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Injuries can take place in a variety of settings, some of them public, and one such example is injuries that may be sustained during a concert or music festival of any kind. If you're injured in such a setting, is there a chance of obtaining compensation from a liable party? How should you be proceeding in such a situation?

At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we're here to help. Our broad range of personal injury attorney services spans the entire gamut of potential injury types, from car and truck accidents to wrongful death, brain injuries and many other specific types of cases. Which responsibilities do those attending concerts or music festivals have to avoid injury of their own accord, and when do possible injuries sustained move past this threshold and possibly allow for liability claims to be filed? Let's go over all of this, plus who claims can be filed against and how to consider such situations.

proceed injured concert venue

General Responsibilities of Concert Attendees

Just like in many other public settings, anyone who attends a concert needs to know that there are certain responsibilities that come with the ticket. Concerns such as hygiene, crowd control and other basic rules of etiquette should all be taken into account by each attendee – not only in consideration of courtesy and respect for others, but also to avoid injury to oneself.

Furthermore, any possible hazardous activities or behaviors (such as moshing) should be avoided, as these can represent a potential risk to oneself and other attendees. When such risks are accepted, it's possible that an injured person may not be able to recover any damages from their injury.

It's important to note that in many such settings, "acceptable" behavior differs from what would normally be accepted in other public settings – so it's important to understand what is and isn't allowed before attending a concert.

Common Injuries That Happen at Concerts

For a variety of different reasons, some due to individual fault and some due to that of a third party, there are multiple injury types that are somewhat common at concerts:

And down similar lines to our first section, many of these common injury types are those concert-goers are expected to be aware of. If you're attending a concert in a hot outdoor location, for example, you're expected to be aware of this and have water and other cooling measures available - and if you sustain heat stroke as a result of not doing so, it's very unlikely you'll be able to file a claim against any party, as this is only your own fault.

Now, the above said, there are definitely situations where someone injured at a concert may have a case - whether that case is against an individual or, perhaps, against the concert venue. Let's look at some situations where either of these options could be on the table.

Claims Against an Individual

In certain situations, a person injured at a concert may have a case against an individual. This can happen when someone is, for example, purposely attacked or harassed at a concert. In such cases, there may be grounds to file a claim against the attacker or harasser.

To get a bit more specific, let's say you're attending a concert and are purposely punched in the face by someone else there. In this case, you likely have a strong case against them for assault as well as battery. If successful, such a claim may result in medical bills being paid out as compensation from the attacker.

That's because, even at an aggressive concert where mosh-pitting or other behavior was accepted, something like a direct punch to the face is definitely not part of that accepted behavior.

Claims Against a Venue

In other cases, there may be grounds for filing a claim against a venue or event organizer. This could be in cases where premises are not adequately monitored and managed, which could then lead to an injury due to negligence on their part. One common such instance involves incidents where not enough security was present, leading to an individual being injured in the midst of a fight or other altercation.

In such instances, if it can be proven that the event organizer was negligent in their duties, then they may be liable for any injuries sustained. This is because they did not provide enough security to protect attendees - something which falls within their obligations as organizers of a public event. As such, it could be possible to obtain compensation from them for medical bills and other damages that may have been caused.

There may also be cases involving unsafe premises, such as dangerous or defective stairs, or floors that are slippery due to liquids or other substances. Here too, there may be a case against the event organizers for failing to address such safety problems in a timely manner.

In any of these situations, it's best to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney before attempting to file any sort of claim. That way, you can be sure to have the best chance of success. And at the same time, having legal advice on your side can help ensure that any claims made are still reasonable and well within the boundaries of existing laws and regulations.

For more on this, or to learn about any of our personal injury attorney services, speak to our staff at the offices of William Rawlings & Associates today.

Have you been seriously injured in a Utah truck accident? Lawyers know the ins and outs of personal injury cases, and turning to an experienced local attorney is the best way to get the information and advice you need.

That said, injuries like yours might have you worried about the costs of medical care and your inability to work – and learning about the damages you may be entitled to may help ease your mind. Here, the experienced legal team at William R. Rawlings & Associates explains the basics.

truck accident lawyer Utah

What are Damages in a Truck Accident?

Personal injury lawyers use the term “damages” to refer to the monetary compensation an accident victim can pursue for their injuries and financial losses.

Personal injury cases are meant to hold a party or parties accountable for their actions, and to recover damages, you must be able to prove that someone else’s negligence directly led to the trucking accident and the injuries you suffered.

What if Multiple Parties are to Blame for a Truck Accident?

