Car Accident Lawyer Provo | Howard Lewis & Petersen

Car Accident Lawyer In Provo | Howard Lewis & Petersen

Every year, countless lives are disrupted by car accidents in Provo, Utah, leaving victims to face physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. Navigating the aftermath of a collision can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and complex legal processes. That’s where expert legal help becomes essential. At Howard Lewis & Petersen, our experienced car accident lawyers in Provo are dedicated to guiding you through every step, fighting for the compensation you deserve and helping you rebuild with confidence.

Understanding Car Accidents in Provo

Statistics on Car Accidents in Provo

Car accidents are a significant concern in Provo, Utah, reflecting broader trends across Utah County. In 2023, Utah experienced 60,021 traffic crashes statewide, with Utah County—home to Provo—reporting one of the highest crash rates at over 212 crashes per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. While specific Provo-only crash numbers are not isolated in public data, the city’s busy roads, especially near Brigham Young University and commercial hubs, contribute heavily to this rate. Common causes in the region include distracted driving (e.g., texting, passenger distractions), speeding (a factor in 35% of fatal crashes statewide), and impaired driving (17% of Utah’s traffic deaths in 2023 involved alcohol-impaired drivers). Weather-related issues, such as snow, ice, and rain, also play a role, making roads slick and reducing visibility.

Common Types of Injuries from Car Accidents

Car accidents in Provo can result in a range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. Common injuries include:

Whiplash: Neck strain from sudden jolts, often in rear-end collisions.
Fractures: Broken bones, frequently from high-impact crashes or safety device pressure.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, bruises, and tears to muscles or ligaments.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Concussions or worse from head impacts, especially in unrestrained victims.
Cuts and Lacerations: From broken glass or metal. In 2023, Utah saw 26,637 injuries from crashes, and one-third of vehicle occupants killed were unrestrained, underscoring the risk of severe harm without seat belts.

Why Provo’s Roads and Traffic Patterns Require Specialized Legal Knowledge

Provo’s unique road and traffic conditions demand expert legal insight. Heavy traffic near BYU and downtown intersections increases collision risks, while weather challenges like snow and ice require drivers to adapt—failure often leads to liability disputes. Utah’s comparative fault law means if you’re found more than 50% at fault, you may recover nothing, making precise evidence collection critical. Local attorneys, like those at Howard Lewis & Peterson, understand Provo’s traffic patterns, weather impacts, and Utah’s legal framework, ensuring claims account for these factors to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.

Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer

Explanation of Complex Legal Processes

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident involves intricate legal processes that can be daunting without professional help. Insurance claims require detailed documentation, including medical records, police reports, and proof of damages, often with tight deadlines. Insurance companies may downplay injuries or offer low settlements to minimize payouts. Liability disputes complicate matters further—Utah follows a comparative fault rule, where compensation decreases if you’re partially at fault, and you recover nothing if deemed more than 50% responsible. Determining fault involves analyzing evidence like witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction, a task overwhelming for those unfamiliar with legal standards.

Benefits of Hiring a Local Provo Car Accident Lawyer

Hiring a local Provo car accident lawyer offers distinct advantages. A local attorney understands Utah’s traffic laws, insurance regulations, and court procedures, ensuring your case aligns with state-specific rules. They’re familiar with Provo’s unique road conditions—busy university corridors, winter hazards, and high-traffic zones—allowing them to build a stronger case. Local lawyers also have established relationships with area insurers, medical providers, and courts, streamlining negotiations and processes. This proximity means faster response times and personalized attention, critical for timely, effective representation.

How Howard Lewis & Peterson Brings Expertise and Local Insight

Howard Lewis & Peterson stands out with decades of combined experience in car accident law, delivering expert guidance tailored to Provo. Our team excels in investigating crashes, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurers to maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We leverage deep knowledge of Provo’s traffic patterns, weather challenges, and local legal landscape to craft compelling cases. With a client-focused approach, Howard Lewis & Peterson provides compassionate support and fierce advocacy, ensuring you’re not alone in facing the complexities of your claim.

Services Offered by Howard Lewis & Petersen

Case Evaluation and Personalized Legal Advice

At Howard Lewis & Petersen, we begin with a thorough case evaluation to understand the details of your car accident in Provo. We review police reports, medical records, and other evidence to assess the strength of your claim. Our team then provides personalized legal advice, outlining your options, potential outcomes, and the best path forward, tailored to your unique situation and goals.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies for Fair Settlements

Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, offering settlements that fall short of covering your losses. Our experienced attorneys at Howard Lewis & Peterson skillfully negotiate on your behalf, leveraging evidence and legal expertise to demand fair compensation. We fight to ensure your settlement reflects the full extent of your damages, from property repair to medical expenses.

