A car crash can happen in an instant but change your life for months, years, or forever. In Idaho, if someone else causes a crash, their insurance should cover your medical bills and other losses. This is a challenging process, however, so you want the representation and assistance of a Boise car accident attorney from Andrew Injury Law immediately.
How Can a Boise Car Accident Attorney from Andrew Injury Law Help Me?
After a Boise car accident, Andrew Injury Law can provide you with assistance in several ways:
Experience and Knowledge: Matt Andrew has an extensive background in personal injury law, having represented clients in hundreds of car crash cases with serious injuries since 2013. This experience ensures that your case is in capable hands.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Andrew Injury Law can handle the negotiations, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve without the added stress.
Court Representation: Should your case need to go to court, having Matt Andrew, who has successfully tried numerous cases to verdict, can be a significant advantage.
How Does Fault Work in a Car Accident?
In Idaho, the “at-fault” system is used when determining who is financially responsible for a car accident. This means the person found to be at fault for causing the accident is liable for the damages. However, if both parties are found to be at fault, the comparative negligence rule applies, which could reduce the compensation based on the percentage of fault.
Possible Damages After a Car Accident in Boise, ID
After a car accident, you might be entitled to different damages, including:
Medical expenses: Covering your hospital bills, medications, therapies, etc.
Lost wages: Compensation for your income lost due to the accident.
Pain and suffering: For the emotional and physical distress caused by the accident.
Property damage: Repairs or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property.
How to Prove Negligence After a Car Collision?
To successfully claim compensation, you need to prove the other party’s negligence. This often involves:
Demonstrating that the other driver had a duty to exercise reasonable care.
Showing that this duty was breached.
Establishing that this breach directly resulted in the accident and your injuries.
Providing evidence of the damages incurred.
Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Boise, ID
While there can be endless reasons for car accidents, some common causes in Boise include:
Distracted driving: Texting, phone calls, or any other distractions while driving.
Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Speeding: Going over the set speed limits or driving too fast for conditions.
Weather conditions: Slippery or wet roads due to rain, snow, or ice.
Reckless driving: Overtaking dangerously, not yielding, or running red lights.
Remember, in any car accident scenario, it is best to have a qualified attorney like Matthew Andrew to guide and represent you to ensure the best possible outcome.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can result in a range of injuries, some of the most common being:
Whiplash: Neck injury due to sudden movement of the head.
Broken Bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or other parts of the body.
Lacerations and Bruises: Cuts or bruises from broken glass or impact.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in paralysis or other serious conditions.
Is Idaho a No-Fault State?
No, Idaho is not a no-fault state. It operates under the “at-fault” system, which means the person found to be responsible for causing the car accident is liable for the damages.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Idaho?
After a car accident in Idaho, you should do the following things to stay safe and strengthen your potential case:
Stay at the Scene: Leave only when it’s appropriate to do so.
Check on All Drivers and Passengers: Ensure everyone’s safety and call for medical attention if needed.
Call the Police: Especially if there’s significant property damage, injury, or death.
Exchange Information: Get names, numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information.
Document the Scene: Take pictures and get statements from witnesses if possible.
Inform Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurer.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you think you’re fine, some injuries can appear days after the accident.
Consult with an Attorney: Especially if there are injuries or significant damages, seek advice from an attorney like Matthew Andrew.
Car Accidents and Insurance
When a car accident occurs, insurance plays a crucial role in compensating the injured parties. The at-fault party’s insurance typically covers the damages. However, disputes can arise about fault, the extent of injuries, or the amount of compensation, making it essential to have proper legal representation and understanding of your policy.
What is the Minimum Amount of Car Insurance in Idaho?
In Idaho, drivers are required to have the following minimum insurance coverages:
Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
Property Damage Liability: $15,000 per accident.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: While not mandatory, it’s often recommended for added protection.
Remember, these are minimum amounts. Depending on your assets and personal circumstances, you might choose higher coverage limits to protect yourself further.
How Much Is the Average Settlement for a Car Crash?