When more than one motorist is involved in an accident in Utah, the percentage of fault for each party affects the outcome of a personal injury case.

Utah has a comparative negligence law, which basically means that an assessment of a trucking accident is required to determine how much blame should be placed on each motorist. The amount of compensation you may receive from each party will be equivalent to their percentage of fault. And if you’re found to be at least 50 percent responsible for the accident, you may be barred from collecting any damages.

What Damages Can You Recover After a Truck Accident?

In Utah, truck accident victims have the legal right to pursue both economic and non-economic damages. In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded.

Economic damages, also known as special damages, are meant to provide compensation for actual, measurable financial losses related to the truck accident. A lawyer may recommend seeking these economic damages:

Non-economic or general damages in personal injury cases are meant to provide monetary compensation for intangible losses incurred in a truck accident. A lawyer can determine which of the following non-economic damages apply to your case:

Experienced truck accident lawyers know that punitive or exemplary damages are rarely awarded in the state of Utah. This is because punitive damages are intended to be a punishment for the at-fault party for gross negligence and to deter others from acting in the same manner.

When Can You Recover Damages for Your Losses?

Sometimes, the injured victim in a Utah truck accident and the at-fault party or parties come to an agreement in a timely manner – but that’s not the norm.

More often than not, people with serious injuries need to fight for the compensation they deserve. Many end up waiting far too long, and for some, filing a lawsuit is the only way to recover damages. Delays in the process are to be expected, yet you don’t have all the time in the world to resolve the situation.

In Utah, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is four years – and in your case, the clock started ticking on the day of your truck accident. Any lawsuit filed after that time won’t be legally valid. Be aware, too, that property damage claims have a three-year deadline. So, you have even less time to make a claim for compensation for your damaged vehicle and any other items in poor condition as a result of the accident.

Schedule a Truck Accident Lawyer Consultation Today

To recover damages as quickly as possible – and to receive the maximum in compensation for your injuries and losses -- you need an experienced Utah truck accident lawyer, one who knows how to win. That’s what you’ll get with William R. Rawlings & Associates.

Our legal team will fight to ensure that you receive every dollar you’re owed, and while we’re able to settle most personal injury cases, we’re not afraid to go to trial. Our truck accident lawyers have been representing injured victims like you for more than 35 years, and no other Utah law firm is as dedicated to reaching the best possible case outcome.

Working with William R. Rawlings & Associates is risk-free, as we don’t charge legal fees unless we obtain damages in a personal injury case – and the initial consultation is always free. To meet with one of the best truck accident lawyers in Utah, contact us today.

After being seriously injured in a motor vehicle crash, hiring a Utah car accident lawyer may not be on your mind at all. The car wreck itself was likely quite startling, and since then, your life has likely turned upside down. You may be both in need of ongoing medical treatment and unable to work, and taking part in activities you once loved may no longer be possible.

However overwhelmed you’re feeling, you still need to pay the bills – but as you’ll soon learn, trying to put your life back together while recovering from your injuries isn’t easy.

In theory, anyone who is injured in an accident caused by someone else should get have a simple way to get compensated for their losses. In reality, Utah personal injury claims are surprisingly complicated, and you may need help from an experienced car accident lawyer to get every dollar you deserve. Here are a few of the ways the right car wreck attorney can guide your injury claim toward the most favorable outcome.

auto accident lawyer Utah

Conducting an Investigation of the Car Accident

Finding out exactly what happened, how it happened and who was at fault is crucial for any Utah injury claim.

Your recollection of the events matters, of course, but after being in a crash with another motor vehicle, your memory may be a little fuzzy. Many factors and multiple parties may be involved, and you’ll need to paint a full picture of what caused the car wreck and what losses have been incurred as a result of the incident.

To accomplish that, you need information. A knowledgeable and experienced car accident lawyer will launch a thorough investigation, leaving no stone unturned as they look to get to the bottom of what led to your motor vehicle crash.

Gathering Evidence to Support Your Injury Claim

Knowing what happened is one thing, but proof is essential for a favorable outcome to a Utah personal injury claim.

Collecting the necessary evidence is linked to the investigation process – and as with other legal matters, injury claims arising from car wrecks often involve many different types of evidence. Medical records, police reports, photographs and witness statements are among the forms of proof that can play a critical role in case outcome.

A seasoned personal injury lawyer can help you by gathering proof to support your injury claim – and by using the collected evidence to craft a sound legal strategy. As such, hiring an attorney means putting your best foot forward as you fight for compensation.

