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Avoiding mistakes is important within any kind of legal setting or situation, and filing a car accident injury claim is no exception. There are a few different kinds of errors that can crop up during this process, and being aware of them is important for helping steer clear of them.

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're proud to offer the best auto accident injury lawyer services available in Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo and nearby parts of Utah. Our car accident attorneys will walk you through this entire process, helping you take the right steps and avoid mistakes to file a claim and obtain just compensation if another party was responsible for your injuries. Here are some of the most common such mistakes, plus how a car accident attorney will help you steer clear of them.

Filing a Car Accident Injury Claim

Not Calling the Police Immediately

One of a few mistakes that traces back to the actual accident scene itself is not phoning the police right away. Even if damages are minor, it's still important to do so – many insurance companies will require a police report in order to process your claim.

This is also important for the simple fact that it's in your best interest to have an official record of the accident. If there are any disputes about what happened or who was at fault, a police report can be crucial evidence to support your claim.

And of course, calling the police is also important for safety reasons. They can assist with traffic control, ensuring that all parties involved are safe while waiting for assistance.

Not Documenting the Scene

Beyond just calling police, it's also vital to document the scene of the accident as best you can. This includes taking pictures or videos of property damage and any injuries sustained by yourself or others.

In addition to documenting physical evidence, be sure to write down details about what happened leading up to and during the accident. Memories can fade quickly, so having a written record of events will help when filing your claim.

Admitting Fault

Another common mistake made after an accident is admitting fault at the scene, even if it seems like the honorable thing to do. However, doing so can greatly harm your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries.

Remember, determining fault is not always cut and dry – there may be factors at play that you are not aware of or did not witness. It's best to leave this determination up to the professionals, such as insurance companies or a court of law.

Not Seeking Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after an accident, it's still important to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not present themselves immediately, and waiting too long to get checked out can harm your claim.

In addition, having documentation from a medical professional about any injuries sustained will help support your case for compensation. So, be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident.

Not Consulting With a Car Accident Attorney

Perhaps the biggest mistake you can make when filing a car accident injury claim is not consulting with a car accident attorney. Even if you believe you have a strong case, navigating the legal system and dealing with insurance companies can be tricky and overwhelming.

At William Rawlings & Associates, we have years of experience in handling car accident injury claims. We will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.

Claim Filing Delays

Another common mistake lawyers often see is individuals waiting too long to file a claim. Statutes of limitations vary from state to state, but it's important to be aware of the time limits for filing a claim in your state.

If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. It's always best to consult with a car accident attorney as soon as possible after an accident, so they can ensure that all necessary paperwork and filings are done in a timely manner.

Inaccuracies or Missing Information

One of the most preventable mistakes when filing a car accident injury claim is providing inaccurate or incomplete information. This can lead to lengthy delays in processing your claim and may even result in a denial of compensation.

To avoid this, make sure to double-check all information and provide any supporting documents or evidence as requested. Your car accident attorney can also help review your claim for accuracy before it is submitted.

Accepting a Quick Settlement

Some insurance companies may offer a quick settlement immediately after an accident. While this may seem like a convenient solution, it's important to remember that these initial offers are often much lower than what you may be entitled to.

Before accepting any settlement, consult with a car accident attorney who can evaluate the full extent of your injuries and calculate the appropriate amount of compensation for your case.

By avoiding these common mistakes and enlisting the help of a trusted car accident attorney, you can navigate the process of filing a car accident injury claim with confidence and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries. Don't hesitate to reach out to William Rawlings & Associates for expert legal guidance and support during this challenging time - we're here to help with all your auto accident injury lawyer needs around SLC, Provo, Draper and nearby parts of Utah!

There are many settings where hiring a lawyer after a car accident is important, whether for dealing with insurance companies, filing a personal injury lawsuit or various others. Ensuring proper timing for hiring an attorney is vital to avoid any mishaps or delays, plus will allow you to obtain valuable legal advice throughout the process.

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're happy to offer a wide range of car accident attorney services for clients around Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo and nearby areas of Utah. We'll take your call and assist you no matter where you are in the recovery or insurance process, but certain timing for hiring an attorney is often optimal. Here are some basics to understand when it comes to when to contact a car accident lawyer.

