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A severe car accident can be an incredibly traumatic and devastating experience. If you were hurt in a crash, the Boise car accident lawyers at Sargent Law Firm Injury Lawyers are here to help you. Whether the crash was a relatively minor fender-bender or a disastrous collision, our Boise car accident lawyers can provide answers and direction.
If you or someone you know was hurt in a car accident, or if you have a question that has not yet been answered, call an Boise personal injury lawyer from our team today. We will assess your case, explain your options, and help you get the answers you were looking for when you contact us for a free consultation.
How Much Compensation Can You Recover in a Boise Car Accident Claim?
Many factors affect how much a Boise car accident claim or lawsuit might be worth. There is no way to know how much you can recover until after we investigate the case and document your recoverable damages. Some of the factors that affect the value of a case include:
- The type and severity of injuries
- The necessary medical care and support
- Your income and how much time you missed at work
- Whether you can return to work
- Your related expenses
- The insurance coverage available
- The case facts
Many car accident victims suffer significant injuries and require emergency medical care at a trauma center. According to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise is listed as a Level II trauma center. The facility is one of four in the state equipped to stabilize, treat, and rehabilitate serious and catastrophic injuries.
This could include injuries such as:
- Spinal cord injuries, often leading to paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Traumatic amputations
- Significant blood volume loss
- Major internal injuries
- Serious fractures and crush injuries
- Significant burns
- Scarring and disfigurement
When car accident victims in Idaho sustain catastrophic injuries, the medical bills can last a lifetime. That’s why it’s important to have Boise car accident attorneys fight for your compensation now and in the future.
If you’ve been injured or a loved one has been killed through an act of negligence, you need the highest level of legal representation.
Schedule a Free ConsultationDamages You Can Pursue in a Boise Car Accident Claim with the Help of Our Sargent Law Firm Attorneys
The economic and non-economic costs of suffering any serious injury in a car accident can seem overwhelming. When left with life-altering, permanent injuries, the costs are even higher.
Our car accident lawyers in Boise are dedicated to helping injured people recover financially. We document their accident-related expenses and losses and seek money to cover current and future costs.
Your recoverable damages could include:
- Medical bills, including medications, rehabilitation costs, medical equipment, and travel to appointments
- Ongoing medical care for long-term injuries
- Income losses from time missed at work
- Reduced earning ability if you have permanent injuries that affect your ability to return to work
- Property damages, specifically repairs to damaged vehicles
- Mental anguish
- Reduced quality of life
- Lost enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
We also represent families in wrongful death cases in Boise. In Idaho, a victim’s heirs and/or personal representatives can seek compensation through a wrongful death action if the victim did not survive their injuries.
Types Of Claims Our Boise Car Accident Lawyers Represent
Traffic accidents occur in so many ways and because of various reasons. The way the collision happens can play a significant role in the injuries suffered and the severity of the crash. Some common types of car accidents our team handles regularly include:
Rear-End Crashes
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident. This type of collision often occurs because of fender-benders in parking lots, heavy stop-and-go traffic, or at intersections. A rear-end accident can cause serious injuries.
Generally, the rear driver is at fault in a rear-end crash. However, we still need to investigate and document the case facts to recover fair compensation for our client.
Head-On Collisions
We are experienced Boise, Idaho, car accident attorneys and have seen firsthand the devastation a head-on collision can have on a victim and their family.
Head-on collisions often lead to fatalities. The injuries that could result from these most unfortunate accidents can often result in lifelong disabilities or even death for the victims.
High-Speed Collisions
When vehicles collide at high speeds, serious injuries are likely. Even a small increase in speed can greatly affect the forces involved in a crash. A high-speed collision involves a vehicle undergoing immense stress that results in the vehicle’s inability to protect its passengers from injury. High-speed collisions almost always result in structural failures in car accidents.
For the innocent survivors of high-speed car accidents, the physical, mental, and emotional recovery process can be extremely painful and astonishingly expensive. Many suffer catastrophic injuries and never fully recover.
Side-Impact Collisions
Side-impact collisions are serious yet common car accidents.
A side-impact collision occurs when the front of one vehicle hits the side of another, otherwise known as being “T-boned.” Most of these car accidents occur at intersections when the oncoming vehicle fails to yield at a red light or stop sign or when turning.
The severity of a side impact collision depends on several factors, such as the speed and mass of the oncoming vehicle and where that oncoming vehicle strikes your car.
Our Boise, Idaho, car crash attorneys are equipped to investigate all the involved factors to best help you handle the injuries and damages you suffered in a side-impact collision.
Rollover Accidents
If your family member has been injured or killed due to a vehicle rollover accident, the road conditions or the car itself could have contributed to or caused the accident.
