Idaho Auto / Car Accidents - Motorvehicle Accident
Being involved in a motor vehicle crash can be devastating. While the accident itself and the injuries caused by the accident are more than enough for a victim to handle, dealing with the insurance companies, and the legal rights and responsibilities arising out of an accident, can make it even worse.It is advisable for victims of motor vehicle accidents to hire skilled personal injury lawyers as soon as practicable. There will often be the need to take quick action following an accident to preserve and protect the victim’s rights. Evidence at an accident scene, such as skid marks, can fade away shortly after the accident. Likewise, the extent of injuries sustained by the victim can fade over time. There may be a need to take photographs that can preserve crucial evidence, and a skilled trial lawyer can recognize such needs and respond quickly. There may also be a need to interview witnesses while their recollections are fresh. Often, there will be a need to keep track of significant events, such as missed days from work.
The insurance company for the driver who caused the accident is guaranteed to be very experienced in dealing with claims arising out of motor vehicle accidents. They will be gearing up for the prospect of a claim being made by the victim, from the moment they are notified about the accident. These insurance companies will often ask the injured party to give a tape-recorded statement. You should refuse any such request. That statement is only for the benefit of the insurance company, not for your benefit.
Similarly, many insurance companies will ask the injured victim to provide them with a medical release. That allows the insurance company to obtain any of your medical records, regardless of whether they are related to the accident or not. More often than not, the insurance companies of the driver that caused the accident will NOT pay for your medical expenses. They are under no legal obligation to do so until there is a resolution of the entire claim. On the other hand, the insurance on the vehicle you were in may have medical payment coverage which insures the immediate payment of your medical expenses up to their limits of coverage, regardless of who is at fault in the accident.
A question that usually arises soon after an accident occurs regards getting your vehicle fixed, or being paid for the damage done to your vehicle in the accident. Insurance companies typically address these property damage claims soon after the accident. Under Idaho law, the insurance company is required to pay the lesser of: the reasonable amounts to repair the vehicle for the damage sustained in the accident, or, if the vehicle has been totaled in the accident, the fair market value of the vehicle just prior to the accident. Idaho law does not require the insurance company to pay the balance of any loan that you may have on the vehicle.
There are potentially numerous things that need to be done to protect your legal rights following a motor vehicle accident. At Hepworth, Lezamiz & Janis, we have handled thousands of cases arising out of motor vehicle accidents for more than 50 years. Put experience on your side.
If you have been injured in an automobile collision, consult with an attorney immediately. There are important time limitations on your claim.
Personal injury lawyers & attorneys serving all cities & counties in Idaho, including:
Sun Valley, Twin Falls, Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Boise, McCall, Lewiston
& Couer d’Alene