Contact a Lawyer After a Car Accident

Health and Well-Being Come First

While we certainly understand the desire to contact a car accident attorney as quickly as possible after an accident, one area that this should never supersede is your own personal health and well-being. This remains the top priority for anyone involved in an accident, and you should always seek medical attention immediately if necessary.

Furthermore, if anyone else in your vehicle was also injured, your first priority should be to ensure they receive proper medical attention as well. Only after you have addressed any immediate health concerns should you begin to think about contacting an attorney.

Police and First Responders

Down related lines, another important step to take immediately after a car accident is contacting the police and any necessary first responders. This will ensure that a proper investigation takes place, plus that all involved parties are accounted for. Personal injury lawsuits may require full documentation of this type, so it's vital not to miss it.

Car Accident Attorney As Soon As Possible

Once you've attended to those vital first steps, however, it's important to contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible. This will help ensure you don't miss any critical filing deadlines or make mistakes that could harm your case in the long run.

For instance, a car accident lawyer can give you specific advice about what to say and not say to police or other responders at the time of the accident, helping you avoid potential pitfalls down the road. They can also help advise you on what evidence to gather and how to document your injuries for insurance purposes.

Avoiding Legal Mistakes

Car accidents can be complex legal matters, and it's easy for those without experience in this area to make mistakes that could harm their case. By hiring an attorney early on, you'll have the guidance and expertise needed to ensure everything is handled correctly from a legal standpoint.

Don't wait until it's too late - contact William Rawlings & Associates today if you've been involved in a car accident and need legal representation.

Risks of Delaying a Car Accident Attorney Call

There are several notable risks that come with delaying a call to a car accident attorney after an incident. These include the following:

It's important to prioritize your health and well-being after a car accident, but as soon as possible, contact a car accident attorney to protect your legal rights. Waiting too long could result in missed deadlines, loss of evidence or even giving insurance companies an advantage. At William Rawlings & Associates, we're dedicated to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve after a car accident. Don't hesitate to reach out for a consultation and let us guide you through the legal process, whether you're in SLC, Draper, Provo or any nearby part of Utah.

You may be asking yourself several important questions in the aftermath of any car accident you're involved in, and one of these surrounds whether hiring a car accident attorney might be the right move. "Do I need a lawyer for a car accident?" is one of the most frequently asked questions in this realm.

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're proud to offer the very best car accident lawyer services you'll find around Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo and nearby areas of Utah. Here's a basic primer on whether you need a car accident lawyer, some settings where car accident lawyers can be immensely, and some of the benefits of hiring a car accident attorney.

Lawyer After a Car Accident

You Always Have the Right to A Car Accident Lawyer

While we'll go over some specific settings or situations in which a car accident attorney can be directly beneficial to you, it's vital to remember that this is always your right. You're never required to hire a lawyer or any other representation after a car accident, but having one on your side can greatly increase the chances of getting the compensation you deserve.

Remember that insurance companies and other parties will often try to take advantage of your lack of legal knowledge or experience to offer you less than what you truly deserve, and a car accident attorney is here to help.

Insurance Companies and Hiring a Car Accident Attorney

One of the most common settings where hiring a car accident attorney is vital is when you're dealing with insurance companies. These entities are known for trying to find ways to reduce their own expenses, and one of the primary methods they do this through is by offering low settlements or taking advantage of those who don't have legal representation.

With an experienced car accident lawyer on your side, you'll never have to worry about being taken advantage of in this way. Your attorney will understand the tactics used by insurance companies and will fight for your rights to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Your attorney can help with a wide range of potential situations that come up regularly:

Determining Fault

Another common reason for hiring a car accident attorney is to determine fault in the accident. This can be a complex and confusing process, especially if multiple parties are involved or there are conflicting stories about what happened. Your attorney will thoroughly investigate the incident and gather evidence to support your case, helping you prove who was at fault and hold them responsible for their actions.

Filing Personal Injury Lawsuits

In other cases, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident in order to receive proper compensation for your damages. These lawsuits can be daunting and overwhelming, but with a knowledgeable car accident attorney by your side, you can navigate the legal system confidently and increase your chances of success.

