Taking the right actions after sustaining an injury that you believe is the fault of another party is very important, and slip and fall accidents are a good example. Like many other kinds of injuries, a few simple actions will help you not only recover ideally from any injuries sustained, but also receive just compensation from another party if they were liable.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're here to offer the best personal injury attorney services available around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and nearby parts of Utah, with personal injury lawyers who handle numerous case types - slip and fall injuries among them. Here are some basic tips from our personal injury attorneys on the right steps to take if you've been in a slip and fall accident and believe another party is liable.
Before we get into the steps you should take after a slip and fall accident, it's important to understand that not all of these accidents are equal in terms of liability. Here are some common types of slip and fall accidents:
Like many other injuries, the first step to take after a slip and fall accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine initially, it's important to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Injuries sustained in accidents can sometimes take time to manifest, and getting prompt medical care can improve your chances of a full recovery.
For instance, you may have sustained a concussion or internal injuries that aren't immediately apparent. A medical professional will be able to diagnose and treat these injuries before they become worse.
It's important to document as much information about the slip and fall accident as possible, as this can help your personal injury attorney build a strong case for liability. Some essential pieces of documentation include:
If you believe another party is responsible for your slip and fall accident, it's important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. They will be able to review your case and advise you on the best course of action. In addition, they can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
At William Rawlings & Associates, we have experienced personal injury attorneys who are dedicated to helping our clients get the justice they deserve after sustaining injuries in slip and fall accidents.
While it may be tempting to post about your slip and fall accident on social media, it's important to avoid doing so. Insurance companies can use these posts against you to try and devalue or deny your claim. It's best to refrain from posting anything about the accident until your case has been resolved.
Keep track of all expenses related to your slip and fall accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and any other costs incurred as a result of the injury. This information will be useful for determining the amount of compensation you are entitled to.
If you've been in a slip and fall accident that you believe was the fault of another party, it's important to take the right steps to protect yourself and your rights. By seeking medical attention, documenting the accident, and working with a personal injury attorney, you can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
Don't hesitate to contact William Rawlings & Associates today to discuss your case and receive expert legal guidance. Our personal injury attorneys are here to help with a huge range of personal injury cases, from slip and fall injuries to auto accidents, child injuries, dog bite cases and more. Contact us today for help with any such case around SLC, Provo, Draper or nearby parts of Utah.
While important concepts like physical injuries and pain levels are naturally some of the most important to consider during any kind of personal injury claim, they are not the only ones that often play a role in the outcomes of these cases. There are also non-physical impacts that can take place as a result of various forms of personal injury, and the realm of emotional trauma is one that cannot be overlooked here.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're here to provide the very best personal injury attorney services available to clients around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and other parts of Utah - from car and truck accident cases to wrongful death, child injuries, dog bite injuries and more. Emotional trauma is a regular consideration within many of our cases, and we're here to ensure our clients are compensated for these kinds of concerns as well as physical ailments that rise from their injuries. Here are some basics on how emotional trauma is defined legally, how emotional trauma can factor into your personal injury claim, and how our personal injury attorneys will assist you in this vital area if applicable to your case.
Also sometimes called emotional distress, emotional trauma is an issue that refers to any kind of mental or psychological injuries or consequences that come from a particular event. While not as tangible as physical injuries, emotional trauma can have just as significant an impact on a person's life. In some cases, emotional trauma may also have physical elements tied to it as well.
There are several symptoms or visible signs of emotional trauma that may be present in personal injury cases, including:
It's vital to remember that if you're dealing with emotional trauma following a personal injury event, you deserve compensation just as much as someone who has suffered physical pain. Our team of experienced attorneys will work alongside you to make sure this happens, including several elements which we'll go over in our next section.
When it comes to emotional trauma and your personal injury claim, the primary method of gaining compensation will be showing how this trauma has impacted your quality of life and wellbeing. This means providing documentation and evidence that backs up any claims you make in this area.
There are several potential areas where a personal injury attorney might assist you here:
Furthermore, a personal injury attorney will handle all the important details of including emotional trauma in your claim. They will file the required paperwork and speak to insurance companies on your behalf, taking the burden off of you during this difficult time.
