Filing a claim after a car accident is not something that most accident victims think about right away.
However, it is something you should take care of as soon as reasonably possible.
There is no precise deadline when a claim must be filed, but it varies depending on your state and insurance policy. Continue reading to learn more about how to complete an injury claim and acquire the compensation you deserve.
Time Frame
Each state has a different time limit for when a person can file a car accident injury claim. Some states only give you one year from the date of the accident while others allow up to six years. In Utah, a person has four years to file a bodily injury claim and three years to file a property damage claim, according to Utah’s Insurance Department. It is crucial to understand the deadlines in your own state.
Damages in an Accident Lawsuit
Many losses can result from a car accident. Physical, economical, and emotional distress are all common problems that can arise. One of the main reasons to file a lawsuit is to receive repayment for any losses that were caused due to the accident. Repayment usually comes from a court-ordered financial sum.
Here are some examples of typical damages resulting from a crash:
- Medical bills – Medical expenses are one of the costliest losses that accidents produce. These overheads can come from hospital stays, therapy sessions, medications, and more. These bills can add up quickly but can be listed in a car accident claim.
- Wrongful death – If a death happens because of the accident, this can become an emotional and financial burden that can be compensated for in a lawsuit.
- Property damage – Anything that is damaged in a car wreck is considered property damage. This could include the motor vehicle, public property, a phone, or any other form of personal property. These losses can be recouped in a lawsuit.
- Loss of current or future wages – Accidents can impact a person’s career. If someone cannot perform their current or future work duties, this can be added to the list of damages in an accident claim.
Why Delay Filing?
Filing an injury claim immediately after an accident is not the most prudent move. There are many valid reasons to delay filing a claim. For example, many injuries are not known until days, or even weeks, after an accident. Examples of such injuries are:
- Whiplash –Whiplash is a common result of car collisions. This is a soft tissue injury and may not manifest itself until days after an accident.
- Internal injuries – Internal injuries can include problems such as internal bleeding and bruising and may not appear right away.
- Head injuries – Many head injuries can be hard to detect right after an accident. This type of harm can have lasting side-effects such as headaches and memory loss.
Get Help After an Accident with Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton
If you have sustained losses due to a car accident, you should contact a personal injury lawyer to assist you in the legal process after the crash. At Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton, we are here to help you handle the aftermath and receive the compensation you deserve.
We have offices in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Schedule your free case evaluation today.