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JDB Law, PLLC

While you should be able to expect professionalism from an insurance company, sometimes you will encounter delays. When this happens, it could be considered an act of “bad faith.” This can be a sign of them delaying in order to get you to accept a lower settlement, are withholding important information, or are intentionally undervaluing your claim. While not always the case, it’s worth looking into.

After a car accident, the your medical bills are covered by your own auto insurance’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Utah law requires a minimum of $3,000 in PIP coverage (but you can have more if you choose). Each person in a vehicle is covered by PIP, and each person has their own $3,000 (minimum) available to cover medical bills associated with their injuries. PIP is also referred to as No-Fault coverage because it doesn’t matter who is at fault in the accident for PIP to kick in an cover your medical bills. If your medical bills exceed $3,000, you can then file a claim against the at-fault driver’s auto insurance. 

Different from other kinds of lawsuits, personal injury attorneys are generally paid through a contingency fee agreement. Attorneys usually receive 33% of the final settlement or verdict (40% if the case goes to trial, and 45% if there is an appeal). Keep in mind that most attorney’s will want to be reimbursed for costs on top of their attorney fee. Such costs include expert witness fees, deposition fees, exhibit preparation costs, etc.

If you find that repairs do not restore your vehicle to its same value as before the accident, a diminished value claim allows you to capture the difference between the vehicle’s fair market value before the accident and its fair market value after repairs are completed. 

Utah law requires car owners to have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. This covers medical costs, related expenses, and up to $250 per week of lost income. PIP applies regardless of who was at fault. This is also known as “no-fault insurance.” However, if your injuries are severe enough to exceed $3,000, your are entitled to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. Part of such a third-party claim can include the total documented amount of lost wages. Keep in mind that a lost wages claim requires that you miss work because of medical treatment or because your doctor has given you a “doctor’s note” excusing you from work while you recover.

Several factors affect the value of a personal injury case. The extent of injuries, the length of recovery from those injuries, the related treatment costs, lost wages and other economic factors, and the extent of available coverage and assets. While we can’t make any guarantees, our personal injury attorney can review the details of the case to give you an estimate of your case.

It is usually not recommended to give a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster in the wake of a car accident without having consulted with an attorney. Should you agree to giving a recorded statement, it gives the insurance companies the opportunity to use your own words against you. This can have devastating effect on the ultimate liability determination. It can also be detrimental in court or during settlement negotiations.

A personal injury lawyer is an attorney who specializes in representing individuals who have suffered harm due to the negligent or intentional actions of others. These legal professionals handle various case types, including automobile accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and defective product claims. Their main objective is to assist clients in obtaining just compensation for their injuries, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

When searching for a personal injury lawyer, it is essential to consider factors such as experience, reputation, communication style, and fee structure. You can start by asking for recommendations from friends or family members, searching online directories, or contacting your local bar association for referrals. It’s crucial to interview potential lawyers, discussing their experience and asking about their success rates, to find the one best suited for your case.

Ideally, you should hire a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident or injury occurs. Prompt action ensures that crucial evidence is preserved, witnesses are interviewed while their memories are fresh, and any applicable statutes of limitations are not missed.

To identify the best personal injury lawyer for your case, it’s important to conduct comprehensive research on potential candidates. Consider obtaining recommendations from acquaintances, researching online directories, or seeking referrals from your local bar association. Examine each lawyer’s credentials, experience, and client reviews to create a shortlist of candidates.

Once you have a shortlist, schedule consultations with each lawyer to discuss your case, assess their success rates, and evaluate their communication abilities. During these meetings, inquire about their approach to handling cases similar to yours, and ensure you feel comfortable with their style and personality.

When you’ve decided on the personal injury lawyer you wish to hire, make certain you understand their fee structure. Typically, these lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning their fees are a percentage of the compensation you receive, with no upfront costs required. Carefully review the retainer agreement, and address any concerns or questions you may have before signing the document.

A personal injury lawyer provides legal representation and support to clients who have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence. They perform various tasks, including investigating the circumstances surrounding the injury, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies or opposing counsel to reach a fair settlement. If necessary, they will also prepare and present the case in court to seek appropriate compensation. Additionally, personal injury lawyers guide their clients through the complex legal process, ensuring they understand their rights and options at each stage of the case.

After an accident, it is crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Document the accident scene by taking photographs, collecting contact information from witnesses, and obtaining a copy of the police report. Avoid discussing the accident or admitting fault to anyone, including insurance adjusters. Consult a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case and receive guidance on the best course of action.