Representation in Court for Litigation Cases

If a fair settlement isn’t possible, Howard Lewis & Peterson is prepared to represent you in court. Our seasoned litigators build a strong case, presenting evidence, witness testimony, and expert analysis to advocate for your rights. We navigate Utah’s legal system with confidence, aiming for the best possible outcome in litigation.

Handling Medical Bills, Lost Wages, and Pain and Suffering Claims

Car accidents often lead to mounting medical bills, lost income from time off work, and emotional distress. We meticulously document these losses, working with medical and financial experts to quantify your claims. Howard Lewis & Peterson pursues compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering, ensuring all aspects of your hardship are addressed.

What Sets Howard Lewis & Peterson Apart

Decades of Combined Experience in Car Accident Law

Howard Lewis & Peterson brings decades of combined experience to the table, with our attorneys honing their expertise in car accident law through years of dedicated practice. This extensive background equips us to handle complex cases, from minor fender-benders to severe collisions, with skill and precision, ensuring you receive top-tier legal support.

Track Record of Successful Settlements and Verdicts in Provo

Our firm has a proven track record of securing successful settlements and courtroom verdicts for car accident victims in Provo. We’ve consistently achieved favorable outcomes, recovering substantial compensation for clients to cover medical costs, property damage, and more, demonstrating our ability to deliver results in the local area.

Client-Focused Approach: Compassionate, Responsive, and Dedicated

At Howard Lewis & Peterson, we prioritize a client-focused approach. We offer compassionate support, understanding the trauma and stress of a car accident. Our team is responsive, keeping you informed at every step, and dedicated, tirelessly pursuing your best interests to achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.

Deep Understanding of Utah Laws and Local Court Systems

Our deep understanding of Utah laws and Provo’s local court systems sets us apart. We’re well-versed in state-specific regulations, such as comparative fault rules, and familiar with local judges, court procedures, and legal nuances in Utah County, allowing us to craft strategic, effective cases tailored to the region.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Provo

Ensure Safety First: Move to a Safe Location, Call 911

Your safety is the top priority after a car accident in Provo. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to a safe spot, such as the shoulder of the road, to avoid further collisions. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers. Call 911 immediately to report the accident, request emergency services, and ensure police respond to document the incident.

Document the Scene: Photos, Witness Contacts, Police Reports

Gather evidence to strengthen your case. Use your phone to take clear photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who saw the crash. Obtain a copy of the police report, as it provides an official record critical for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Seek Medical Attention, Even for Minor Injuries

Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Some issues, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can worsen without treatment. Visit a doctor or urgent care in Provo for a thorough evaluation. Medical records will link your injuries to the accident, supporting your claim.

Contact Howard Lewis & Petersen for a Free Consultation

Don’t navigate the legal process alone—contact Howard Lewis & Peterson for a free consultation. Our experienced car accident lawyers in Provo will review your case, explain your rights, and guide you toward fair compensation. Call us, email, or visit our website to schedule your no-obligation consultation and take the first step to recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions loop

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Utah?

In Utah, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is generally three years from the date of the accident for personal injury claims, according to Utah Code Ann. § 78B-2-307. For property damage, you also have three years. However, certain exceptions (e.g., accidents involving government vehicles) may shorten this timeline. Act quickly to preserve evidence and contact Howard Lewis & Peterson to ensure your claim is filed on time.

What If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?

If the other driver is uninsured, you may still have options. Utah requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage, which can help cover your medical bills and damages if the at-fault driver lacks insurance. Our team at Howard Lewis & Peterson can assess your policy, pursue this coverage, and explore other avenues, such as personal injury claims or your own collision coverage, to secure compensation.

How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer at Howard Lewis & Petersen Cost?

At Howard Lewis & Peterson, we typically work on a contingency fee basis for car accident cases. This means you pay no upfront fees; we only get paid if we win or settle your case, taking a percentage of the recovery. Costs vary depending on case complexity. During your free consultation, we’ll explain our fee structure clearly so you can proceed with confidence.

What Compensation Can I Expect for My Case?

Compensation depends on your case’s specifics—accident severity, injury extent, and financial losses. You may be eligible for damages covering medical expenses (past and future), lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Howard Lewis & Peterson will evaluate your situation, gather evidence, and fight to maximize your recovery, tailored to the unique impacts of your Provo car accident.