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Utah Car Accident Laws

Utah car accident laws

In Utah, car accident laws are designed to help protect drivers and ensure accountability. After a car accident, you’ll need to exchange information with the other driver and report the incident to the police if damages are significant. Utah follows a "no-fault" system, meaning drivers first turn to their insurance company for compensation.

However, the at-fault driver can still be sued for damages in certain cases. Knowing these laws helps you handle insurance claims, protect your rights, and understand your legal responsibilities. At ReshLaw, we focus on helping car accident victims navigate Utah’s legal system.

Our experienced attorneys guide you through the process of filing insurance claims, knowing your rights, and seeking compensation for your injuries.

Whether you’re dealing with a no-fault insurance claim or pursuing legal action against an at-fault driver, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Basics of Car Accidents in Utah: What You Need To Do

If you're involved in a car accident in Utah, here are the immediate steps to follow:

  1. Ensure safety by checking for injuries.
  2. Move the vehicle out of traffic, if possible.
  3. Call 911 if there are significant injuries or damage.
  4. Get the insurance information of the other driver. You must also exchange contact and vehicle information with them.
  5. Gather evidence by taking photos and noting the scene.
  6. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
  7. Seek medical attention for any pain or injuries, even if they seem minor at first.
  8. Keep records of all expenses and communications related to the accident.

Utah is a No-Fault State for Car Insurance: What Does This Mean?

Utah’s no-fault insurance system means that after a car accident, each driver’s insurance company pays for their damages and medical bills. However, if the injuries from the car crash are severe or reach a certain threshold, the at-fault driver can still be sued.

The threshold for suing an at-fault driver usually includes medical expenses of at least $3,000 or permanent disfigurement. Awareness of this helps drivers know when to file a lawsuit or rely on their insurance provider for compensation.

Legal Requirements for Reporting Car Accidents

Utah law requires certain car accidents to be reported. You must have police report an accident if:

  • There’s property damage over $1,500.
  • Someone is injured or killed.
  • The vehicles are blocking traffic and need to be moved.

Failing to report an accident can result in fines or penalties. Always report the accident scene to local law enforcement or file a report with the Utah Department of Public Safety.

How Is Fault Assigned in Car Accidents in Utah?

How is fault assigned in car accidents in Utah

In Utah, fault in a car accident is assigned based on comparative negligence. This means that fault is divided between the parties involved based on their level of responsibility for the accident.

For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault for an accident in Utah, your compensation may be reduced by that percentage.

The insurance company or court system will review evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and other factors to determine how fault is divided. Drivers who are more than 50% at fault cannot collect compensation from the other driver.

Mandatory Insurance Requirements for Utah Drivers

All Utah drivers must carry auto insurance with specific minimum coverage for bodily injury and property damage.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is required to help cover medical expenses following an accident. These insurance requirements provide drivers with financial protection in case of an serious accident related injuries.

Minimum Liability Coverage and Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

In Utah, drivers must have both liability coverage and Personal Injury Protection (PIP). Liability insurance covers the damages you cause to other people in an accident. PIP, on the other hand, covers your medical bills, regardless of who is at fault.

PIP provides quick access to medical treatment but restricts your chance to sue the at-fault driver. Ensuring you have adequate coverage protects you financially in case of an accident.

Consequences of Driving Without Insurance in Utah

Driving without insurance in Utah has serious legal and financial consequences. These include:

  • Fines can go up to hundreds of dollars for a first offense.
  • License suspension until insurance is obtained.
  • The possibility of vehicle impoundment.
  • Increased insurance rates.

Driving uninsured also leaves you personally liable for damages in an accident, which can result in expensive lawsuits.

Optional Coverages and Their Benefits

In addition to mandatory coverage, Utah drivers can choose optional coverages, such as:

  • Collision coverage to fix your vehicle after an accident that is your fault.
  • Comprehensive coverage for damages unrelated to accidents (e.g., theft or weather).
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for protection against drivers without enough insurance.

These options can ease the burden of repairs and medical bills after a crash, helping you avoid out-of-pocket expenses.

Statute of Limitations for Filing Car Accident Claims in Utah

In Utah, you have four years from the car accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations is three years for property damage claims. It can prevent you from recovering compensation if you fail to file within this period. Work with a lawyer early on to ensure all legal deadlines are met.

Compensation Available Under Utah Car Accident Laws

Compensation available under Utah car accident laws

Compensation in Utah car accident cases includes:

  • Medical expenses for both immediate and ongoing care.
  • Lost wages for time missed from work.
  • Pain and suffering damages for emotional and physical distress.
  • Property damage repairs or replacement costs.

Additional monetary compensation may be awarded in cases of severe injury, long-term disability, or gross negligence by the at-fault driver.

How Our Utah Car Accident Lawyer Can Maximize the Value of Your Car Accident Settlement

At ReshLaw Accident & Injury, our experienced lawyers help you recover maximum compensation for your injuries. We work to build a strong personal injury claim by gathering evidence, negotiating with the at-fault driver’s insurance, and ensuring you receive compensation for medical treatment and lost wages.

Whether through a serious car accident lawsuit, settlement or court, our team fights for the best outcome in every auto accident case.

Contact Our Utah Car Accident Lawyer at ReshLaw Accident & Injury for a Free Case Consultation

Contact our Utah car accident lawyer at Reshlaw accident & injury for a free case consultation

Contact ReshLaw Accident & Injury for a free consultation if you've been in a car accident. Our Utah personal injury attorney team will review your case and help you file a car insurance claim. We specialize in helping accident victims recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and more.

Let's start your path to recovery with the help of our legal team. Our legal services go beyond just car accident claims. We also assist clients with cases involving motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and wrongful death claims.

Our team is experienced in handling severe injury cases, ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Whether you're dealing with injuries from a slip and fall or facing the aftermath of a catastrophic injury, our attorneys are here to provide personalized support and aggressive representation. Call us today to discuss your legal options

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