Negotiating On Your Behalf with Other Parties

Personal injury claims related to Utah car wrecks frequently involve pushy insurance adjusters and other difficult defendants.

Communicating and negotiating with all of the parties involved can be a major burden when you’re trying to recover from serious injuries. And, if you happen to say the wrong thing to the wrong person, you could inadvertently undermine the value of your claim. Worse, your claim for compensation could be completely denied.

With the right Utah car accident lawyer on your side, you won’t have to worry about any of that happening. If you get a call from an insurance adjuster or another defendant, you can simply tell them to contact your attorney.

Fighting for the Maximum in Monetary Compensation

Insurance adjusters have one goal -- to minimize the amount of injury claim compensation or, better yet, eliminate it entirely.

For this reason, many insurance company representatives engage in underhanded tactics. When negotiating a fair settlement proves to be impossible, injured car wreck victims have one course of action – filing a lawsuit. Utah personal injury claims often settle after this, but there’s always the possibility of a case going to trial.

In any event, having a skilled and experienced Utah car accident lawyer can make a major difference in terms of case outcome. As research shows, car wreck victims who have attorneys receive much more money than those who represent themselves.

Get the Help You Need at William R. Rawlings & Associates

If someone’s reckless or careless behind-the-wheel conduct has caused you to be injured, the experienced car accident lawyers at William R. Rawlings & Associates in Draper, Utah, is ready to take the lead with your injury claim.

Our car accident lawyers have been helping others in your position for more than a decade, and you can rely on us to act as both your trusted legal advisor and a dedicated advocate -- and we’ll make every effort to ensure you’re fairly compensated for your injuries and losses. Our legal team handles injury claims on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t have to pay us a fee unless and until we win your case.

At William R. Rawlings & Associates, we offer free, no-obligation consultations to injured car wreck victims throughout northern Utah. To meet with a highly skilled and experienced Utah car accident lawyer, contact our Draper office today.

If you’ve suffered significant injuries in a car wreck, hiring an experienced Utah auto accident lawyer is in your best interests. However, with everything on your plate at the moment, you may not have had a chance to contact a local law firm yet – and you could get a call from the insurance company of the driver at fault for the crash at any point.

So, what should you do if that happens? What do auto accident lawyers in Utah say is the right way to respond? Read on for advice on how to approach your first post-accident phone call from an insurance adjuster.

car accident lawyer

Proceed With Caution

The conversation might start off on a friendly note, and the adjuster you speak with may even seem empathetic. Don’t be fooled – this person is not on your side.

For the insurance company of the other driver involved in your car wreck, the number one goal is to figure out a way to pay you as little as possible or, better yet, nothing at all. Insurance adjusters will try to trick you, and anything you say could end up harming your case. Remember this, and refrain from getting chatty.

Stay Calm and Be Polite

Auto accident lawyers in Utah say that the best way to handle a call from an insurance adjuster is to be courteous and speak in a professional manner.

You may be pretty upset about the car wreck and your injuries, but snapping at the adjuster won’t do any good – and that approach could be detrimental to your case, as your words could end up being used against you. Keep a cool head, and you’ll be better able to keep control over the conversation.

Don’t Agree to Be Recorded

If the insurance adjuster asks whether it’s ok to record the conversation – and they very likely will -- politely decline, saying that you aren’t comfortable being recorded.

They may make the request in a way that makes it seem like giving a recorded statement is the standard procedure. Or, the adjuster might use phrasing that makes you feel as if you’re obligated to comply. Neither is true, and auto accident lawyers caution that a recorded statement could be used to undermine your claim.

Take Notes During the Talk

The auto accident attorney you hire will want to know about your conversation with the insurance adjuster, so be sure to write down all of the key information as you talk.

Start by jotting down the name, address and phone number of the adjuster along with the name of the insurance company they’re with. As the conversation progresses, take notes on the information you provide and any you receive. Write down any requests that were made, too, and after the call ends, make sure your notes are complete.

Provide Only Basic Facts

The insurance adjuster will be trying to get you to talk about the auto accident, but attorneys say to politely refuse to provide anything but the most basic information.

Telling the adjuster your full name and address is fine, as is telling them the name of your employer. You can also disclose the vehicles involved and the identities of any witnesses. If pressed for details, auto accident lawyers suggest saying that your investigation is ongoing and you aren’t prepared to discuss more at this time.

Don’t Discuss Your Injuries

You can expect questions about your injuries, but you don’t need to provide any health information – not even the name of your doctor or where you’re getting medical care.

