No one expects to get into a car accident. In a matter of seconds, your day can go from routine to traumatic, and what you do next can impact your health, your financial stability, and even your legal rights. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, it’s easy to feel disoriented and unsure about what steps to take.
If you’ve been in an accident in Utah, here’s what you need to do and why calling a personal injury lawyer right away is one of the most important decisions you can make.
1. Ensure Everyone’s Safety
First and foremost, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately and do not move them unless necessary to prevent further harm. If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent additional accidents.
Even if you feel okay in the moment, remember that adrenaline can mask pain. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not become apparent until hours or even days later.
2. Contact the Local Police
Always report the accident to law enforcement, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. In Utah, you are legally required to file a report if the accident causes injury, death, or property damage of $1,500 or more.
When officers arrive, they’ll create an official accident report, which can be a key piece of evidence in your case. Be honest and cooperative, but avoid speculating or admitting fault, even casually.
3. Gather Information at the Scene
If you’re physically able, collect the following information at the scene:
- Names, contact info, and insurance details of all drivers involved
- License plate numbers
- Photos of the vehicles, damage, and the surrounding area
- Contact info for any witnesses
This evidence can be critical when filing your insurance claim or pursuing a personal injury case.
4. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, getting checked out by a medical professional is crucial. Some injuries take time to surface, and early documentation can be essential if you later need to file a claim.
Follow through on all recommended treatments and keep detailed records of appointments, diagnoses, and expenses. These documents will also help support the connection between the accident and your injuries. Therefore, it becomes crucial evidence of the damages you suffered due to the accident.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
You’ll need to report the accident to your insurance provider, but be cautious. Keep your statements brief and factual, and don’t speculate about who was at fault or the extent of your injuries. Never agree to a recorded statement or sign anything without legal advice.
Insurance adjusters may try to get you to settle quickly and often for far less than your case is worth.
6. Contact an Experienced Car Accident Injury Lawyer in Utah
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. You’re dealing with physical pain, emotional stress, missed work, and piles of paperwork, and meanwhile, the insurance company is already building its case.
That’s why your first call after an accident should be to a car accident lawyer in Utah.
How a Car Accident Lawyer in Utah Can Help Victims After Sustaining an Injury
You’ll Get Immediate Guidance on What to Say (and What Not to Say)
A good lawyer will help you avoid common mistakes that could damage your claim. They’ll tell you what to say to insurance companies, how to document your injuries, and which steps to prioritize. When emotions are high and the stakes are even higher, having an experienced advocate makes all the difference.
They’ll Handle the Legal and Insurance Headaches for You
Navigating insurance adjusters, collecting medical records, and assessing damages is a full-time commitment. If you’re recovering from an injury, this can be overwhelming.
An attorney will manage all these details for you, allowing you to concentrate on your recovery. They will ensure that nothing is overlooked, such as filing deadlines or crucial evidence, which might compromise your case if not addressed correctly.
You’ll Have Someone Fighting for the Full Compensation You Deserve
Car accidents can lead to a wide range of costs, from ER visits and surgeries to physical therapy and lost wages. In Utah, if another driver was even partially responsible for the crash, you may be entitled to compensation for all these expenses and more.
An experienced Utah car accident lawyer will know how to calculate the true value of your claim and negotiate with the insurance companies to get the compensation you need, not just what they’re offering.
You Don’t Pay Unless You Win
At Flickinger Boulton Robson-Weeks, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. No upfront fees, no surprises, just skilled legal representation focused entirely on getting you results.
Why Timing Matters
The hours and days after a car accident are critical. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can become harder to reach, and insurance companies may try to pressure you into a fast (and low) settlement.
Utah also has a statute of limitations that typically gives you four years to file a personal injury claim, but that doesn’t mean you should wait. The sooner your attorney can start building your case, the stronger your position will be.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Utah, don’t go it alone. At Flickinger Boulton Robson-Weeks, we’ve helped countless accident victims across the state get the justice and compensation they deserve. We know how to navigate the insurance process, handle the legal complexities, and stand up for your rights every step of the way.
Call us today at 801-500-4000 to schedule your free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions, listen to your story, and help you take the next right step.