Other Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney

There are several other benefits of hiring a car accident attorney that you should consider. These include:

While it is not always necessary to hire a car accident attorney after being involved in an accident, there are many situations where their expertise and representation can greatly benefit you. It's always important to consider your options and consult with a trusted attorney before making any decisions regarding your case. At William Rawlings & Associates, we are dedicated to helping our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve after a car accident. Contact us today for a consultation and let us fight for your rights, whether you're in SLC, Draper, Provo or any nearby area!

Not all kinds of vehicle accidents and resulting liability cases are created equal, and one of the simplest examples here is a comparison between car and truck accidents. There are many ways that car and truck accidents can vary, from the scope and size of damage to the kinds of resulting actions that take place.

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're happy to offer quality personal injury attorney services for any kind of vehicle accident, including car accidents, truck accidents and more. While the specifics of each individual case will obviously vary, let's look at some of the typical differences between car and truck accidents - from vehicle differences to accident scopes, injury and damage types, and more.

Comparing Car and Truck Accident Liability Cases

Size Differences

As you may have already assumed, perhaps the single largest difference between car and truck accidents is the size difference of the vehicles involved. Cars are generally much smaller than trucks, meaning that a truck accident can create much more serious damage and injuries to those involved.

This can trickle down to several other differences between car and truck accidents, such as the scope of the accident, the kinds of damage or injury types that are likely to be involved, and even insurance coverage.

Trucks Are Harder to Operate

When it comes to accident liability, the nature of the vehicle itself can play a role. Trucks are generally more difficult to operate than cars, and this can come into play if negligence is alleged in a truck accident case.

For example, if an inexperienced driver was behind the wheel of a truck at the time of an accident, this fact could be used as evidence that they were negligent or not taking the proper precautions. In other cases, an inexperienced driver may not be aware of the size differences between their vehicle and smaller cars, or other vehicles on the road, which could also come into play.

More Significant Injuries Are Possible

Due to the size and weight difference between cars and trucks, truck accident injuries can be much more serious than those sustained in car accidents. This is especially true when it comes to other vehicles, pedestrians or cyclists being involved in a truck accident. For this reason, liability cases involving truck accidents will often require a higher level of proof to determine negligence on behalf of one party or another.

However, it's important to note that this is not always the case. Car accidents can be extremely serious, and proof of liability can be equally difficult to produce. It's important to consult an experienced attorney no matter the kind of accident you are involved in.

Routine Maintenance and Liability

One area that is sometimes included in accident liability cases is the maintenance of the vehicle itself - and this is another area where car and truck accidents can differ.

Trucks are often subject to severe maintenance requirements, especially if they are used for commercial purposes. Therefore, in a truck accident case, it may be possible to introduce evidence that either the driver or the company failed to meet these requirements - such as regular oil changes or brake inspections - which could have contributed to or caused an accident.

On the other hand, while cars may also require regular maintenance and inspections, these are usually not as stringent - meaning that it's more difficult to argue that a car was negligently maintained in an accident case.

More Parties Possibly at Fault

With most car accident cases, at-fault parties will generally be limited to the drivers of each vehicle. However, with truck accident cases, there are often more parties that could be at fault - such as the owner of the truck, a load carrier or cargo company and other involved parties.

This means that when it comes to assigning blame in a truck accident case, more witnesses may need to be interviewed and evidence must be thoroughly examined to determine the cause of the accident.

At William Rawlings & Associates, our experienced personal injury attorneys are well-versed in a variety of different kinds of vehicle accidents - including those involving cars and trucks. We can help you understand your case, introduce evidence and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for any injuries or damage sustained. Contact us today for help with any car accident or truck accident case, or for any other personal injury attorney need around SLC, Provo, Draper and the rest of Utah.

There are a few harmful myths out there in the world of car accidents, and one is especially pervasive: The misconception that victims of minor car accidents never require an attorney or other legal representation. This simply isn't true - there are several reasons why it may benefit you to consult a lawyer even after a minor accident where you believe another party was at fault.

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're proud to offer comprehensive car accident attorney services for clients around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and nearby parts of Utah. We help with a variety of auto accident injury lawyer needs, including many accidents that might be considered "minor" by technical definitions - but that still involved significant pain and suffering for our clients that we were able to obtain just compensation for on their behalf. Here are some important reasons why consulting a lawyer is often important even if your accident is considered minor in nature.