Keeping the nature and extent of your injuries to yourself is the best course of action. You might become aware of a new injury related to the car wreck, or your injuries could worsen as time goes on. Anything you say now might be inaccurate, so auto accident lawyers say to tell the adjuster you’re still in treatment and waiting for more information.

End the Conversation Firmly

When you don’t give the insurance adjuster much to work with, they’ll want to speak with you again, but ending the talk in a resolute manner can discourage repeat calls.

Auto accident lawyers in Utah recommend telling the adjuster that contacting you is unnecessary, as you have no other information to provide. Make it perfectly clear that you prefer limited contact in the future – and that you will never agree to settle without first discussing the matter with an experienced attorney.

Call an Auto Accident Attorney

Hiring a skilled auto accident lawyer is the best way to protect yourself after being seriously injured in a car wreck – and William R. Rawlings & Associates is here to meet your needs.

Insurance adjusters are tasked with the job of denying as many auto accident claims as they can. When they can’t deny a claim, their objective is to negotiate the lowest possible settlement. This is the type of work they do every day, and you need an attorney with just as much experience. You’ll find that at William R. Rawlings & Associates.

To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a highly qualified and experienced auto accident lawyer in Utah, contact us today.

Most people in Utah never think about talking to a car accident attorney until they need one. What’s more, many accident victims don’t know if they even need a lawyer.

If you’ve been injured in a fender bender that wasn’t your fault, should you make a point of consulting with a local legal professional? What can a lawyer do to help with the situation?

The truth is, a car accident attorney can play a vital role in the fight for fair compensation, protecting your rights and ensuring you get every dollar you deserve. Here, we discuss the primary reasons to hire an experienced Utah lawyer after suffering injuries in a motor vehicle collision.

Utah car accident attorney

Dealing With the Insurance Company

Insurance adjusters aren’t on the side of car accident victims. The companies they represent want to make a profit, so adjusters are tasked with the goal of reducing the amount of money that must be paid out – and some even find ways to deny completely valid claims.

Turning to an experienced Utah car accident attorney can be to your benefit, as a lawyer will:

Make sure that the legal professional you choose specializes in accident claims. Every case is different, but experience matters when it comes to insurance negotiation. With a seasoned car accident attorney on your side, you stand a much stronger chance of reaching a favorable case outcome.

Establishing Your Right to Compensation

Anyone who is injured as a result of another person’s actions has the right to seek compensation. But because the other parties involved in a motor vehicle collision may try to shift the blame, proving who is liable for your injuries and losses may be rather challenging.

An experienced car accident attorney can help. The right legal professional will build a solid case by:

Collecting all of the available evidence and working with the right specialists – which may include medical and mental health experts, financial specialists and experts in accident reconstruction – is advantageous as far as case outcome is concerned. An accomplished car accident attorney will know what’s needed to forge a strong claim.

Meeting All of the Legal Deadlines

When you’re injured in a fender bender, your priority should be on getting better. But the reality is, if you intend to seek compensation from the at-fault party, you don’t have all the time in the world to do so. The accident claim process may not move all that quickly, and there are several deadlines you’ll need to meet.

Reach out to a qualified Utah car accident lawyer, and you won’t have to worry about missing the following:

Failing to meet all of the legal deadlines can be a major problem, as it could mean you no longer have the right to pursue compensation. And while we wish you had the option of waiting until you’re ready to face the situation, you’re better off calling a car accident attorney as soon as possible.

Making Your Life Easier After the Accident

Recovering from a motor vehicle collision is physically, mentally and emotionally stressful. With all that’s going on in your life, you don’t need the added headaches and hassles that come with an accident claim. Your focus should be on getting well, gaining strength and figuring out how to move forward.

With an experienced car accident attorney, you’ll be in a better position to make progress on the road to recovery because:

In the wake of a fender bender, you really don’t need to be dealing with the difficulties of an accident claim on your own. Turning the matter over to a skilled and knowledgeable legal professional is in your best interests – both in terms of your recovery and the compensation you receive for your injuries and losses.

If you were recently injured in a motor vehicle collision in Utah, contact William R. Rawlings and Associates. Our legal team has handled thousands of accident claims, and we know how to help our clients get the maximum amount of monetary compensation for their losses. Plus, we never charge legal fees unless we’re successful in negotiating or litigating a claim.

For a free, no-obligation consultation with an experienced Utah car accident attorney, call William R. Rawlings and Associates today.

