Car accidents can be overwhelming, and when the at-fault driver is uninsured, it adds a layer of stress and complexity. In Utah, car insurance requirements are strict and complex. Therefore, it is important to know your rights and legal options. It is highly advisable to hire an attorney to help ease the process.
Understanding your rights and the steps you should take after such an incident will help you protect yourself and get compensation for your injuries and damages. If you have been involved in a car accident with an uninsured motorist in Utah, lawyers like those in Moxie Law Group can help you get justice. Meanwhile, read this blog to learn about some important steps to take after such an accident.
What to do after the accident?
The immediate moments after the car accident are crucial. Move to a safe location and make sure you and the other passengers involved are safe, too. In case of any injury, call emergency services immediately. Do not admit your fault and get the contact information of the at-fault driver. Your statement can be used against you in court, which can prevent you from getting the right compensation for your injuries. Document the scene of the accident and take pictures of the vehicles involved and their license plate, injuries, and damages incurred.
Also, make sure to report the accident to the police immediately. The police will arrive at the accident scene and make reports, which can be crucial for your insurance claim and legal proceedings. Do not hide anything, and provide all necessary information to the police.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Utah
In Utah, all drivers need to have car insurance, including uninsured motorist coverage. But, it is not mandatory under Utah law. If you have this coverage, it helps as a safety net and covers all the medical expenses and damages that are caused by uninsured drivers.
However, if you do not have this coverage, you may face difficulty in recovering expenses that are related to your injuries. Studies show that about 8.2% of drivers in Utah are uninsured. So, it is very important to renew your insurance policy and discuss it with your insurance provider to make sure you are protected in such situations.
To avoid any risk of accidents in the future, drive carefully on the road and follow every traffic rule strictly. Do not engage in distracted driving habits such as texting or calling while driving, as it can significantly increase the chances of accidents and injuries.
How to file a claim?
After getting medical help, gather all the important documentation and contact your insurance provider. Inform them about the accident and provide all the relevant documentation. This includes your medical or hospital bills, police reports, and pictures from the scene of the accident. Filing a claim will help you get compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and even damaged property.
Follow your insurance company’s advice and provide any additional documents if needed. This can be a difficult task. However, do not worry. Your insurance agent will be there to assist you throughout the process.
Many insurance companies do not offer fair compensation initially. They always think about their own interests. Therefore, having a personal injury attorney on your side is very important. They will help you negotiate with the insurance company and avoid lowball settlements. If they think the insurance company is not offering fair compensation for your damages, they can take your case to trial.
Hire an attorney today!
Car accidents can be devastating. If you or your loved ones have been involved in a car accident in Utah, do not hesitate to seek legal help. A personal injury attorney will help you negotiate with the insurance company and get you the right compensation for your damages.