If you're dealing with emotional trauma following a personal injury event, don't wait another day to reach out to William Rawlings & Associates for assistance. Our experienced attorneys will help you get the compensation you deserve for all impacts related to your injuries. Contact us today to learn about our personal injury attorney services for clients around SLC, Provo, Draper and other parts of Utah.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 key parts of many personal injury cases that involve gathering information and testimony from various witnesses or participants, and one of the most notable in many such cases is a deposition. And because a deposition is also often one of the most "official" early parts of the process, involving testimony given under oath in a courtroom setting, many clients naturally wonder what happens after a deposition in a personal injury case.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're proud to provide the very best personal injury attorney services available around Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo and nearby parts of Utah. Our experienced team handles needs ranging from auto accident lawyer services to child injuries, dog bites and numerous other injury types, and we walk clients through the entire process - including depositions and everything that comes after them. Here are some basics on what happens at the deposition itself, plus the important next steps after the deposition and what you should be thinking about.
For those who are approaching their first deposition, it's normal to be a bit nervous about the process. It's important to remember that this is simply a discussion between you and the other parties involved in the case, including both attorneys and possibly an official court reporter. The purpose of this discussion is to get a better understanding of what happened leading up to your injury, as well as any relevant details about the accident itself.
During deposition, you will begin by taking an oath to tell the truth. Then, both sides will have a chance to ask you questions regarding your case. These questions are typically open-ended and can cover various aspects of your life, such as your background, employment history, medical history, and more. You should answer all questions truthfully and to the best of your ability. Your attorney will be present to object to any irrelevant or improper questions.
Furthermore, the deposition will cover the actual events of the accident in question. This may involve questions about how it occurred, any factors that contributed to it, and your overall understanding of what happened. The opposing attorney may also ask you to describe your injuries and provide information about medical treatment you have received.
It's of paramount importance to be completely honest during the deposition. Lying or providing false information can have serious consequences, including potential perjury charges.
Our next several sections will go over the important steps that are taken after all or most depositions in personal injury cases.
During the deposition, a court reporter will be recording everything that's said so an official transcript can be created afterward. This transcript will include all questions and responses given during the deposition. After the deposition is completed, this transcript may be used in court or for further evidence gathering.
Once it has been completed, your attorney will review the transcript to ensure its accuracy. Any necessary corrections or changes can be made at this time before submission to the court. This process may take a few weeks in some cases.
In some cases, the defendant's insurance company may request that you undergo a medical examination by a doctor of their choosing. This is known as an Independent Medical Examination (IME) and is used to assess the extent of your injuries and any potential pre-existing conditions.
Your attorney can help you prepare for this examination and may also request that a medical professional of your choosing is present as well. It's important to remember that the doctor performing the IME is not your treating physician and their report may be used against you in court.
After depositions have been completed and all evidence has been gathered, both sides will usually enter into negotiations in an attempt to reach a settlement. This involves discussing the case with each other and trying to come to an agreement on a fair compensation amount.
Your attorney will play a crucial role during this process, advocating for your best interests and fighting for the compensation you deserve. In some cases, mediation or arbitration may be necessary if negotiations fail.
As noted, if negotiations are unsuccessful, the next step may be mediation or arbitration. These involve bringing in a neutral third party to help facilitate discussions and potentially come to a resolution.
In mediation, both parties will work together with the mediator to find common ground and come to an agreement. In arbitration, however, the neutral party acts as a judge and makes a final decision on the case after hearing all arguments from both sides.
If the parties are able to reach a settlement through negotiations, mediation or arbitration, then the case will be resolved without going to trial. However, if no agreement can be reached, then the case will proceed to trial where a judge or jury will make a decision on the matter.
Depositions are an important part of any personal injury case and should be taken seriously. It's important to work closely with your attorney and follow their advice during this process. And remember - even after the deposition is complete, there are still important steps to take before your case is resolved.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we are committed to providing personalized and comprehensive legal services for our clients in Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo, and nearby parts of Utah. If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. Let us fight for your rights and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Tax implications are commonly a topic that must be considered in various settings, and any kind of personal injury settlement you're receiving is a good example. Are personal injury settlements tax deductible? The answer is often yes, but there are some important nuances to be aware of.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're here to offer the very best personal injury attorney services you'll find in Salt Lake City, Draper, Provo and nearby areas of Utah, from top car accident injury attorneys to various other case types. Here are some basics on whether personal injury settlement funds are taxable or not, both at the federal level and within the state of Utah.
Firstly, for those who are involved in their first personal injury case, it's important to understand just what a personal injury settlement entails. This refers to any funds that are paid out in an agreement between two parties when one has been injured due to the fault of another person; for instance, in a car accident, medical malpractice situation or slip and fall incident.