If you’ve been hit by a car while riding a bike, you suddenly face new challenges and concerns. The experienced Utah bicycle accident lawyers at William R. Rawlings & Associates are all too familiar with the devastating toll a bike crash can have – and you shouldn’t have to suffer due to the actions of a careless driver.

Dealing with the aftermath of a car-on-bike collision isn’t easy, particularly when you have serious injuries. To ease some of your worries, we’re sharing the answers to questions Utah cyclists commonly personal injury attorneys ask about bike crashes.

Utah bicycle accident lawyers

What Should You Do if You Get Hit By a Car While Cycling?

The steps you take after a car-on-bike collision can have a significant impact on the outcome of your accident case. To protect your rights, do the following:

Is Hiring a Utah Bicycle Accident Lawyer Really Necessary?

While legal representation isn’t required in Utah, hiring a bicycle accident lawyer is in your best interests. In case you aren’t aware, injured bike crash victims who work with attorneys tend to receive quite a bit more in compensation than those who represent themselves. And, letting a lawyer take over your case will decrease your stress, allowing you to focus on recovering rather than your mounting medical expenses.

How Long Should You Wait to Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer?

Anyone who is injured in a car-on-bike collision should get in touch with an experienced local lawyer as soon as possible. You do have a little leeway, as the statute of limitations in Utah for a bicycle accident case is four years from the date of the crash. However, working with an attorney early on is best, as they’ll be able to conduct an investigation while the evidence is fresh.

What If You Can’t Afford to Hire a Bicycle Accident Lawyer?

With most local legal professionals, your initial consultation is free of charge, with no obligation. If a Utah bicycle accident attorney takes your case, their legal fees will likely be contingent upon the outcome – and if they don’t recover any compensation, you won’t be charged for their services. If your lawyer wins or settles your case, you’ll pay for their work and the upfront expenses they covered out of the money you receive.

How Can You Pay for Medical Care After a Utah Bicycle Accident?

If you get hit by a car while cycling and you don’t have health insurance, you may be worried about getting slammed with medical bills. Bicycle accident lawyers suggest talking to your doctors, as they may be willing to provide treatment on a lien basis, meaning that they’ll wait to be paid out of your case proceeds. And if your medical providers aren’t agreeable, ask your attorney for help securing lien-based treatment.

Do You Need to Talk to the Insurance Company After a Bike Crash?

Speaking with representatives from the insurance company of the careless driver who hit your bike isn’t required – there’s no law in the state of Utah that says you must have a conversation. And, don’t give in to the pressure to give a recorded statement, because anything you say could be twisted and used against you. Instead, tell any insurance adjusters who call that they need to contact your bicycle accident attorney.

How Much Compensation Are You Entitled to After a Bike Crash?

In all honesty, this is a question that has no easy answer. Asking this is like asking how much money does it usually take to compensate an injured cyclist for their losses – and every case is unique. That said, an experienced bicycle accident attorney will pursue all possible damages, which may include:

Schedule a Free Consultation at William R. Rawlings & Associates

If a car-on-bike collision has left you with injuries, you should get advice from an experienced Utah bicycle accident lawyer soon. The legal team at William R. Rawlings & Associates has been representing injured cyclists for over 35 years – and our expertise gives us the ability to secure the maximum in compensation for our clients. Turn to our law firm, and you’ll have the help you need to get through this difficult time.

Let us protect your rights and fight for every dollar you deserve. To schedule a free consultation with an accomplished Utah bicycle accident lawyer, contact William R. Rawlings & Associates today.

Any type of motor vehicle accident has the potential to cause life-changing injuries. When that happens, calling a Utah catastrophic injury lawyer is the right move.

Accident claims that involve catastrophic personal injuries present unique challenges. The stakes in these cases are high, and the majority of the damages victims seek – including future medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment and emotional distress -- are inherently difficult to calculate. With so much on the line, insurance companies put up a fight before handing over compensation.

Experienced catastrophic injury lawyers know how to fight back and pursue a settlement or jury award that accounts for all past, current and future expenses. For accident victims with serious injuries, having legal counsel can be extremely beneficial.

catastrophic injury lawyer Utah

What is a Catastrophic Injury?

Generally speaking, catastrophic injuries are those which have a significant long-term impact on a person’s life. These types of injuries are often life-threatening, and they can result in a range of devastating consequences, including:

Accident victims with catastrophic injuries require intensive medical treatment, a lengthy rehabilitation program and, in some cases, specialized lifelong care. Many are unable to return to work or take part in activities they once enjoyed. A catastrophic injury can result in losses in just about every aspect of life.

