Immediate Steps After a Millard County, UT Car Accident
A car accident can be stressful, but knowing the right steps to take can help you protect your health, legal rights, and chances of obtaining fair compensation. Here are the immediate actions you need to follow in Millard County or anywhere in Utah.
Step 1: Move Cars to Safety and Exchange Information
If it’s safe to do so:
- Move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Exchange critical information with all involved drivers, including:
- Names and phone numbers
- Insurance policy details
- License plate numbers
Document the Scene
- Take photos of all vehicles, damages, injuries, and the accident location.
- Gather witness contact information and request a police report.
Step 2: Seek Immediate Medical Care
Even if injuries seem minor, seek prompt medical care. Injuries like whiplash or concussions may not appear immediately but can worsen over time.
Common Medical Treatments
- Emergency room visits for fractures or head trauma
- Chiropractic care for neck and back injuries
- Physical therapy to address strains, sprains, or soft tissue damage
Step 3: Hire an Experienced Millard County Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced car accident lawyer ensures you get fair compensation and helps you avoid mistakes in handling your claim.
Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
- Better Results: Lawyers know how to negotiate and maximize compensation.
- No Out-of-Pocket Costs: Contingency fees mean you pay nothing unless you win.
- Less Stress: Your lawyer will handle the insurance process while you focus on recovery.
Step 4: Focus on Your Recovery
Prioritize your health by attending all necessary medical appointments. Your lawyer can help coordinate medical care if you lack private health insurance.
Why Hire a Millard County Car Accident Lawyer?
- No Fees Unless You Win: You pay nothing upfront; your attorney only gets paid if you recover compensation.
- Maximized Compensation: Attorneys fight for all damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Understanding Utah’s Car Accident Thresholds
To recover damages for pain and suffering, you must:
- Exceed $3,000 in medical expenses, OR
- Suffer a permanent physical injury, like scarring or a disability.
Statute of Limitations for Utah Car Accidents
- Personal Injury Claims: 4 years
- Property Damage: 3 years
- Government Claims: 1 year
Missing these deadlines can prevent you from recovering compensation.
Common Types of Millard County Car Accidents
- Rear-End Collisions: Typically the fault of the trailing driver.
- Left-Hand Turn Accidents: The turning driver is often liable.
- DUI Accidents: Drunk or drug-impaired drivers can lead to severe injuries.
Common Car Accident Injuries
- Muscle strains and whiplash
- Fractures and ligament damage
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
How Are Millard County Car Accident Cases Resolved?
- Out-of-Court Settlements: Most cases resolve through negotiation with the insurance company.
- Arbitration: A neutral third party decides the outcome informally.
- Jury Trials: A jury determines the value of your injuries in court.
Millard County Car Accident Resources
- Utah Valley Hospital
Address: 1034 North 500 West, Millard County, UT 84604 - Millard County Police Department
Address: 48 South 300 West, Millard County, UT 84601 - Millard County District Court
Address: 137 East Freedom Avenue, Millard County, UT 84606
Call Millard County Car Accident Lawyer Jake Gunter at (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation. Let nearly 20 years of experience help you secure the compensation you deserve.