Every year Utah sees a large percentage of motor vehicle accidents, the most common being a rear-ending. Caused when another driver accidentally slams into the backside of another vehicle, the damage can range from minimal to severe. Whiplash, concussions, and broken bones are all possible injuries after a rear-end accident.
As is the case with many other forms of motor vehicle accidents, rear-end accidents are so common due to the negligence of other drivers. Whether it’s speeding, failing to brake soon enough on wet roads, or driving intoxicated, failing to stop in time puts other drivers at risk. If you have been the victim of a rear-end accident due to another driver’s negligence, you are owed compensation for your damages.
What to Do After a Rear-End Accident
No matter the exact reason for your rear-end accident, if it was caused by the negligent behavior of another, you are owed damages. To being receiving the compensation you deserve, it is important you take the following steps:
Gather Evidence
Safely gathering evidence after a motor vehicle accident can sometimes be impossible. If you are unable to exit your vehicle due to injuries or the inability to pull over to a safe location without any moving traffic, do not attempt to take photographs or video evidence. If you are able to do so without risk of further injury, documenting the scene through photos or videos or by collecting the testimony of eyewitnesses can be an invaluable tool for establishing your case.
Other examples of important evidence can include a police report and medical records of your injuries after the accident.
Speak With an Attorney
A Utah-based personal injury attorney will have extensive knowledge of how to file and get you the most possible compensation for your accident. For a rear-end collision, you are looking at possible economic and non-economic damages, which include compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical visits, and more.
Additionally, an attorney can help you obtain the time-sensitive evidence needed to fully demonstrate the negligence of the other party. This can include traffic camera footage and expert testimony.
Understand Utah’s State Laws
If you can’t file a claim immediately for your rear-ending accident, be aware of the current statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Currently, it is four years from the initial date of the injury. Any claim filed after the suit will not be considered legally valid.
Utah is currently one of twelve states that adheres to a no-fault system. This means that every driver is legally required to carry personal injury protection insurance to cover damages in the case of an accident. When your accident damages exceed the allowed amount, you can file a claim against the negligent party for additional compensation.
Speak With a Knowledgeable Utah Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you are a victim to Utah’s rising number of rear-end accidents, make sure one of the first things you do is reach out to a dedicated and knowledgeable attorney. The team at Feller & Wendt has spent decades getting Utah residents the results they deserve. We will immediately begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding your accident and collect the appropriate evidence needed to build your case. Our people-first approach to personal injury means you will have someone to look to during every step of the process, from the initial filing all the way to the final settlement.
For a free consultation on your best legal options, please give our office a call at (801) 499-5060 or fill out our contact form.