Examples of Catastrophic Injuries

Any injury that can be described as serious and life-changing may be considered catastrophic. Specific examples of catastrophic injuries include:

Causes of Catastrophic Injuries

Any freak accident can result in catastrophic injuries, but statistically, certain types of incidents are more likely to bring on a personal injury of this nature. In Utah, the leading causes include:

Whatever the cause and whoever is to blame, experienced catastrophic injury lawyers can help victims pursue full compensation for all of their losses. And while no amount of money can make up for the pain, emotional suffering and dire life consequences, holding the at-fault party or parties accountable provides victims with some relief.

Compensation for Catastrophic Injuries

In Utah, anyone who is injured as a result of someone else’s actions has the right to seek out compensation for all of their losses. Catastrophic injury lawyers know how to determine which damages apply, and an accident claim may include the following:

Medical Expenses

For accident victims with catastrophic personal injuries, the cost of medical treatment can be significant. Injury lawyers fight to recover compensation for past, ongoing and future:

Economic Damages

Accident victims suffer a range of measurable monetary losses, known as economic or special damages. Experienced catastrophic injury lawyers pursue compensation for the following:

Non-Economic Damages

Catastrophic injuries come with intangible losses, referred to as general or non-economic damages. These aren’t easily quantified, but injury lawyers seek compensation for:

Working with a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

Are you an accident victim with catastrophic injuries? At William R. Rawlings & Associates, we represent people whose lives have been turned upside down due to a motor vehicle accident. With a catastrophic injury lawyer from our Utah law firm in your corner, you’ll have the legal help you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Our legal team can handle all of the work your accident claim requires. The steps we’ll take to help ensure a positive case outcome include:

We’ll work hard to secure a fair financial settlement, but if the negotiations break down, our catastrophic injury lawyers are ready to go to trial. We know how to get results – and since our legal team won’t get paid unless we’re successful in securing compensation, you can count on William R. Rawlings & Associates to make every effort to make sure that happens.

A free consultation with an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer is only a phone call away. For expert help with your Utah accident claim, contact us today.

Are you in need of help from a Utah personal injury lawyer? If so, there’s certainly no shortage of attorneys who specialize in this area of the law in our state. Legal professionals are plentiful – which can make choosing one a challenging task.

Finding the right personal injury lawyer is crucial for any accident victim. If you’ve been hurt in an accident and plan to pursue compensation from the at-fault party, you’ll want to interview at least a few local attorneys to determine which one is the best fit for your situation. Fortunately, most of the top-rated personal injury law firms in Utah, including William R. Rawlings & Associates, offer free initial consultations. As such, you can get the information you need to make a decision without opening your wallet.

How will you know which personal injury lawyer is the right one to hire? Asking these questions will help you find an attorney who can fight for the compensation you deserve.

personal injury lawyer Utah

How Long Have You Been Practicing Personal Injury Law?

In the field of personal injury law, experience matters – and you’re better off putting your case in the hands of a seasoned attorney. While years of experience doesn’t necessarily indicate a lawyer’s level of skill or ability, it does show that they know the ropes. A rookie is more likely to make mistakes, and a lack of real-world practice can lead to a less-than-desirable case outcome.

What Types of Injury Cases Do You Regularly Handle?

The field of injury law is broad, and many attorneys specialize in certain practice areas. Just as you wouldn’t hire a plumber to fix your roof, you wouldn’t want to hire a personal injury lawyer who only assists clients with Utah car accident claims if yours is a dog bite injury case or a wrongful death claim. An attorney without relevant experience may not have what it takes to fight for the maximum in compensation.

Do You Have Experience With Similar Injury Cases?

Don’t assume that a personal injury lawyer has worked on cases that are similar to yours. An attorney may routinely help car accident victims, for example, but your car accident claim could involve unique circumstances they’ve never seen. To get every dollar you deserve from the party at fault for your injuries and losses, you need to find a legal professional with experience resolving similar Utah accident claims.

What is Your Track Record for Settlements and Jury Awards?

Just because a personal injury lawyer has experience working on cases that are similar to yours doesn’t make them the person to hire. You need an attorney who wins the cases they take, someone who has a history of negotiating favorable settlements for accident victims. Make sure, too, that the lawyer has jury trial experience, as you need a legal professional who is prepared to take your case as far as necessary to get results.

What Do You Think This Utah Accident Claim is Worth?