Lawyer for Minor Accidents

Defining "Minor" Car Accidents

Before we get into some of the specifics around minor accidents, it's important to define what we mean by this term. In general, a "minor" car accident is one that may involve property damage, but does not involve immediate injuries being reported.

There are a number of examples of common minor car accidents, including:

Debunking the Myth

In such minor accidents, there are multiple factors that support the myth that a lawyer isn't needed. For one, the insurance company may offer to cover the damages in full without any additional negotiation or legal intervention. Additionally, the cost of hiring a lawyer may seem excessive for what appears to be a minor issue.

However, there are several reasons why you should still consider consulting an attorney after a minor car accident:

Protecting Your Rights

One of the single most important reasons to consult a lawyer after an accident, even a minor one, is to ensure that your rights are protected. A legal representative can help you understand the full extent of your damages and negotiate on your behalf for fair compensation.

This kind of advocacy is especially important in cases where the at-fault party may deny liability or try to shift the blame onto you. A lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses and build a strong case to support your version of events.

Maximizing Your Compensation

Finally, in any case where you've suffered injuries or property damage as a result of someone else's negligence, it's important to seek fair compensation. A knowledgeable car accident attorney can help you assess the true cost of your losses and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

At William Rawlings & Associates, we understand that even minor car accidents can have major impacts on your life. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to helping you navigate this difficult time and receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist with your case, whether you're in SLC, Provo, Draper or any nearby area of Utah!

There are several kinds of car accidents that may lead to liability cases and eventual compensation, and one of the most common is the rear-end accident. Who is at fault in a rear end collision? While there's a common answer that most people are familiar with, there are also a few additional factors to be aware of here.

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're proud to offer the very best car accident attorney services you'll find around Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo and nearby parts of Utah, with auto accident lawyers who boast decades of combined experience in helping clients obtain their just compensation. We handle many rear-end accidents and have a firm grasp on how negligence, fault and damages are typically determined in these cases. Here are some basics on who is at fault in rear-end collisions, some elements that can impact this answer, and more.

Rear End Collision

Back Driver More Commonly at Fault

Many of our readers are already likely familiar with the general trend that the back driver in a rear-end accident is often the one who's at fault. This is due to basic driving principles – it's each driver's responsibility to maintain a safe distance from those in front of them, and not doing so can lead to an accident that's their fault.

However, it's important to realize that this is not a hard-and-fast rule. There are certainly situations where the front driver may be at fault. We'll dig further into this in our next section.

Proving Negligent Conduct

When it comes to the practical results of proving fault in a rear-end collision - that is, obtaining compensation from the other driver's insurance company - one of the most important elements will be proving negligent conduct. Whether you're a back driver or a front driver, if you can prove that the other party was acting recklessly, carelessly or otherwise negligently, such as by texting while driving or tailgating, this may help show that they were at fault for the accident.

There are several forms of basic driving duty that either driver in a rear-end collision may breach, which could be considered negligence:

Front Driver Fault Factors

While they may be less common, there are also certain situations where the front driver may be at fault in a rear-end accident. For instance, if the front driver suddenly reverses or makes an unexpected U-turn without signaling and causes a collision, they may be found partially responsible for the accident.

Additionally, if there was a mechanical issue with the front car, such as a brake light being out or malfunctioning, this could also impact the fault determination. The front driver has a responsibility to keep their car in proper working condition and may be considered at fault if they fail to do so.

Possible Forms of Damages

There can be a few different forms of damages or compensation that may be available in a rear-end collision case, depending on the specifics of the situation. These include:

How a Car Accident Attorney Will Help

If you've been involved in a rear-end accident and are seeking compensation, it's important to consult with a qualified car accident attorney who can help guide you through the claims process. They will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence to prove negligence on the part of the other driver, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for any damages or injuries sustained.

At William Rawlings & Associates, our experienced car accident attorneys have a deep understanding of the laws surrounding rear-end collisions and will work diligently to protect your rights and obtain the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get back on the road to recovery, whether you're in SLC, Provo, Draper or any nearby area.

If you or someone close to you has recently been injured in a vehicle accident at the fault of another party, you may have a simple question: Is it worth hiring an attorney for a car accident case to ensure just compensation? The answer is often yes, and there are several ways an auto accident attorney will help you maximize your settlement or other forms of compensation in these situations.

