Auto Accidents
Based in Salt Lake City, The Gooch Firm, P.C. represents clients throughout Utah and Idaho in personal injury claims arising from auto accidents. Our attorneys and staff are genuinely committed to helping our clients recover both financially and emotionally after an accident, bringing our experience and skill to bear in every case.
Causes of Car Accidents
Generally, every driver on the road has a duty to operate his or her car with ordinary and responsible care. When a driver breaches this duty and causes injury or death to another, the injured party or the deceased victim's family may recover compensation for the other driver's negligence or wrongful conduct behind the wheel. Negligent and/or reckless driving includes, but is not limited to:
- Speeding
- Disobeying traffic signs or signals
- Cell phone use and texting
- Failing to be mindful of motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians
- Disregarding weather or traffic conditions
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
When an accident results in injury, compensation usually includes economic damages, such as medical expenses and lost income, and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Dealing with Insurance Companies after an Accident
Both Utah and Idaho require drivers to carry liability insurance to pay for the financial costs of accidents, such as property damage and medical bills. However, when an accident results in serious injuries, such as brain injury or spinal cord injury, policy minimums are unlikely to adequately compensate the victim. Also making it difficult to receive proper compensation for damages, many people illegally drive with no insurance coverage at all.
In the case that you were injured in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you will need to make a claim with your own insurance company to receive compensation for your injuries under your own policy. However, your insurance policy will generally only compensate you in an amount that is within your policy limits.
Because of these insurance requirements, recovering for a personal injury or wrongful death claim arising from an automobile or traffic accident will generally involve dealing with insurance companies. It is important to understand that insurance adjusters do not aim to maximize the value of a victim's claim. Rather, insurance companies often undervalue claims, working to benefit their own bottom line. Our attorneys possess and in-depth understanding of the methods employed by insurance companies to minimize payouts. Also, we consider all sources of possible recovery, including auto liability insurance, umbrella coverage, and health and disability insurance. This knowledge and ingenuity allows us to accurately assess claims, and obtain full and fair compensation on behalf of our clients.
Seek Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers
Our firm has significant experience representing victims of all types of automobile accidents, including victims who have suffered serious injuries and death. If you or someone you love has been injured as the result of another person's careless or reckless driving, please contact The Gooch Firm for a free initial consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay a fee if we recover for you. Se habla español.