To prove a road, design, or manufacturing defect was present, you may want to hire a knowledgeable personal injury attorney specializing in car accidents.
Sometimes, an uninvolved driver forces a vehicle off the road and causes a rollover. Our traffic accident legal team in Boise knows how to take steps to identify this driver or pursue other options for compensation when necessary.
How Our Sargent Law Firm Car Accident Attorneys in Boise Can Help You with Your Case
At Sargent Law Firm, our experienced car accident attorneys in Boise are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support from start to finish. Whether you need help gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, or navigating the legal system, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Here’s how our team can assist you in building a strong case and pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Our Boise Car Accident Lawyers Identify The Most Common Causes Of Wrecks
As car accident lawyers, our team sees many causes of traffic accidents in and around Boise. We know how to identify the proximate cause of a crash, document it, and use it to support a compelling case for compensation.
Some of the most common causes of car accidents include:
Carelessness
A common cause of traffic accidents is carelessness behind the wheel. The driver fails to keep their full attention on the task of driving, and a mistake occurs. This generally violates a traffic law, and it causes a collision. Some examples include:
- Failing to yield when turning
- Ignoring a traffic light or stop sign
- Following too closely
- Failing to maintain a lane
- Not clearing a lane before moving into it
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is defined as someone driving unsafely, with a deliberate disregard for safety. It is safe to assume that every driver has the full knowledge that reckless driving could cause an accident.
A driver could be found to be driving recklessly if they drive in a harassing or threatening manner that results in a car accident. In addition to possible civil litigation, criminal charges could stem from reckless driving, especially when it results in a car accident involving others or property damage.
These two cases could proceed simultaneously, but they are separate cases. The outcome of the criminal case has no bearing on the civil case or insurance claim.
Drunk Driving and Related Accidents
A driver who drinks or uses drugs before getting behind the wheel puts everyone on the road in danger. Alcohol and drug use significantly impairs one’s ability to make good decisions, react quickly, and drive responsibly. According to the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), 40 percent of all Idaho traffic fatalities occurred in an impaired driving crash.
Drunk or drugged drivers could face criminal charges in addition to the civil case against them handled by our attorneys.
All Forms of Aggressive Driving
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states aggressive driving involves unlawful driving actions such as:
- Improper or excessive lane changing
- Speeding
- Improper passing
- Failing to signal intent
Aggressive driving greatly increases the chance of a car accident occurring. Although it is illegal, it is still common. Sargent Law Firm Injury Lawyers can help you get justice.
Texting While Driving
Even though texting while driving is inherently dangerous, it has become a major distraction for drivers. Texting and other handheld phone use result in numerous car accidents every year.
While hands-free laws and awareness campaigns have worked to curb some texting while driving, it still occurs far too often. This behavior leads to violating traffic laws and is a major contributor to many crashes.
Falling Asleep While Driving
Falling asleep while driving is one of the major causes of car accidents in the United States. Nearly four percent of all deadly crashes involve tired drivers, and numerous more are injured because another driver fell asleep.
Every car accident involving a fatigued driver is completely preventable—don’t drive when you’re overly tired. Although it may be inconvenient, not driving when you’re tired is essential to protecting not only yourself but all other motorists. It is better to be inconvenienced than to be in a car accident.
Our Attorneys Will Pursue All Legal Options So You Get Justice in a Boise Car Accident Claim
When our attorneys work with a client hurt in a Boise car accident, we handle all aspects of their case. From the first day, we notify the insurance carrier and other parties that we are their contact point from now on. Our client never has to worry about another call.
We assess their legal options, determining the likely liable parties and launching an investigation to build a compelling case that documents what happened. With strong evidence to show negligence and liability, we can demand fair compensation. There are generally three ways we can win a case:
- A settlement with the insurance carrier
- A judgment in arbitration or another alternative dispute resolution measure
- A verdict and award in civil court
Under Idaho Code § 5-219, the statute of limitations is generally two years after the accident date. Missing this or other applicable deadlines could bar you from a financial recovery or at least make getting fair compensation very difficult.
We encourage you to reach out to our car accident legal team in Boise as soon as your injuries allow. We can ensure you meet the deadlines and protect your right to pursue fair compensation.
We Make Sure You Pursue Your Right to Compensation on Time In A Boise Car Accident Claim
If you don’t file a car accident claim within the statute of limitations, you will likely lose your right to pursue legal action and seek compensation for your injuries and damages. The statute of limitations is a legal deadline that sets a time limit for filing a lawsuit after an incident, such as a car accident, occurs.
Here are the consequences of failing to file a car accident claim within the statute of limitations:
- Barred from filing a lawsuit: Once the statute of limitations expires, you will be barred from filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party. Even if you have a valid claim and deserve compensation, you will not be able to pursue legal action to recover damages.