These settlements are usually negotiated as part of avoiding a trial, which can be both time-consuming and costly for all involved. During these negotiations, a number of different factors might be considered, such as pain and suffering, medical expenses and various others.
We'll start off with some good news: For the most part, personal injury settlements are not taxable at the federal level. This is because they're considered to be compensation for physical injuries or illnesses, rather than income.
There are a couple notable exceptions here, however:
Outside these and certain other extremely nuanced exceptions, though, personal injury settlements are generally not taxable at the federal level.
At the state level, things tend to get a bit more nuanced. Settlements for personal injury in Utah can contain several components. Here are some basics on each, plus a breakdown of the likelihood of tax deductible status for each of them - though as we'll note in a few of these areas, there aren't always hard and fast answers here:
It's important to understand the tax implications of any personal injury settlement you may receive. While most settlements are not taxable at the federal level, there are certain exceptions that could result in taxation - such as punitive damages or settlements for emotional distress without a physical component. At the state level in Utah, things can get even more nuanced with different components of a settlement potentially being taxed differently.
It's always best to consult with a trusted personal injury attorney like those at William Rawlings & Associates to ensure you are properly informed and prepared for any potential tax implications related to your personal injury settlement. Our experienced team is always ready to help you navigate the complex legal landscape and provide you with the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve, whether you're in SLC, Draper, Provo or any nearby part of Utah.
If you've been injured in any kind of accident or event where another party may be liable, it may be hugely beneficial for you to utilize the services of a personal injury lawyer to help you obtain just compensation. If you decide to go this route, there are several factors to consider when it comes to how to pick a personal injury lawyer.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're proud to offer the very best personal injury attorney services you'll find around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and nearby areas of Utah, including everything from car accident injury lawyer services to other vehicle accidents and various other kinds of injuries like dog bites, brain injuries, trampoline injuries and more. Here are some important areas to be considering as you search for the ideal personal injury lawyer to help you obtain fair compensation from an insurance company or another party for your injuries.
First and foremost, you should only be considering personal injury lawyers who are fully licensed to practice in the area where your accident occurred. This may seem obvious, but it's important to verify that the lawyer you choose is legally able to represent you in court.
You might be surprised at the number of unlicensed or disbarred lawyers who continue to practice in certain areas, so it's always a good idea to do your due diligence and research the lawyer's credentials before moving forward with them.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a personal injury lawyer is their experience and expertise in handling cases similar to yours. Every case is unique, but having a lawyer who has successfully handled cases similar to yours can give you confidence in their abilities.
You may also want to ask about their success rate in obtaining fair compensation for their clients. A reputable personal injury lawyer should be transparent about their past cases and outcomes.
A well-regarded reputation is essential in a field like personal injury law. It's important to look for a lawyer with a strong track record, which you can do in a few basic ways:
In any legal case, communication is key. When choosing a personal injury lawyer, make sure to consider their communication style and how accessible they are to clients. You want a lawyer who will keep you informed throughout the entire process and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Additionally, it's important to choose a lawyer who will give your case personal attention and not treat you as just another number or paycheck. A good personal injury lawyer should prioritize their clients' needs and be dedicated to getting them the best possible outcome.
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you receive a settlement or win your case in court. However, it's important to clarify their payment structure before moving forward with hiring them.
Make sure to discuss any potential fees or expenses that may come up during the legal process so there are no surprises later on. It's also important to have a clear understanding of what percentage of the settlement or award the lawyer will take as their fee.
In addition to our note at the start of this blog about ensuring full bar licensure, there are a couple other red flags to watch out for when choosing a personal injury lawyer:
At William Rawlings & Associates, we pride ourselves on our dedication to our clients and our track record of success in obtaining fair compensation. We understand that choosing a personal injury lawyer can be overwhelming, but we hope this guide has provided some helpful tips for you. If you have been injured in an accident around SLC, Provo, Draper or any nearby part of Utah, don't hesitate to contact us for a free consultation!
There may be a lot you're trying to understand if you're part of a personal injury lawsuit, and one major element here is the expected or likely timeline of your case. How long does a personal injury lawsuit take? There are several factors that go into answering this question.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're here to help with a wide range of personal injury attorney services, from car and truck accident lawyer services to other forms of personal injury like slip and fall cases, dog bite injuries and many more to clients around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and nearby areas of Utah. Here's a rundown of what you can expect in terms of typical steps for a personal injury case, plus some of the key factors that influence your expected timeline and what to know about each of them.
