If you have suffered injuries in a Salt Lake City car accident, you should know your rights. This will help you prepare for the steps to take if somebody else’s negligence is to blame for the accident. A Moxie Law Group personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process. First, they will assess your case and determine its viability. Once the attorney takes on your case, they start collecting evidence to strengthen it. They will make sure your rights are protected throughout the process. As an accident victim, below are some rights you should protect and fight for:
Right to Compensation
Accident victims in Salt Lake City have the right to financial compensation for the damages they have suffered because of the accident. Typically, compensation covers the following damages:
- Medical expenses. These damages include treatment costs and ongoing medical expenses like rehabilitation, medical devices, medication, and necessary future medical care.
- Lost wages. You can seek compensation for the wages you lost while you recover from your accident injuries. If your injuries impact your ability to earn a living in the future, you may claim lost earning capacity.
- Damages for pain and suffering. These damages compensate you for your physical and emotional distress as a result of the accident. This distress includes ongoing discomfort, loss of life enjoyment, and mental anguish.
- More damages. Depending on the specifics of the case, other damages like loss of consortium, property damage, and punitive damages can be recovered.
Your personal injury claim compensates you for out-of-pocket expenses you incurred because of your accident-related injury. Also, it extends to areas of your life that the accident has affected.
Rights to a Just Investigation
Accident victims have the right to an unbiased accident investigation. This is important when it comes to establishing the facts and identifying the liable parties. A fair investigation has major elements such as access to evidence, expert consultation, and impartiality. With a fair investigation, every responsible party in the case is held accountable, and you have access to strong evidence to support your claim.
Right to File an Insurance Claim or a Civil Lawsuit
When seeking redress, you can file either an insurance claim or a civil lawsuit:
- Insurance claim. Usually, initial compensation claims are handled through insurers. You can file a claim with your insurance provider of the provider of the at-fault party. Typically, the parties involved negotiate a settlement that covers the damages that resulted from the accident.
- Civil lawsuit. You can take civil action if insurance coverage is not enough to cover your damages or if the other party disputes your claim. This allows you to pursue additional compensation. Such a process involves presenting your case before a judge or jury who will then determine liability and award compensation.
Right to a Reasonable Settlement
A fair settlement is one that reflects the full extent of your damages. Some principles govern this process. For instance, settlement talks must be balanced, making sure you get compensation that reflects your injuries and damages. Negotiations must not involve coercive tactics and both parties must do it in good faith. In addition, a fair settlement can be reached by accurately assessing all your damages, including your current and future damages. You may need the opinions of medical experts, financial advisers, and other professionals.
Right to an Attorney
The right to an attorney makes sure a legal expert effectively represents your interests throughout the process. A personal injury lawyer can navigate the complexities of your claim, from settlement negotiations to court representation. They will work to secure the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
