Being involved in a vehicle accident in Salt Lake City can be frightening and disorienting, especially if you sustain injuries. If you’re injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to file a personal injury claim in Salt Lake City to help cover your medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. Our  team of vehicle accident lawyers in Salt Lake City at Craig Swapp & Associates can help you relieve the stress by explaining the injury claims process and fighting for your right to compensation.

What to Do After a Vehicle Accident in Salt Lake City

Immediately following a vehicle accident in Salt Lake City, there are crucial steps to take for your safety and to protect your potential claim:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is your top priority. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.
  2. Report the Accident: Utah law requires you to report accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1500. Call the police to the scene to file an official report.
  3. Exchange Information: Obtain the name, address, driver’s license number, insurance information, and vehicle registration of all other drivers involved.
  4. Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the accident location, and any visible injuries. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.

Consulting with a Salt Lake City vehicle accident lawyer in these early stages is vital. They can help you navigate the initial complexities of your personal injury case, including dealing with insurance companies.

What to Expect in a Personal Injury Claim

The process of personal injury claims in Salt Lake City can be lengthy and complex. Here’s a general idea of what you can typically expect:

  1. Investigation: Your vehicle accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering evidence such as the police report, witness statements, medical records, and expert opinions if necessary.
  2. Determining Liability: Under Utah’s comparative negligence law, your lawyer will determine who’s at fault for the accident and to what degree. Your compensation may be reduced if you’re found partially at fault.
  3. Demand Letter: Your lawyer will send a demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurance company, outlining your losses and demanding compensation.
  4. Negotiations: Insurance companies often attempt to settle with lowball offers. Your vehicle accident lawyer will negotiate aggressively on your behalf to secure the maximum compensation possible.
  5. Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations don’t lead to a fair settlement, you may file a lawsuit to take your case to court.
  6. Trial: Though most cases settle before reaching trial, your Salt Lake City vehicle accident lawyer will prepare to represent you in court if necessary.

A vehicle accident and its legal aspects can feel overwhelming. The sooner you seek legal advice, the stronger your personal injury case may be to obtain the compensation you deserve.

What Amount of Compensation to Expect for Your Injuries

The amount of compensation you may receive for your injuries after a vehicle accident depends on several factors, including:

  • Severity of Injuries: The more severe your injuries, the higher your potential compensation will be. This is because serious injuries often require more extensive medical treatment and a longer recovery period.
  • Medical Expenses: You can seek reimbursement for past and future medical expenses related to your injury. 
  • Lost Wages: You could recover lost income due to time missed from work, as well as diminished earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or limit your future earning potential.
  • Pain and Suffering: Utah law allows you to seek compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by the accident. 
  • Other Economic and Non-Economic Damages: This may include costs for property damage, the loss of enjoyment of life if your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you love, and other potential losses.

At Craig Swapp & Associates,  our dedicated team of vehicle accident lawyers in Salt Lake City is committed to fighting for fair compensation for our clients. We’ll work tirelessly to establish fault, maximize your compensation, handle complex legal matters unique to your case, and offer compassionate support throughout the process. 

Contact us today for a free consultation. Remember, time limits apply, so act fast to protect your right to compensation.

Written By: Ryan Swapp     Legal Review By: Craig Swapp