While these may vary somewhat between individual cases, here's a basic rundown of how a personal injury situation and case will typically unfold:
Which additional factors tend to influence how long these basic steps will take? Our next few sections will dig into this.
One key factor here is how severe your injuries are. If you have minor injuries that heal quickly, the timeline of your personal injury case will likely be shorter than one where you suffer major or even lifelong disabilities as a result of the injury. In these latter cases, there may be additional medical treatments and evaluations required before a final settlement or trial can occur.
For instance, if you've suffered major head trauma in a car accident, your personal injury case may need to wait until doctors can determine the full extent of any lasting brain damage before it can move forward. If this process takes several months or even years, so too will your case.
Another factor here is the overall complexity of your case. In some situations, a personal injury case may be straightforward and fairly simple to resolve. However, in others, there may be multiple parties involved or difficult legal questions that require extensive research and investigation to answer. This could lead to a much longer timeline for your case.
For example, disputes regarding liability may arise in cases where more than one party is deemed responsible for your injuries. This can lead to lengthy negotiations and even further delays if the case needs to go to trial.
As mentioned, gathering evidence is a key step in any personal injury case. However, certain types of evidence may be harder to obtain than others, leading to delays in the timeline. For instance, security footage from a store or restaurant that captures your slip and fall accident may have been erased by the time your attorney requests it. In these cases, alternative methods of proving liability will need to be explored which can prolong the case.
Furthermore, some cases may require expert testimony or evaluations which can also take time to schedule and obtain. These factors can all play a role in extending the timeline of a personal injury case.
In many personal injury cases, insurance companies are involved in some capacity. Whether it's your own insurance or that of the defendant, dealing with insurance companies can add significant time to your case. These companies may delay settlement negotiations or use other tactics to prolong the process and avoid paying out large sums of money.
Lastly, it's important to consider the current backlog within the court system. Depending on where you live, there may be a high volume of cases being heard at any given time, which could lead to delays in scheduling your trial. This is another factor that can be out of your control and may add time to the overall timeline of your personal injury case.
While every personal injury case is unique, there are common steps and factors that influence the length of these cases. It's important to work closely with a trusted attorney who can guide you through the process and advocate on your behalf for a timely resolution. At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we have years of experience handling personal injury cases and will work tirelessly to ensure your case is resolved as quickly and fairly as possible. Contact us today 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.
There are a few forms of insurance that may be required as the driver of a vehicle in Utah, and one that should not be ignored is known as PIP insurance. Generally included as part of your broad car insurance plan, PIP insurance stands for personal injury protection - what is this form of insurance, and what does personal injury protection cover for drivers around the state?
At William Rawlings & Associates, we're happy to help clients around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and nearby areas of Utah with all their auto accident injury lawyer needs, plus varying other personal injury attorney services for any kind of injury or hardship you or someone close to you has undergone. Here are some basics on how PIP works, its requirements for Utah drivers, and some of the key areas it covers for any accident you're involved in.
For those just learning about personal injury protection in Utah, it's important to understand that this is a form of insurance that's specifically designed to cover any medical expenses or lost wages you may incur as the result of a car accident. PIP coverage can also include additional costs such as childcare and household services if needed due to injuries sustained in an accident.
Also known as no-fault insurance, PIP coverage is meant to provide quick and easy access to funds for immediate expenses following an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This helps alleviate financial stress and allows drivers to focus on their recovery.
In the state of Utah, personal injury protection is required as part of every car insurance policy. The minimum coverage amounts are $3,000 for medical expenses and $250 per week for lost wages. However, it's recommended that drivers opt for higher coverage limits in order to fully protect themselves in the event of a serious accident.
It's important to note that PIP insurance extends not just to the driver, but also to any passengers in the vehicle at the time of the accident. This allows for coverage of medical expenses and lost wages for all parties involved.
As mentioned previously, personal injury protection covers a variety of expenses related to car accidents. Here are some key areas that may be covered by your PIP insurance:
The most significant expense that PIP insurance covers is medical expenses related to a car accident. This can include hospital visits, doctor's appointments, surgeries, and any necessary medical treatments.
