“In 2021, a crash occurred in Utah every 8.5 minutes, a person was injured in a crash every 20 minutes, and a person died in a crash every 26 hours. According to the Utah Highway Safety Office, in 2021 there were 61,406 motor vehicle crashes on public roadways in Utah, resulting in 26,437 injuries and 332 deaths,” says Weber State. Car accidents happen fast, and no one ever expects to be in one. Whether it’s a minor fender bender on University Avenue or a serious crash on I-15, knowing what to do in the aftermath can make a huge difference. A Provo car accident lawyer can help make sense of the legal side, but first, it’s important to take the right steps immediately after the collision.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call for Help
The first thing to do is check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if everything seems fine, adrenaline can mask pain. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if the accident has caused significant damage. Utah law requires drivers to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage over $1,500.
Step 2: Move to a Safe Spot
If the vehicles are blocking traffic and it’s safe to do so, move them to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot. If they can’t be moved, turn on hazard lights and stay inside the vehicle until help arrives. Standing in the road is dangerous, especially on busy streets like Center Street or State Street.
Step 3: Gather Information
It’s important to exchange details with the other driver, including:
- Name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance details
Taking photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries can be helpful later. Witnesses can also provide statements if needed.
Step 4: Avoid Admitting Fault
Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be twisted into an admission of fault. Utah follows a comparative negligence system, meaning fault can be shared between drivers. A Provo auto accident lawyer can analyze the situation later, but at the scene, it’s best to stick to the facts.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention
Even if there are no visible injuries, seeing a doctor is a good idea. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, might not show symptoms right away. Keeping medical records can also be important if legal action becomes necessary.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Most insurance companies require prompt injury claim reporting of accidents. Be honest about what happened, but avoid making recorded statements until speaking with a car accident lawyer Utah residents trust. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts, so having legal advice can prevent costly mistakes.
Step 7: Understand Utah’s No-Fault Insurance Rules
Utah is a no-fault state, meaning drivers must first turn to their insurance for medical expenses, regardless of who caused the accident. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for medical bills up to a certain limit, but serious injuries may qualify for a claim against the at-fault driver. A Utah car accident lawyer can explain the options based on the severity of the injuries.
Step 8: Be Cautious with Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers, hoping accident victims will accept before realizing the full extent of their damages. While the money might seem helpful, accepting too soon can mean losing out on compensation for ongoing medical treatment or lost wages. Speaking with an injury attorney Provo residents trust can help determine if the offer is fair.
Step 9: Know the Time Limits for Legal Action
Utah has a four-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims and a three-year limit for property damage claims. This might sound like a long time, but waiting too long can make gathering evidence harder. Consulting a personal injury attorney Provo Utah drivers rely on, can help keep everything on track.
Step 10: Get Legal Advice When Needed
Not every accident requires a Provo car accident attorney, but serious injuries, disputed fault, or lowball insurance offers might mean it’s time to call a personal injury attorney Provo residents count on. Legal guidance can be the difference between covering medical bills and struggling with unexpected costs.
Recovering from a car accident is about more than just fixing a vehicle—it’s about making sure injuries are treated, finances are protected, and legal rights aren’t overlooked. A Provo car accident lawyer can help sort out the details, making sure accident victims aren’t left covering expenses they shouldn’t have to pay. For those seeking legal guidance, William Rawlings & Associates has experience handling these cases and can offer insight into what steps to take next.
