Immediate Steps After a Fillmore Car Accident

Car accidents can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately can protect your health, rights, and financial recovery. Follow these essential steps to navigate your Fillmore car accident effectively:

Step 1: Move Cars to Safety and Exchange Information

  • When Safe: Move vehicles to the side of the road to prevent additional accidents.
  • Gather Information: Exchange insurance and contact details with all involved drivers.
  • Document the Scene: Take pictures of the vehicles, license plates, damage, and road conditions. Collect contact information from witnesses.

Step 2: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after a Fillmore car accident, injuries such as whiplash or concussions may not show symptoms immediately. Visit a doctor to document your condition and ensure you receive proper treatment.

Step 3: Hire an Experienced Fillmore Car Accident Lawyer

Not all attorneys specialize in car accident cases. Hiring an experienced lawyer like Jake Gunter ensures your claim is handled correctly, maximizing your compensation and reducing stress.

Step 4: Focus on Recovery

Your health is the priority after a Fillmore car accident. A car accident attorney can help secure medical liens and agreements to defer payment until your case settles, ensuring you get the care you need without financial stress.

Why Hire a Fillmore Car Accident Lawyer?

Better Results

An experienced attorney knows how to negotiate with insurance companies, avoid common pitfalls, and secure a fair settlement.

No Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Attorney Jake Gunter advances all case costs, including medical records, expert witnesses, and court fees. You don’t pay unless your case is resolved successfully.

Less Stress

Navigating insurance claims and legal processes after a Fillmore car accident can be overwhelming. A knowledgeable attorney reduces stress by managing every aspect of your case.

Utah Personal Injury Thresholds and Statutes of Limitations

What is the Personal Injury Threshold?

To recover damages beyond medical bills, Utah law requires:

  • Medical bills exceeding $3,000, or
  • Permanent injuries, such as scarring or long-term disability.

Statutes of Limitations

  • Personal Injury Claims: Four years from the date of the accident.
  • Property Damage Claims: Three years from the date of the accident.
  • Claims Against Government Entities: Strict one-year filing deadline.

Do I Have a Fillmore Car Accident Case?

You Were Hurt

Common injuries include muscle strains, fractures, concussions, and dashboard knee injuries. Even pre-existing conditions aggravated by the accident are compensable.

The Accident Wasn’t Your Fault

Utah’s comparative fault law requires you to be less than 50% at fault to recover damages.

Example: If you’re found 20% at fault and awarded $100,000 in damages, your compensation will be reduced by 20%, resulting in $80,000.

You Meet Utah’s Threshold Requirements

You must have over $3,000 in medical bills or a permanent injury to claim damages beyond medical expenses.

Common Types of Fillmore Car Accidents

  • Rear-End Collisions: Fault is usually assigned to the rear driver.
  • Left-Hand Turn Accidents: Left-turn drivers are often at fault but may argue shared responsibility.
  • Red-Light Accidents: Common at busy intersections, especially during light changes.
  • Pedestrian Accidents: Determining fault depends on whether the pedestrian was in a crosswalk.
  • DUI Accidents: These involve unique legal challenges, including concurrent criminal and civil cases.

Common Car Accident Injuries

  • Neck and back strains (e.g., whiplash).
  • Bone fractures.
  • Dashboard knee injuries (damage from knees hitting the dashboard).
  • Shoulder injuries (often caused by seat belts).
  • Concussions and head injuries.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Benefits

Every Utah auto insurance policy includes PIP benefits with a minimum of $3,000 in medical coverage. PIP benefits pay for emergency care, physical therapy, and chiropractic treatment regardless of fault.

How Are Fillmore Car Accident Cases Resolved?

No Lawsuit

Most claims are settled out of court through negotiation between your attorney and the insurance adjuster.

File a Lawsuit

If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit. Possible outcomes include:

  • Settlement After Discovery: Many cases settle after depositions and evidence are reviewed.
  • Arbitration: A neutral arbitrator decides the case, saving time and money compared to a jury trial.
  • Jury Trial: A jury decides the value of your damages. This process is more time-intensive but may result in a higher award.

Fillmore Car Accident Resources

  • Utah Valley Hospital: 1034 North 500 West, Fillmore City, UT 84604
  • Fillmore City Police Department: 48 South 300 West, Fillmore City, UT 84601
  • Fillmore City District Court: 137 East Freedom Avenue, Fillmore City, UT 84606
  • Utah Highway Patrol – Section 6: 763 North 1370 West Street, Orem, UT 84057

Call Jake Gunter for Expert Legal Help

Don’t navigate the complexities of a Fillmore car accident case alone. Jake Gunter, an experienced Fillmore car accident attorney, can guide you through the process, maximize your compensation, and reduce stress.

📞 Call or Text: (801) 373-6345
Free Consultation: Jake offers free consultations and can travel to meet you at your home, hospital, or accident scene.

No fees unless you win. Let Jake fight for the compensation you deserve!

Learn More About Auto Accident Lawyer Jake Gunter Utah Injury Attorney | 20 Years' Experience | Fillmore Car Accident

For additional insights on Utah personal injury law and to get to know Jake Gunter better, check out these helpful videos:

These resources will provide you with valuable information as you consider your legal options. For any questions or to schedule a free consultation, feel free to reach out to us directly.