- Loss of leverage in negotiations: If the insurer knows that you have missed the deadline to file a lawsuit, they may be less willing to offer a fair settlement, as they know you have no legal recourse if you refuse their offer.
- Inability to recover compensation: By missing the statute of limitations, you will likely forfeit your right to recover any compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the car accident.
- Exceptions are rare: While there are some rare exceptions that may allow you to file a claim after the statute of limitations has expired, such as the discovery rule or a defendant’s absence from the state, these exceptions are limited and may not apply.
Your Boise car accident attorney at Sargent Law Firm can help you understand the specific statute of limitations that applies to your case, ensure that your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe, and guide you through the legal process of pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Your Boise Car Accident Lawyer Will Handle Communications With Insurance
After a car accident, you can expect the at-fault party’s insurance company to quickly reach out to you. They may act like they are concerned about your well-being, but the truth is, they are most likely more concerned with holding onto their profits. That’s why you should let your Boise car accident lawyer handle communications with insurance companies after an accident.
Here are some other reasons you may want to let your car accident lawyer in Boise do the talking when it comes to the insurance companies:
- Protecting your interests: Insurance companies, even your own, are businesses that aim to minimize payouts. They may try to get you to make statements that could be used to undermine your claim. Your lawyer can communicate on your behalf to protect your interests.
- Knowledge of the law: Car accident lawyers are well-versed in Idaho’s insurance and personal injury laws. They can ensure that all communications with insurers are within the bounds of the law and that your rights are protected.
- Negotiation skills: Lawyers are skilled negotiators who can advocate for a fair settlement on your behalf. They understand the tactics insurers may use to lowball settlements and can counter them effectively.
- Handling paperwork: Communicating with insurers involves a lot of paperwork, including demand letters, settlement agreements, and release forms. Your lawyer can handle this paperwork to ensure it’s properly prepared and filed.
- Allowing you to focus on recovery: Dealing with insurers can be stressful, especially when you’re trying to recover from accident injuries. By letting your lawyer handle these communications, you can focus on your health and well-being.
- Escalating to litigation if needed: If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can escalate the matter and file a lawsuit on your behalf. Having your lawyer handle communications from the start can make this process smoother.
Communicating with the defendant’s insurance company is one of the most important benefits of having legal representation after a car accident. They may try to trick you into making statements that will reduce or eliminate your compensation. Contact us online or call us to learn more about how the car accident team at Sargent Law can protect your rights.
If you’ve been injured or a loved one has been killed through an act of negligence, you need the highest level of legal representation.
Call Us NowOur Idaho Attorneys Have A Long Track Record Of Success In Car Accident Cases
At Sargent Law Firm Injury Lawyers, our car collisions attorneys in Boise put our hearts into our work because we know that our work makes a difference in people’s lives. We see clients able to focus on their health and recovery while we handle their legal cases and, later, they are relieved of their worry about paying for their ongoing care costs.
You can watch real-life testimonials on our website, read more than 400 five-star reviews from former clients, and feel confident that we can handle cases—and win—based on our track record, which includes over $40 million recovered in settlements, judgments, and verdicts for our clients.
Our bilingual team notifies the insurance company as soon as you hire us to represent you. You will not have to speak to the adjuster or deal with them anymore. We build the case, negotiate for a fair settlement, and litigate cases as necessary.
You Don’t Have To Pay A Retainer To Hire A Boise Car Accident Lawyer
We take personal injury cases like yours on a contingency-fee basis. This means you only pay us once we have won or settled your case. There are no upfront expenses, and you will never owe us anything out of your own pocket. Our Sargent Law car crash attorney’s fees in Boise come from the money we recover from an insurance settlement or verdict.
Talk To A Boise Car Accident Lawyer Who Will Fight For You!
Sargent Law Firm Injury Lawyers provides free initial consultations for Boise car accident victims. We will discuss your options and next steps today for free. We get started on these cases with no upfront costs for victims, too.
We are more than happy to provide you with references from our many satisfied clients. As you will see, we have a proven track record of getting results for our clients. Sargent Law Firm Injury Lawyers is here to work for you, and we will help you after your car accident.
To get started, contact us today!
Boise Car Accident Lawyers and Claims: Frequently Asked Questions
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Boise, Idaho, you may have questions about the claims process and how local laws apply to your case. Our experienced Boise car accident lawyers are here to provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. Understanding these key aspects can help you make informed decisions as you navigate your car accident claim in Idaho.
Does Idaho Have Damage Caps In Car Accident Claims?
Although there is no cap on economic damages in Idaho, the state does have damage caps that apply to certain types of car accident claims:
- Non-economic damages: Idaho has a $250,000 cap on non-economic damages in personal injury cases, including car accidents. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages: Idaho also caps punitive damages, which are awarded to punish the defendant for particularly egregious behavior. The cap is set at the greater of $250,000 or three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded.