A personal injury lawyer won’t make promises or guarantees about the amount of financial compensation you can expect to receive due to the many variables that could affect your case outcome. However, an experienced lawyer should be able to explain the types of damages that may apply to your case and provide you with a general estimate as to the worth of your Utah accident claim.

Do You See Any Weaknesses or Difficulties in the Injury Case?

Virtually every injury case, no matter how strong, comes with unique issues and potential shortcomings. An experienced personal injury lawyer should be willing and able to point out the areas of concern, and they should also have viable solutions. Be wary of any attorney who tells you that your case will be smooth-sailing, as you need a lawyer who will be upfront about the challenges they’ll need to overcome.

How Much Does Your Utah Law Firm Charge for Legal Services?

Most personal injury law firms in Utah operate on a contingency fee basis, which means clients don’t pay upfront legal fees. With this fee arrangement, your attorney will get paid when you do, taking a fixed percentage of the amount you receive as compensation for their services. You may be responsible for case-related costs as well. Make sure you discuss the expenses you can expect to avoid surprises later on.

Schedule a Free Consultation with William R. Rawlings & Associates

The highly skilled legal team at William R. Rawlings & Associates has decades of experience and a long track record of successful case outcomes. We know the ins and outs of personal injury law and the accident claim process in Utah – plus, as former adjusters and lawyers for insurance companies, we know the shady tactics they use to take advantage of accident victims.

We’d be happy to answer all of the questions above as well as any other questions you may have, and we’d love to put our skill, knowledge and experience to work for you. If you were injured in an accident and want to discuss your legal rights with an accomplished personal injury lawyer in Utah, contact our office and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.

You have your driver’s license, so you learned the rules of the road in Utah – but no one taught you anything about how to get compensation for losses resulting from a trucking collision. Is hiring a semi-truck accident lawyer necessary?

Actually, no. Legal representation isn’t required to file an accident claim in Utah.

That said, you can’t expect insurance adjusters to offer good advice or advocate for your rights. Their goal is to save their employer money, which is contrary to your goal. The reality is, you may need to have an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer in your corner to obtain the maximum in financial compensation.

semi-truck accident lawyer Utah

Statute of Limitations for Utah Accident Claims

Some victims of trucking collisions receive fair settlement offers from insurance companies, but most face an uphill battle in terms of compensation. All too often, filing a semi-truck accident lawsuit is the only way to get an acceptable payout.

If you’re compelled to go that route, you won’t have all the time in the world to bring an accident claim. In Utah, the statute of limitations for truck accident lawsuits is four years – and the clock started ticking the date of your trucking collision. With very few exceptions, injured victims lose the right to make a claim for compensation after the four-year period expires.

Be aware, though, that you have an even shorter amount of time to pursue compensation for property damage – in Utah, this type of claim has a three-year deadline. And in the event of wrongful death, a victim’s surviving heirs have just two years from the date of death to take legal action.

Determining Liability in a Semi-Truck Accident

Depending upon the circumstances surrounding your trucking collision, you may need a semi-truck accident lawyer to help you figure out who can be held legally responsible for your injuries and losses.

That’s obviously the semi-truck driver, isn’t it? Perhaps – if the collision involved distracted driving, speeding or any other reckless actions. But if the driver wasn’t negligent and didn’t violate any Utah traffic laws or trucking regulations, you may need to make a claim against another party.

Who might be to blame for your trucking collision? A number of parties could be named in your accident claim. The trucking company, a parts manufacturer, a maintenance contractor, a cargo loader – those a just a few of the entities that can be held liable in Utah. A truck accident lawyer will have the expertise to work out how and why the collision occurred, identifying the at-fault party or parties and holding them accountable.

Why You Need a Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer

Aside from getting expert assistance determining liability, are there any other reasons to consider hiring a semi-truck accident lawyer? Sure – and the biggest reason is to level the playing field.

Insurance companies have catchy slogans designed to make you think they care about you, but their focus is on profit. Instead of protecting your rights, insurance adjusters aim to protect the bottom line of the insurance company. An experienced truck accident lawyer can advocate for your best interests, ensuring that you don’t settle for less money than you deserve.

In addition, to get fairly compensated, you’ll need to secure ample evidence. This includes proof of negligence on behalf of the at-fault party or parties, proof that the trucking collision caused your injuries and proof of the financial losses resulting from the accident. Getting all of the documentation you need can be a challenge on your own – and to obtain some forms of evidence, such as data from onboard electronic logs and in-cab cameras, you may need help from a semi-truck accident lawyer.