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're here to provide the top auto accident attorney services you'll find around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and nearby areas of Utah, covering everything from car accidents to truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents and more. Here are some of the specific ways that our car accident lawyers help clients maximize their potential compensation for any injuries and other hardships they undergo due to an accident.

Auto accident attorney

Thorough, Extensive Investigation

One of the most important aspects of any auto accident case is determining who is at fault for the incident, and our car accident attorneys will assist you with this. We'll be here to help you collect and analyze all relevant data, including police reports, witness testimonies, camera footage and any other information that may come into play.

This thorough investigation process helps ensure that we have a strong understanding of the details of your accident, and can build a compelling case to prove the other party's liability. This is crucial for receiving fair compensation in any auto accident case.

Loss and Damage Assessment

Down related lines, our attorneys will also be here to help you assess and document all losses and damages incurred as a result of the accident. This includes not only physical injuries, but also any property damage, lost wages or earning potential, medical bills and other forms of financial hardship. We use this information to accurately determine the true value of your case and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

For instance, if you have been unable to work due to your injuries, our car accident attorneys may be able to help you recover lost wages or seek compensation for future lost earning potential. This can make a significant difference in your recovery and financial stability as you heal from the accident.

Knowing Deadlines and Limitation Statutes

Another vital role of an auto accident attorney is to ensure that you meet all necessary deadlines and limitations for filing a claim or lawsuit. In Utah, there is typically a four-year deadline for negligence lawsuits due to car accident injuries, but this can vary depending on the details of your case.

Missing these deadlines could result in losing out on potential compensation altogether, so it's important to have an experienced car accident attorney by your side who can guide you through the legal system and ensure that all necessary steps are taken in a timely manner.

Negotiating Fair Settlements

In many cases, insurance companies will try to offer low settlements or deny claims altogether in order to protect their profits. Our car accident attorneys know how to negotiate with these companies and fight for fair compensation on your behalf. We will not back down until we secure the best possible outcome for your case, whether through negotiations or taking the matter to court if necessary.

This includes not only covering your immediate expenses, but also considering any potential long-term effects of the accident on your physical and emotional well-being. Our attorneys will make sure that you are not taken advantage of during this difficult time and receive the compensation you deserve for your suffering.

Expert Trial Navigation

While rarer than settlements for most auto accident cases, some may require taking the matter to court in order to receive fair compensation. In this situation, it's crucial to have an experienced car accident attorney who is skilled in navigating the legal system and presenting a strong case on your behalf.

At William Rawlings & Associates, our attorneys are well-versed in trial litigation and will fight for your rights every step of the way. We understand that going to court can be a daunting and overwhelming experience, so we will provide guidance and support throughout the process to help you feel confident in your case.

Simple Advocacy

Finally, one of the most valuable aspects of working with a car accident attorney is having someone who can advocate for you and your rights throughout the entire process. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients receive just compensation for their injuries, and we will always put your best interests first.

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, our top priority is helping our clients receive just compensation for their auto accident injuries. We are committed to providing exceptional legal services and fighting for the rights of those who have been wrongfully injured. If you or a loved one has been involved in an auto accident in SLC, Draper, Provo or any nearby area of Utah, do not hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation with one of our experienced car accident attorneys. We're standing by to serve you.

While there are certain kinds of major car accidents where actions like calling a car accident attorney tend to be more obvious and standard, but also some less severe accidents where people regularly wonder if this is actually necessary for their case. One great example is a basic situation where you've been rear-ended by another driver, possibly with limited vehicle damage and/or injuries - should you be hiring a car accident injury lawyer?

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're here to help with a huge range of car accident attorneys, truck accident attorneys, and related auto accident attorney services for clients around Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo, and other parts of Utah. Do you need to be hiring a lawyer after being rear-ended in Utah? Here are some of the key factors to consider, plus the benefits that our team of car accident attorneys offer to clients around the state.

Hiring lawyer after being rear-ended in Utah

Utah is a No-Fault State

One of the first things to remember when it comes to any kind of car accident case is the state in question, and here you have an important item to keep in mind: Utah is a no-fault state. This means that regardless of who is at fault in a given crash or accident, each driver will need to file a claim with their own insurance provider.