If your Boise car accident claim accident involves a government entity, there may be different caps and procedural requirements that apply. Your personal injury lawyer will explain any damage caps as they apply to your case.
Why Is It Important to Seek Medical Care After a Car Accident in Boise?
Seeking immediate medical care after a car accident in Boise is crucial, even if you feel fine initially. Many injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away but can become serious if left untreated.
A thorough medical examination can detect these hidden injuries early, ensuring you receive proper treatment and prevent potential complications. Moreover, seeing a doctor promptly establishes a clear link between the accident and your injuries, which is vital if you need to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit later.
Getting medical documentation of your injuries is essential for building a strong case if you decide to pursue compensation. When you visit a doctor after an accident, they create a medical record that serves as official documentation of your injuries, their severity, and the treatment required. This documentation provides objective evidence of your condition, which is far more compelling than your personal account alone.
Insurance companies and courts rely heavily on medical records when determining the validity and value of injury claims, so having comprehensive and timely medical documentation can significantly strengthen your position.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Boise Car Accident Claim?
In a Boise car accident claim, liability can extend to various parties depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. Here’s an overview of who might be held liable:
The most obvious liable party is often the driver who caused the accident through negligent behavior. This can include actions like speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, or failing to obey traffic laws. In such cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance company would typically be responsible for covering damages up to the policy limits.
However, liability isn’t always limited to just the drivers involved. Vehicle owners can be held responsible in certain situations, even if they weren’t driving at the time of the accident. This concept, known as “negligent entrustment,” applies when an owner knowingly allows an incompetent or unfit person to drive their vehicle. For instance, if a parent lets their unlicensed teenager drive, or if a car owner lends their vehicle to someone they know is intoxicated, the owner could be held liable for resulting accidents.
In some cases, liability may extend beyond individuals to include other entities. For example:
- Employers: If the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle within the scope of their employment, their employer could be held liable under the doctrine of “respondeat superior.”
- Government entities: If poor road design or maintenance contributed to the accident, the relevant government body responsible for the road could potentially be held liable.
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers: If a vehicle defect or faulty part played a role in causing the accident, the manufacturer might be held responsible under product liability laws.
- Bars or restaurants: Under Idaho’s dram shop laws, establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated persons who then cause an accident could face liability.
It’s important to note that Idaho follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you’re found to be 50% or more at fault for the accident, you cannot recover damages. If you’re less than 50% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How Do I Collect Evidence to Prove Fault in My Boise Personal Injury Claim?
Collecting evidence to prove fault in a personal injury claim is crucial for establishing liability and securing fair compensation. Here’s how victims can gather evidence at the scene and how a Boise car accident lawyer can further assist in this process.
At the scene of the accident, victims should prioritize their safety and seek medical attention if needed. Once it’s safe to do so, they can begin collecting valuable evidence. This includes:
- Taking photos or videos of the accident scene
- Capturing the positions of vehicles, property damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries
- Obtain contact and insurance information from all parties involved and gather names and contact details of any witnesses
A personal injury lawyer specialized in Boise car accidents can significantly enhance the evidence collection process. We can return to the accident scene to gather any additional evidence that may have been overlooked or unavailable immediately after the incident. Lawyers can also obtain official police reports, which often contain crucial details about the accident and may include the responding officer’s assessment of fault.
We also have the resources to access and analyze surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras that might have captured the incident. Additionally, our car crash lawyers in Idaho can engage accident reconstruction experts who can provide professional analysis and testimony, and we can also gather proof of your medical records and lost wages.
Should I Agree to Recorded Statements During a Boise Car Accident Claim?
Making recorded statements during a car accident claim can be risky and potentially detrimental to your case. Here’s why you should avoid doing so:
Firstly, recorded statements can be used against you by insurance companies or opposing parties. These entities are primarily focused on minimizing their financial liability, and they may try to use your words out of context or interpret them in ways that could undermine your claim.
Secondly, immediately after an accident, you may not have a full understanding of the extent of your injuries or the complete picture of how the accident occurred. Shock, adrenaline, or confusion can affect your perception and memory of events. If you make a statement before you have all the facts, you might inadvertently say something inaccurate or incomplete.
Lastly, without legal counsel present, you might not fully understand the implications of the questions being asked or the potential legal consequences of your answers. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions in ways that can elicit responses favorable to their position. A seemingly innocent question could be designed to extract information that could be harmful to your claim.
By refraining from making recorded statements and instead allowing your Boise car accident lawyers to manage all communications, you protect your rights and ensure that any statements made on your behalf are carefully considered and strategically presented to support your claim.
