Get Help For Any Type Of Injury Case

Do I Need an Idaho Car Accident Attorney?

CASE EVALUATIONS ARE FAST, EASY, AND FREE.

Common Car Accidents

Idaho, known for its picturesque landscapes and thriving communities, is not immune to the reality of car accidents. According to the Idaho Transportation Department, the state witnesses an array of accidents ranging from minor fender benders, rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, to severe multi-vehicle pile-ups. These accidents can result from various factors such as distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, or adverse weather conditions. But do you need an Idaho car accident attorney? Read on to find out:

Damages You Can Recover in a Car Accident

After an accident, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation under Idaho law. These damages include but aren’t limited to medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In cases where the other party’s conduct was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. However, the process of accurately calculating these damages and negotiating with insurance companies is complex and often requires legal expertise.

What to Do in a Car Accident

The immediate aftermath of a car accident can be a chaotic and distressing time. Knowing what steps to take at this crucial moment not only helps to ensure everyone’s safety but also assists in protecting your rights, should you choose to seek compensation later on. Let’s break down what you should do:

Prioritize Safety
- - The very first thing to do is to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle out of the path of traffic to a safe location. If not, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident.
Check on Others and Call for Help
- Once you’re safe, check on the well-being of other people involved in the accident. Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured. Regardless of the severity, it’s a good idea to call the police to report the accident, as an official police report can be instrumental when filing an insurance claim.
Document the Scene
- Start by exchanging relevant information with the other parties involved in the accident, including names, contact information, insurance details, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers. Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene from different angles. Be sure to capture close-ups of any damage to the vehicles and any visible injuries. Additionally, jot down details about the accident, including date, time, location, weather conditions, and any other relevant information.
Gather Witnesses
- If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to collect their contact information as well. Eyewitness accounts can provide an impartial perspective of the events leading to the accident, which can be valuable in establishing fault.
Seek Medical Attention
- After an accident, adrenaline can mask the pain of injuries. Thus, even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms and can be dangerous if left untreated.
Notify Your Insurance Company
- Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Be honest about the facts but be cautious not to admit fault prematurely, even if you think you might be at fault. The determination of fault is a complex process that takes into account all available evidence.
Consider Legal Assistance
- Depending on the severity of the accident and the complexities involved, it may be beneficial to consult with a car accident lawyer in Idaho.

Remember, each step you take in the aftermath of a car accident can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. Therefore, acting wisely and responsibly is crucial.

Why You Need an Idaho Car Accident Lawyer

In the aftermath of a car accident, you might find yourself facing not just physical recovery, but also a complex web of legal and insurance-related issues. This is where an Idaho car accident lawyer can play an essential role. Here’s why:

Understanding Idaho Accident Laws
- Idaho follows a “fault” system, meaning the party who is determined to be at fault for the accident is responsible for the damages. While this might seem simple on the surface, in reality, proving fault can be a complex legal process involving detailed evidence and in-depth knowledge of Idaho’s traffic and accident laws. An experienced car accident lawyer in Idaho can help you navigate these complexities, building a robust case that effectively demonstrates the other party’s fault.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
- Insurance companies, even your own, may employ tactics to devalue your claim or deny it outright. They often come with a team of seasoned adjusters and lawyers whose job is to save the company money. Without legal representation, you may find yourself at a disadvantage during negotiations, potentially receiving less compensation than you’re entitled to. An Idaho accident lawyer can handle these negotiations on your behalf, using their expertise to counter lowball settlement offers and ensure your rights are protected.
Accurate Calculation of Damages
- Calculating damages—especially non-economic damages like pain and suffering—is not a straightforward task. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the law and a detailed analysis of your injuries, medical expenses, loss of earnings, and the overall impact the accident has had on your life. A car accident lawyer can help ensure that all of these factors are taken into account when determining the value of your claim.
Legal Representation
- If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your case may need to go to court. Having an Idaho car accident lawyer to represent you in these proceedings can be crucial. They can build a strong case, backed by solid evidence, and advocate fiercely for your rights and interests in front of the judge and jury.

So, while hiring a lawyer is not mandatory, having one on your side can offer significant advantages. They can provide the expertise, resources, and commitment needed to navigate the aftermath of a car accident effectively, offering you peace of mind and an opportunity to focus on your recovery.

Written By: Ryan Swapp Legal Review By: Craig Swapp

Schedule a Free Consultation

Full Name(Required)

Telephone(Required)

Email(Required)

Preferred Contact Method(Required)

Brief Description of Case(Required)

Name

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Client Reviews

“I was concerned with all the paperwork”

Before calling your firm I had 2 big worries. One was I didn’t want to do more paper work, and that fear was resolved when I had to do very little, but Craig Swapp and Assoc. did most of it, and when I did have to come in to sign papers they worked around the times I could do it. Worry 2 was I didn’t want people to think I was “sue happy” and that I was just out to get money. I just wanted my bills to be paid for that were from the accident, and that was resolved I think by Mr. Wes Mortenson and Theresa because they listened to what I had to say.

Amber W.,

Spokane, WA

"I would hire them in a second"

My biggest fear was not having all the expenses caused by the accident paid for in full. I was assured they would be taken care of but I admit I was skeptical. When we wrapped everything up (which happened quicker than I was originally told) I had extra money in my pocket. I honestly thought there was a catch but my attorney explained everything to me in detail. If I am ever in that position again I’ll be giving Craig Swapp a call.

Robert N.,

Spokane, WA

"I was afraid of the fees"

I was afraid of the fees I would have to pay a lawyer. I waited over a year before hiring your law firm. I finally reached out to your online help where they were able to help me understand the process and what would happen. In all honesty I absolutely loved working with the individuals that were involved in my case. They were genuine & heartfelt about my case. It felt as though they really cared and were concerned about me, not just as a client but as a person.

Lacey B.,

Salt Lake City, UT

"I was afraid that my issue was too small"

I was afraid that my issue was too small to be handled, and that it would just be rejected. Or that I’d end up having to pay for my medical expenses and any of your teams expenses. I would definitely answer yes, it was resolved! I wasn’t ever made out to feel like my little issue didn’t matter, and my expenses were paid for- just what I wanted/needed.

J. Rohas,

Caldwell, ID

"I am very pleased with the results"

My biggest fear was that it would be pointless to pursue legal action in my case. I felt like maybe I didn’t have much of a case. After speaking with Paul, I realize it was not of my own fault and that others can be held responsible for the pain and suffering I went through.

Dollie J.,

West Jordan, UT

READ ALL TESTIMONIALS