When you're involved in a car accident, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Not only do you have to deal with potential injuries, but also with the damage to your vehicle. Handling property damage claims can be complex, especially if you’re unsure about your rights and responsibilities. Here’s an in-depth look at some common issues that arise with property damage claims in Utah, and how working with a Utah accident and injury attorney can make a difference.
Utah follows a fault-based system for car accidents, which means that the driver responsible for causing the accident is generally responsible for covering damages. However, determining fault is not always straightforward, as insurance companies will conduct their investigations and may dispute fault if the evidence is unclear. In Utah, at-fault insurance companies have 30 days to conduct an investigation before they are required to do anything. But, if they go over that time frame, there are no teeth in the rule. This can complicate the process of obtaining compensation, especially if both parties believe they were not at fault. In these cases, working with a skilled Utah accident and injury attorney can help protect your rights by providing expert guidance and representation.
After an accident, your first contact will likely be with an insurance adjuster. They are often difficult to communicate with and take a long time to return phone calls. It’s essential to remember that insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their goal is often to minimize the amount the company pays out, which can lead to lowball offers that don’t fully cover the cost of repairs or replacement of your vehicle. Additionally, insurance companies may try to delay your claim or dispute the extent of your damages.
An experienced Utah accident and injury attorney can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement and that your rights are protected. They understand how to navigate discussions with adjusters and can help gather evidence to support the true value of your property damage claim.
One of the biggest challenges in a property damage claim is determining the fair market value of your car. If your car is deemed a total loss, the insurance company will offer a payout based on what they believe your car was worth at the time of the accident. This amount is often based on databases or other valuation tools, which may not consider the unique aspects of your vehicle, like recent upgrades or repairs.
Your Utah accident and injury attorney can help gather documentation such as maintenance records, receipts for upgrades, and evidence of your car’s condition before the accident to ensure a fair valuation. The key is to find out what the market rate is in your area. So, We often advise clients to go to ksl.com or local dealerships and find out what a similar car is going for. Using this method gives you a solid understanding of the pricing ball park your care should be in.
Beyond the repair or replacement costs, car accidents often involve additional out-of-pocket expenses like towing fees, rental cars, and storage fees for your damaged vehicle. Insurance companies may not cover all these costs unless you push for them. Knowing which expenses are eligible for reimbursement can be challenging, especially if the insurance company resists.
DO NOT let your car sit in storage while you fight with the insurance company about who is at fault. You have a duty to mitigate your damages and that means the longer you let the car sit in storage, the more likely it is you will end up paying the storage fees. Get the car out ASAP.
Working with a Utah accident and injury attorney helps to ensure that you’re compensated not just for repairs but also for these additional costs. They can help you document and present these expenses as part of your claim.
Property damage claims can take much longer than expected to resolve, particularly if there are disputes regarding fault, valuation, or covered costs. Delays can leave you without a vehicle for an extended period, impacting your ability to work or meet other obligations. An experienced Utah accident and injury attorney can help speed up the process by advocating on your behalf and pushing for timely responses from the insurance company.
Navigating the challenges of a property damage claim in Utah after a car accident can be overwhelming. By working with a knowledgeable Utah accident and injury attorney, you can have peace of mind knowing that your rights are protected and that you have an advocate fighting for fair compensation. From understanding Utah’s fault-based system to negotiating with insurance adjusters, having the right legal support can make a significant difference in the outcome of your property damage claim. Call the Utah car accident and injury lawyers at True North Injury Law today to set up your free consultation at 801-849-3664.
