What to Do After a Car Accident | Howard Lewis & Petersen

What to Do After a Car Accident

Imagine you’re driving home on State Street in Provo, Utah County, when suddenly, a car cuts you off, causing a fender-bender. Your heart races, your mind scrambles, and you’re left wondering, What do I do now? Car accidents, even minor ones, can be overwhelming, leaving you stressed and confused about the next steps. At Howard Lewis & Petersen, we understand the chaos that follows a crash, especially on busy roads like I-15 or University Avenue. That’s why we’ve created this guide to provide clear, actionable steps to ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and navigate insurance claims with confidence. As experienced personal injury attorneys serving Utah County, we’re here to help you every step of the way, leveraging our deep knowledge of local laws and roads to secure the best outcome for your case.

Ensure Safety First

After a car accident in Utah County, your first step is to stay safe and protect those around you. If possible, move your vehicle to a secure location, such as the shoulder of busy roads like University Avenue or I-15, to avoid further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and carefully check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt or if the accident caused significant damage, call 911 immediately. Utah law requires reporting accidents involving injuries or substantial property damage, and local emergency services, like Provo or Orem police, typically respond quickly to ensure the scene is secure. Prioritizing safety sets the foundation for handling the situation effectively.

Report the Accident

After ensuring safety, promptly report the accident as required by Utah law. In Utah, you must report a car accident to the authorities if it results in injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $2,500. Contact local police, such as the Utah County Sheriff’s Office or city police in Provo, Orem, or Lehi, to file an official report. While waiting for officers, thoroughly document the scene. Take clear photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions—such as icy patches on Lehi’s Main Street during winter—to support your case. Exchange essential information with the other driver, including their full name, contact details, insurance information, and license plate number. For accurate reporting guidelines, visit the Utah DMV website. Proper documentation and reporting are critical for insurance claims and potential legal action in Utah County.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after a car accident in Utah County, seeking medical attention is crucial. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen without treatment. Visit a healthcare provider promptly, such as Intermountain Medical Center in Provo or Utah Valley Hospital in Orem, to get a thorough evaluation. Medical records from these visits are vital for documenting injuries and supporting personal injury claims, as they provide evidence of the accident’s impact on your health. Prioritizing medical care not only protects your well-being but also strengthens your case for compensation.

Notify Your Insurance Company

After a car accident in Utah County, notify your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. However, proceed with caution—avoid giving recorded statements or detailed accounts without consulting a lawyer, as these can be used against you. Utah operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own insurance typically covers medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who caused the accident. However, this system can complicate claims, especially for severe injuries or disputes over fault. Common mistakes, like admitting fault at the scene or accepting a quick settlement, can jeopardize your claim and reduce compensation. To navigate these complexities, contact Howard Lewis & Petersen for a free consultation. Our experienced Utah County car accident lawyers can help protect your rights and maximize your claim.

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Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be daunting, especially when fault is disputed or injuries are severe. A skilled car accident attorney in Utah County can guide you through complex insurance claims and legal processes, ensuring your rights are protected. At Howard Lewis & Petersen, we have extensive experience handling cases in Provo, Orem, and other Utah County courts, leveraging our deep knowledge of local laws to build strong cases. Our team can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages, maximizing your recovery. Don’t let insurance companies undervalue your claim—visit our contact page for a free consultation with our dedicated Utah County personal injury lawyers today.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

After a car accident in Utah County, certain missteps can jeopardize your insurance claim or potential lawsuit. Avoiding these common mistakes can strengthen your case and protect your right to fair compensation. Here are key pitfalls to steer clear of, along with actionable advice:

• Not Documenting the Scene: Failing to take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, or skid marks can weaken your claim. Action: Use your phone to capture clear images of the accident scene, including all vehicles, traffic signs, and conditions like icy roads in Lehi.

• Delaying Medical Care: Skipping a doctor’s visit because you feel fine can harm your health and claim, as injuries like whiplash may appear later. Action: Seek medical attention at facilities like Utah Valley Hospital in Provo within 24-48 hours, even for minor symptoms.

• Posting About the Accident on Social Media: Sharing details or photos online can be used by insurance companies to dispute your claim. Action: Refrain from posting about the accident or your injuries until your case is resolved.

• Admitting Fault at the Scene: Saying “I’m sorry” or accepting blame can be used against you. Action: Stick to exchanging necessary information (name, insurance, license plate) without discussing fault.

• Accepting a Quick Settlement: Insurance companies may offer low settlements before you know the full extent of your injuries. Action: Consult a Utah County car accident lawyer before accepting any offer.

By avoiding these errors, you can protect your claim and improve your chances of securing fair compensation. For personalized guidance, contact Howard Lewis & Petersen for a free consultation!