In addition, this also limits your ability to sue the at-fault driver for damages. If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to speak with a car accident injury lawyer who can help navigate these laws and ensure that you receive proper compensation for any injuries sustained.

Even "Minor" Accidents Can Have a Major Impact

Within the realm of car accidents, it's common for people to believe that minor accidents don't require legal representation. However, even in cases where there may only be minor vehicle damage or seemingly minor injuries, the long-term effects can still be significant. For example, a seemingly minor neck injury from being rear-ended can develop into chronic pain or other more serious conditions over time.

An experienced car accident attorney can help you understand the full extent of your injuries and fight for proper compensation, even in cases that may seem minor at first. Additionally, a car accident lawyer can help negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair settlement offers.

Settlements Are Common

When it comes to car accident cases, the majority are settled outside of court through negotiations between insurance companies and attorneys. This means that it's highly unlikely you'll need to go through a lengthy trial process if you hire a car accident attorney.

This also highlights the importance of having an experienced car accident attorney on your side. They will have the skills and knowledge to negotiate with insurance companies and ensure that you receive just compensation for any damages or injuries.

Insurance Companies Aren't on Your Side

While many insurance companies like to pretend that they have their client's best interests in mind, the reality is that their main priority is to save money. This means that they may try to offer low settlement amounts or deny claims altogether.

Having a car accident attorney on your side can help level the playing field and ensure that you receive fair treatment from insurance companies. They will work to protect your rights and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

Other Benefits of Car Accident Attorneys

On top of the specific benefits mentioned above, there are other advantages to hiring a car accident attorney after being rear-ended in Utah. For example, they will handle all communication with insurance companies and other parties involved in the case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. They can also provide valuable advice and guidance throughout the legal process.

If you've been involved in a car accident, no matter how minor, it's always a good idea to consult with a car accident attorney. They can help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don't hesitate to reach out to William Rawlings & Associates for expert legal representation in SLC, Draper, Provo, or any nearby part of Utah. Our team is here to provide the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.

While most people are aware that they should be hiring an attorney for any major car accident in which they were injured by the fault of another party and are seeking just compensation, some have understandable questions about whether this is necessary for a more minor accident. And while we understand this question, the reality is that it's actually often framed in the wrong way. 

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we proudly provide the very best auto accident lawyer, truck accident attorney and related vehicle accident services around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper or any nearby part of Utah. We serve clients across all types of vehicle accidents, even including many that some would consider "minor" in nature - and we're here to tell you that the severity of the accident itself actually isn't the largest factor in whether you should hire an attorney. Here are some basics on why this is the case, some misconceptions about "minor" accidents, and when it makes sense to call a car accident attorney. 

errors vehicle accident liability

Injuries Can Still Happen in "Minor" Accidents

You may have noticed that we keep putting the word "minor" in quotation marks, and there's a reason for that - because many accidents that are labeled as "minor" by those involved can actually cause significant injuries. In fact, it's not uncommon for someone to walk away from an accident thinking they're fine, only to find out later that they have whiplash, soft tissue damage or other similar issues. 

Furthermore, even supposedly minor accidents can cause immediate, severe injuries. These include traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and other problems that require immediate medical care and can lead to long-term effects. So even if your accident seems minor, it's always best to get checked out by a doctor just in case - and this is especially true if you're hoping to seek any type of financial compensation for the damages caused.

"Minor" Accidents Can Still Cause Major Damage

Another misconception about "minor" accidents is that they don't cause significant damage to vehicles. In reality, even low-speed collisions can result in expensive repairs or even total losses for your vehicle. And if the accident was caused by someone else's negligence, you shouldn't be responsible for paying these costs out of pocket.

Moreover, even if the damage to your vehicle is minimal, it's important to remember that it's not just about the physical damage. The emotional stress and inconvenience caused by a car accident can be significant, and you shouldn't have to shoulder these burdens alone.

Legal Necessity of Reporting Accidents - Even "Minor" Ones

Down somewhat related lines, it's vital to remember that "minor" accidents still need to be reported to the authorities and your insurance company, just like any other accident. Failure to do so can lead to legal complications and jeopardize any potential claims you may have for compensation.

Value a Car Accident Attorney Brings to the Table

Even if your accident is considered "minor", it's still a good idea to consult with a reputable car accident attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process, handle negotiations with insurance companies and ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation you're entitled to. 