The average settlement for a car crash varies widely based on multiple factors, such as the severity of the injuries, property damage, the extent of liability, medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
While minor accidents might result in settlements of a few thousand dollars, severe accidents with significant injuries and damages can lead to settlements in the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
Always consult with an attorney, like Matthew Andrew, to get a precise estimate tailored to your specific situation.
What Happens If the Other Driver Leaves After the Accident?
Leaving the scene of an accident, especially when there are injuries involved, is illegal in many states, including Idaho. It’s commonly referred to as a hit-and-run.
If the other driver leaves:
Stay Calm and Safe: Ensure you are in a safe location.
Gather Information: Try to remember or note down any details about the other car (make, model, license plate) and driver.
Call the Police: Report the hit and run. This can help in the investigation and is often required for insurance purposes.
Seek Witnesses: If there are any witnesses, gather their contact information and statements.
Contact Your Insurance: Inform them of the incident. They can guide you on the next steps, especially if you have uninsured motorist coverage.
Consult with an Attorney: Andrew Injury Law can advise on the best course of action and assist in pursuing any available legal remedies.
What If My Car Has No Insurance?
If you are caught driving without insurance in Idaho, you may face the following penalties and consequences:
Fines: You may be fined up to $75 for the first offense and up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses within five years.
License suspension: Your driver’s license may be suspended for six months for the first offense and one year for subsequent offenses within five years. You will also have to pay a reinstatement fee of $85 to restore your driving privileges.
SR-22 requirement: You may be required to file an SR-22 form with the Idaho Department of Transportation, which is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you have the minimum insurance coverage. You will have to maintain the SR-22 for three years from the date of conviction or license reinstatement.
Increased insurance rates: Your insurance premiums may increase significantly due to your violation and risk level. You may also have difficulty finding an affordable insurance policy or a willing insurer.
Civil liability: If you are involved in an accident while driving without insurance, you may be held personally liable for the damages and injuries that you cause to the other parties. You may also be sued by the other parties or their insurance companies for compensation. You may have to pay out of your own pocket or face wage garnishment, property seizure, or other legal actions.
Driving without insurance in Idaho is not worth the risk and the cost. It is better to comply with the law and protect yourself and others from financial hardship and legal trouble. If you need more information or assistance with your insurance situation, consult with Andrew Injury Law. We can advise you on your legal rights and options.
Medical Expenses After a Car Crash
After a car crash, medical expenses can rapidly accumulate. These can include:
Immediate Medical Attention: Emergency room visits, surgeries, and medication.
Ongoing Care: Follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
Specialized Treatment: Chiropractic care, acupuncture, and other specialized therapies.
Medical Equipment: Crutches, braces, or wheelchairs.
Future Medical Needs: Anticipated surgeries or long-term therapies due to the accident.
Keep all of your medical records and bills. They will help you with potential compensation claims.
Car Accident Vehicle Repairs
Following an accident, your vehicle may require repairs or might be declared a total loss. Costs can include:
Bodywork: Repairing dents, scratches, or significant body damage.
Mechanical Repairs: Addressing issues with the engine, transmission, or other internal systems.
Glass Repairs: Replacing shattered windows or windshields.
Paint Jobs: Matching the vehicle’s original color after body repairs.
Towing and Storage: Fees associated with moving and storing the damaged vehicle.
Vehicle Replacement: In cases where the vehicle is beyond repair.
Always consult with a trusted repair shop and your insurance company to ensure you receive a fair estimate and compensation.
Contact Andrew Injury Law
Have you been involved in a car accident in Idaho? Don’t face the aftermath alone. Trust Matthew Andrew at Andrew Injury Law to guide you through the complexities of insurance claims, vehicle repairs, and medical bills. We will fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact Andrew Injury Law today.
Matt Andrew was great!!! I called with a question regarding a situation and he answered all my questions. I appreciate him taking the time out of his day to talk with me!!! I give him 5 stars! Thank u Matt.