach, you stand a better chance of securing funds that truly reflect what you have lost and what you will need in the future.
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand how a car accident can flip your life upside down. The sudden medical bills, lost work, and emotional toll can feel overwhelming.
Our team is committed to helping you navigate these challenges. Below is how we assist car accident victims in Orem and throughout Utah.
We start by listening to your story. Every car accident is different, and each client has unique needs and worries. You might be dealing with a serious injury like a broken bone or spinal damage, or you could be overwhelmed by the financial stress of replacing your vehicle.
We want to understand your concerns so we can tailor our legal strategy to your situation. This personalized care reflects our deep respect for the people we serve.
Next, we examine every detail of your accident. This may include obtaining police reports, reviewing medical records, and interviewing witnesses. If necessary, we consult accident reconstruction experts to figure out exactly how the collision occurred.
By building a solid evidence base, we can show the insurance company, or a jury if the case goes to trial, exactly why the other driver is responsible. This includes demonstrating negligence, such as speeding, distraction, or drunk driving.
Insurance companies often try to minimize what they pay. They may argue your injuries are not as severe as you claim or suggest that you share the blame for the accident. Our lawyers are skilled negotiators who push back against these tactics.
We use the evidence we gather to show the full extent of your injuries and losses, demanding a settlement that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages like pain and suffering. If the insurer refuses to offer a fair amount, we are not afraid to proceed to trial.
Not all car accident cases are straightforward. Some involve multiple vehicles, complicated insurance policies, or government-owned roads. Others require deep knowledge of local regulations or negotiations with commercial trucking companies.
Our firm has handled a variety of complex personal injury cases, gaining experience that we can apply to your situation. If legal issues become intricate, we have the resources and know-how to navigate them.
Our attorneys have several years of experience in handling car accident claims and negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of clients.
We focus on personal injury cases and have achieved notable results, such as multi-million dollar settlements for wrongful death and serious injury claims.
If your case goes to trial, our Orem car accident attorneys can easily handle it due to their experience in complex personal injury litigation. With our team, you only need to tell us your version of the incident, and leave the rest to us.
Throughout the process, we keep your future in mind. Serious injuries can have long-term effects on your health and employment. We consider both current bills and potential expenses down the road.
Our goal is to help you secure enough compensation to rebuild your life. Whether that means covering ongoing physical therapy, adapting your home for mobility needs, or ensuring you and your family are financially stable, we stand by your side.
By combining compassion with legal expertise, Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks aims to give you peace of mind. You do not have to face this ordeal alone. With our guidance, you can focus on healing while we handle the legal and insurance aspects of your recovery.
In most cases, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, certain exceptions might shorten this timeframe. Speaking with an attorney soon after the crash helps ensure you do not miss important deadlines.
Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages as long as you are less than 50 percent at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of blame assigned to you.
The timeline varies. Some simple claims settle in a few months, while others, especially those involving serious injuries, may take over a year. Waiting can sometimes lead to higher settlements, as the full impact of your injuries becomes clearer.
Although it is not legally required, having a lawyer can make a big difference. An attorney understands insurance tactics, negotiates on your behalf, and ensures you pursue all available compensation.
Many personal injury attorneys, including our car accident lawyers in Orem, UT at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs, and the lawyer only gets paid if you receive compensation.
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