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Aside from suffering injuries and damages, thinking about what needs to be done after a crash can be overwhelming, confusing, and stressful.
According to the 2024 Idaho Traffic Crash report, a traffic crash occurred every 19 minutes, and a person was injured every 44 minutes. More specifically, Meridian recorded 2,254 traffic crashes, which accounts for nearly 30% of Ada County’s total of 7,284.
At Craig Swapp & Associates, our Meridian car accident lawyer understands the toll a car crash can take on every victim. That’s why it’s crucial to understand your rights, responsibilities, and legal options following a collision.
If you’re asking what to do after a car accident in Meridian, keep on reading as we walk you through each step.
Immediately after a crash, prioritize safety. Check yourself and others for injuries.
If you can move safely, get out of the line of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Even minor collisions can result in serious injuries, so take any pain or discomfort seriously. If someone is severely injured, do not attempt to move them unless there’s an immediate risk (like a fire). Wait for emergency personnel.
Dial 911 if there are injuries, a possible DUI, aggressive drivers, or significant vehicle damage. Emergency services will dispatch police and paramedics as needed.
In less severe situations, contact the Meridian Police Department’s non-emergency line at 208-377-6790.
Under Idaho law, drivers must report any crash that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,500. If a responding officer files the report, you may later access it. If no police come to the scene, you can still file a Meridian City police report online.
Evidence fades quickly, so use your smartphone to capture as much detail as possible:
This documentation will be invaluable when filing an accident claim or speaking with a car accident attorney.
Idaho law requires all drivers involved in a crash to exchange specific information:
Be polite and cooperative, but avoid discussing fault at the scene. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be interpreted as an admission of liability.
Whether or not you feel hurt, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) take hours or days to show symptoms.
Prompt medical attention creates a clear link between the crash and your injuries, a key factor when working with a car accident lawyer.
Most insurance companies require prompt notice of any accident, even if you’re not at fault. Provide the basic facts but avoid offering recorded statements or accepting blame until you’ve spoken with legal counsel. You have the right to legal representation when dealing with any insurer.
Legal advice can make or break your case, especially when fault is unclear, injuries are severe, or multiple parties are involved.
An experienced car accident lawyer can:
Plus, many car accident law firms work as no-win-no-fee car accident lawyers, so there’s no upfront cost.
Time is not on your side after a Meridian car accident. Idaho has several important deadlines:
Failing to meet these deadlines could result in losing your right to compensation. A lawyer can ensure your case is filed on time and correctly.
When you partner with a seasoned Idaho car accident lawyer, you gain a trusted advocate focused on your recovery and results.
Idaho follows a modified comparative negligence rule for car accidents. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages. A car accident attorney in Meridian can help establish the other driver’s fault and reduce any claims against you.
Not every car crash leads to a successful personal injury claim. Your attorney will evaluate medical records, liability, insurance coverage, and documentation to estimate your chances of success and determine your potential damages.
An experienced legal team will walk you through:
If necessary, your car accident attorney can represent you in court to pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care.
Getting started with what to do after a car accident can be taxing, but you have the option to seek legal help. With thousands of Idaho crashes each year and over 2,200 happening in Meridian alone, it’s essential to have a lawyer on your side.
Craig Swapp & Associates is here to help you move forward following a collision. Whether you’re injured, unsure of your legal rights, or overwhelmed by car insurance companies, our car accident attorney in Meridian can guide you through every step.
Call us today at 208-203-8588 or send us a message about your case by answering our online form here. We’re ready to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially after a car accident without any upfront cost.
Written By: Ryan Swapp Legal Review By: Craig Swapp