Additionally, they can provide valuable insight into the true extent of your injuries and damages, helping you accurately assess the value of any potential settlement offers. And in the event that a settlement can't be reached, having an experienced car accident attorney on your side can greatly improve your chances of success if you need to take the case to court.

What a Car Accident Attorney Will Do

When you contact our office, our team of experienced attorneys will immediately begin working on your case. We'll gather all the necessary information and evidence, handle communication with insurance companies, and fight for your rights every step of the way. We handle everything from liability and injury assessment to negotiating settlements and representing you in court, so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. 

Don't let the term "minor" accident fool you - if you've been injured in any type of vehicle accident, it's always best to consult with a car accident attorney to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Don't hesitate to reach out to William Rawlings & Associates for a free consultation and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve, whether you're in SLC, Provo, Draper or any nearby area of Utah. We also assist with numerous other personal injury lawyer needs and case types.

While it's somewhat common (and understandable) to hear people complain about the areas of their lives that insurance doesn't cover, there's actually a flip side to this as well. There are a number of injury types that you may not have ever thought would be covered by insurance, but actually are - including several common injury types that often result in personal injury claims. 

At William Rawlings & Associates, we have decades of experience dealing with insurance companies as we strive for just compensation for our personal injury clients around Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo and other parts of Utah. While many of our cases are in more well-known areas like car accidents or child injuries, we also help with lesser-known case types like passenger claims, malpractice suits and more. Whether it's your insurance or the insurance of a different liable party that's providing the compensation, here are several examples of surprising injury types you may not have realized are often covered by insurance.

injuries slip fall cases

Passenger Accident Claims

As we alluded to above, a great example here is passenger claims. What happens if you're not the driver in a car accident, but rather are just an innocent passenger – perhaps even with no control over the vehicle at all? 

In these cases, insurance companies will often provide coverage for personal injuries that occur to passengers, as long as they were not behaving negligently themselves. In cases where it's determined that a separate party in a different vehicle caused the accident, they may be responsible for your compensation via their insurance even if you were a passenger in a car that wasn't theirs. 

Dog Bites

Many people don't realize this, but dog bites are actually covered by homeowner's insurance in most cases. This includes both incidents that occur on the owner's property and those where the dog is taken off-site, such as to a park. Dog bite claims often include not just physical injuries, but also property damage or trauma compensation as well.

Once again, it's important to note that in some cases, the owner's insurance may not cover bites if they occur due to negligence or intentional harm. But more often than not, dog bite claims are eligible for compensation from insurance providers. 

Defective Product Injuries

There are a few parties that may be considered at fault for injuries that occur due to a defective product: The manufacturer, the distributor or the seller of the product. In many cases, these parties will have some form of insurance coverage that can provide compensation for any resulting personal injuries. 

This is especially important to note if you've been injured by a defective product and are considering filing a lawsuit – even if it's not clear at first who the liable party is, it's often possible to receive compensation from some form of insurance coverage. Make sure to discuss this with your personal injury attorney as you consider your options for seeking compensation. 

Medical Malpractice

Another common area where people may not realize insurance is often involved: Medical malpractice. In many states, doctors and medical professionals are required to carry malpractice insurance as a form of financial protection for those who may be injured in their care. 

This means that if you suffer an injury or illness due to negligence or error by your doctor, you may be eligible for compensation from their insurance company. This also includes professionals like dentists, therapists, and nurses. 

Slips and Falls

Depending on the circumstances, injuries that occur due to slip and fall accidents may also be covered by insurance. For example, if a business owner is found negligent in maintaining safe conditions on their property and you suffer an injury as a result, their liability insurance may cover your medical expenses or other damages. 

Injuries Usually Not Covered

While we've spent most of this blog going over injuries that are often covered by insurance in some way, here are some examples of those on the flip side - that will almost never be covered:

It's important to understand the extent of insurance coverage when it comes to personal injury claims. While there are many common injury types that are often covered, there are also several that typically are not. 

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we are dedicated to helping our clients receive the compensation they deserve for their personal injuries. Our experienced team is well-versed in dealing with insurance companies and will work tirelessly to fight for your rights and just compensation. If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury around SLC, Draper, Provo or any other part of Utah, contact us today for a free consultation.

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