No one plans for a car accident, but when it happens, the impact can be immediate and overwhelming. You may be left with injuries, vehicle damage, and a long list of unexpected expenses. Calls from insurance adjusters and questions about liability can add to the stress, making it hard to know what steps to take. While Idaho law gives you the right to seek compensation, getting a fair outcome isn’t always simple. Insurance companies focus on minimizing payouts, leaving many accident victims with less than they deserve. Understanding how the law protects you can help you move forward.
Immediate Steps to Take After an Accident
The moments after a car accident can be chaotic, but taking the right steps can protect your health, your claim, and your rights.
- Check for injuries and call 911. Your safety comes first. Even if injuries seem minor, emergency responders can assess the situation and file an official report.
- Move to a safe location. If possible, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Exchange information. Collect names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details from all drivers involved.
- Document the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
- Speak carefully. Avoid admitting fault, even if you think you may have contributed to the accident.
- Seek medical attention. Some injuries take hours or days to appear. A medical evaluation provides documentation that may support your claim later.
- Report the accident. Notify your insurance company promptly, but be cautious when discussing details.
Understanding Idaho’s Fault-Based Insurance System
Idaho follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident must cover the damages. If another driver caused your crash, you have several options for seeking compensation:
- File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance. Their liability coverage should pay for your damages.
- File a claim with your own insurance. If you have collision or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your policy may help cover costs.
- File a lawsuit. If an insurance settlement isn’t enough, you may take legal action against the at-fault driver.
Idaho also follows comparative negligence rules. If you’re partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault, you can still recover 80% of your total damages. However, if you’re more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover compensation. Understanding these rules can help you protect your right to fair compensation.
Types of Compensation You May Recover
If you were injured in a car accident caused by someone else, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Idaho law allows accident victims to seek different types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses. This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and ongoing treatments.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income. If your ability to earn a living is permanently affected, future lost wages may also be included.
- Property damage. You can recover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any damaged belongings.
- Pain and suffering. This covers physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact the accident has on your life.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but you have the right to pursue full and fair compensation for what you’ve lost. We can help you fight for what you deserve.
How We Can Help Protect Your Rights
Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be frustrating. Adjusters may pressure you to accept a quick settlement, often offering less than what your claim is truly worth. They might dispute liability, downplay your injuries, or delay the process to wear you down. At Johnson & Lundgreen, we understand these tactics and work to level the playing field.
We gather the evidence needed to support your claim, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. If necessary, we consult with professionals who can strengthen your case. Our goal is to ensure you are not left with unpaid medical bills, lost wages, or other financial burdens due to someone else’s negligence. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking a case to court, we work to protect your rights.
Take the Next Step Toward Recovery
A car accident can leave you with more than just physical injuries—it can impact your finances, your future, and your peace of mind. You don’t have to handle this alone. Contact Johnson & Lundgreen today for a free consultation. Let’s discuss your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.