Contact Us to Schedule a Free Case Review

You have a narrow window of time to file a truck accident lawsuit, so it’s in your best interests to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Investigating the cause of your trucking collision, getting the necessary evidence to prove your claim and securing the compensation you deserve could take quite some time – and for the best case outcome, your lawyer will need to get to work right away.

For expert legal representation in Utah, accident victims trust the professional team at William R. Rawlings & Associates. Our highly skilled lawyers have decades of experience taking on truck accident claims, and as former insurance adjusters and insurance company attorneys, we know what it takes to negotiate a fair settlement. And if that isn’t in the cards, we’re willing to battle it out in court.

After a serious trucking collision, your attention should be on recovering from your injuries – not on recovering financial compensation. Let the legal team at William R. Rawlings & Associates focus on the latter, and we’ll do whatever we can to get you the maximum possible payout. To learn why our Utah law firm is the right one to handle your accident claim, or to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a friendly and knowledgeable semi-truck accident lawyer, contact our Draper, Utah, office today.

How do you know if someone is legally responsible for the losses you sustained in a car accident? A lawyer can assess your claim to determine if you can pursue compensation – or, in other words, if negligence can be proven.

Negligence is the number one component in any personal injury claim. To recover damages after a car crash, you must be able to prove that another party’s actions are to blame for your injuries. If you fail to prove that negligence exists, your claim for compensation will be denied. Here, the experienced Salt Lake City car accident injury lawyers at William R. Rawlings & Associates explain what you need to know about legal liability.

car accident injury lawyer Salt Lake City

The Burden of Proof

If you bring a claim for compensation, you’re the plaintiff – and that means you have the burden of proof. It’s up to you (and your car accident lawyer, if you hire one) to prove that your version of events is accurate, demonstrating the elements of your case by a preponderance of the evidence. Or, to put it another way, you must show that it’s more likely than not that the other party’s actions are directly responsible for your injuries.

The Law of Negligence

To meet the burden of proof in a personal injury claim, you must show evidence that establishes the legal concept of negligence. That means proving your case involves each of the following elements:

Duty of Care

A person can be held accountable for their actions if they had an obligation to exercise reasonable care in regards to safety. When someone gets behind the wheel of a car, they have a duty to be careful. Proving this duty in a car accident case comes down to demonstrating that a reasonable person would have foreseen a risk of injury to others, given the turn of events.

Breach of Duty

Once you have established that the other party had a duty to act with reasonable care, you need to prove that they failed to do so. To prove a breach of duty involves showing that their conduct falls short of what a reasonable person would have done in the same situation. According to car accident lawyers, the standard can vary depending upon the circumstances of a personal injury case.

Causation

Breaching the duty of care isn’t sufficient to establish negligence in a car accident case. You must also link the breach to your injuries, proving that the other party caused both the car crash and your resulting injuries. In some cases, there is clear causation – but car accident lawyers caution that establishing causation can be difficult if you had any preexisting conditions.

Damages

Finally, the law of negligence requires that you have actual losses, or monetary expenses, to pursue compensation. The notion that someone could have been injured doesn’t create legal liability. So, if you were rear-ended, but your car wasn’t damaged and you weren’t harmed, you aren’t entitled to damages.

Evidence of Fault

In order to prove that another party was negligent, you need to provide clear evidence that shows how and why the crash occurred. The forms of proof you can use to demonstrate negligence include:

These are just some of the many types of evidence that an experienced car accident lawyer can use in building your case. And since some evidence can be difficult to obtain, you’d be wise to have a legal professional on your side.

Evidence of Damages

When it comes to compensation in most personal injury claims, the primary considerations are medical expenses, missed income and the pain and suffering the victim experiences. To prove damages, you can use the following evidence:

Depending upon the circumstances surrounding your car crash, you may be entitled to other forms of compensation. But while you may be able to bring a claim for loss of enjoyment, loss of consortium or emotional distress, doing so without the help of a car accident lawyer won’t be easy.

Get Help from an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

Proving the merits of your personal injury claim to the at-fault party’s insurance company or in a court of law requires substantial evidence – and having an experienced car accident lawyer in your corner can have a major impact on the outcome of your case. Before you enter into negotiations with an insurance adjuster, contact William R. Rawlings & Associates.

Our car accident attorneys have decades of experience negotiating favorable settlements for injured victims, and we’re always prepared to take a case to court if the insurance company refuses to provide a fair amount of compensation. If you were hurt in a car crash in Utah, California or Idaho and want help from a highly skilled and experienced car accident lawyer, contact William R. Rawlings & Associates today.

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