There may also be several associated medical expenses that will be covered by personal injury protection. Things like ambulance rides, X-rays, physical therapy and rehabilitation costs may all be included in your PIP coverage.
If you're unable to work due to injuries sustained in a car accident, PIP insurance can help cover lost wages. This includes both the time you miss from work immediately following the accident as well as any future lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
As we noted above, the limit here for Utah drivers is $250 per week or 85% of your lost income, whichever is lower. This compensation can extend for up to one full year after the accident.
In addition to medical expenses and lost wages, PIP insurance can also cover other related costs such as childcare or household services that may be needed due to your injuries. These additional expenses are meant to help you maintain your normal way of life while recovering from an accident.
It's important to review your policy carefully and understand exactly what is covered by personal injury protection in order to make sure you have adequate coverage for any potential expenses.
To limit the number of minor lawsuits filed over car accidents, Utah has a tort threshold in place. This means that if your injuries are minor enough to fall below a certain threshold, you cannot sue the at-fault driver for additional damages beyond what is covered by your PIP insurance.
However, if your injuries exceed this threshold or meet certain criteria such as permanent disability or disfigurement, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This is one of several areas where working with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. If you're unsure about your rights or how to navigate the complex legal process, don't hesitate to reach out to an experienced lawyer for guidance and representation.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we have a team of dedicated and experienced lawyers who are committed to helping you receive the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay anything unless we win your case. Contact us for help with auto accident injury or any other personal injury lawyer needs you may have around SLC, Provo, Draper and nearby areas of Utah!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you've been awarded a personal injury settlement in a recent case, or are expecting such a settlement sum in the near future, you may already be thinking about important areas like taxes and tax returns with regard to this sum of money. In particular, a common question is regularly asked in these scenarios: Is a personal injury settlement considered income that's then taxable on your yearly tax return?
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we happily assist clients around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and surrounding areas of Utah with all their personal injury attorney needs, from auto accident lawyer services and motorcycle accident attorneys to areas like dog bite claims, wrongful death and more. Here are some of the elements of a typical personal injury settlement, plus some of the ins and outs of whether they will be considered taxable income.
One of the more nuanced areas when it comes to personal injury settlements and taxation relates to medical bills. A couple relatively consistent tenets of IRS qualification to keep an eye on here:
Also known as mental anguish, this is another area that's somewhat nuanced. Generally, whether emotional distress portions of a personal injury settlement will be considered income will depend largely on whether these sums relate to the subject of the settlement itself.
That is, if you undergo emotional distress as the direct result of a physical injury like those mentioned above, it's unlikely the IRS will consider this taxable income. But if a settlement is based purely on emotional distress with no physical element involved, it may be considered income and taxed as such.
In most cases, any portion of your personal injury settlement that's specifically designated to replace lost wages from missed work as a result of the injury will be considered taxable income. In these cases, your employer may also be required to report this income and issue you a W-2 form at the end of the year.
However, if you are receiving disability payments for lost wages through an insurance policy, these generally will not be considered taxable income. This is because they are meant to compensate for lost wages and do not represent income.
For those unfamiliar with them, punitive damages refer to those set aside in cases where the defendant is found to have acted with gross negligence or malicious intent. These are meant as a punishment for such actions, rather than to compensate victims for specific losses.
The IRS considers punitive damages to be taxable income in most cases. This applies even if they're part of a personal injury settlement that also includes non-punitive sums – only the punitive portion will be taxed, while the others may not be if they meet the criteria outlined above.
In fact, punitive damage taxation tends to override some of the other basics we've gone over here. For instance, even if the punitive damages are directly related to physical injury or illness, they will not receive the same tax exemption that other portions of a settlement might.
In some cases, particularly if a large punitive damage payment was part of your settlement, you may consider investing some or all of the sum. In these cases, it's important to remember that any interest you receive from this investment will be considered taxable income – even if other portions of your settlement may not be.
In addition to these factors, there are some special considerations for certain types of personal injury settlements. For example, if your settlement includes reimbursement for attorney fees or legal costs, these may be considered tax-deductible. Additionally, if your settlement is paid out over multiple years, this could potentially impact the way it's taxed each year.
Ultimately, the specifics of your personal injury settlement will dictate its taxation – for these and any other relevant areas or questions, our experienced attorneys are here to provide guidance and expertise. Contact our team at the offices of William Rawlings & Associates to learn more about any of our personal injury attorney services around SLC, Provo, Draper or nearby areas of Utah.