Have you ever been in a car accident in Boise?
Don’t let a car accident leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain – let us guide you through the process.
There were eight fatalities in Boise out of the 277 recorded statewide in 2023. [1]
Knowing how to act quickly and decisively ensures your safety and protects your rights. Here we will provide step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure you handle the situation carefully and courageously.
Here are some steps to consider in the immediate aftermath of an accident in Boise.
1. Assessing your injuries and promptly seeking medical care
2. Gathering information from the parties involved
3. Collecting evidence from the scene of the accident
4. Reaching out to law enforcement and submitting an accident report
5. Keeping records of your injuries and medical reports
6. Inform your insurance company
7. Evaluating and recording vehicle property damage
Checking for Your Injuries and Seeking Medical Attention
Check for your injuries and seek medical attention immediately after a car accident, as the shock and adrenaline rush following a collision can mask symptoms of injuries. Even if you do not experience any visible injuries, keep in mind that specific injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms.
Check for injuries on your loved ones or anyone involved in the accident and seek medical assistance immediately. Call emergency services or ask someone to call for an ambulance. Whether you have minor cuts and bruises or more severe injuries, you should have a medical professional assess your condition and provide the necessary treatment.
Injuries sustained in traffic collisions may have long-term damages if not promptly treated. Seeking medical attention promptly can also help in documenting any injuries from the car accident, which can be vital for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Collecting Information From the Other Parties Involved
When involved in an accident, you must gather accurate contact information from the other parties involved and any witnesses present. It includes obtaining the full names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information of all drivers involved in the accident as it facilitates communication and exchange of information.
Gathering Evidence From the Accident Scene
Gathering evidence for the investigation will help you later; evidence such as photos, including photographs of the scene, any relevant objects or items, and any physical injuries. To properly document and store photo evidence, use a high-quality camera or smartphone, take clear and focused shots from multiple angles, and include a timestamp or date in the photo’s metadata.
Storing these photos on a secure, password-protected device or cloud storage will help ensure their integrity and admissibility. Record the witness statements in writing, audio, or video format, and ensure that the witness provides their full name, contact information, and signature.
Contacting Law Enforcement and Filing an Accident Report
Once the accident occurs, promptly contact your local law enforcement agency to report the incident, providing details such as the location, time, and a brief description of what transpired. When law enforcement arrives at the scene, provide accurate information about the incident.
The officers will assess the situation, gather information from all involved parties, and document their findings. Filing an accident report is a formal documentation process that helps establish an official record of the incident. Obtain a copy of this report for your records, as it can be valuable when dealing with insurance claims and legal matters.
Even in cases where law enforcement may not respond to the scene, you can file a report at the nearest police station or through the appropriate online channels, following the specific procedures mandated by the jurisdiction. The sooner this report is filed, the better, as delays can hinder the accuracy and reliability of the information.
Documenting Your Injuries and Obtaining Necessary Medical Reports
After being involved in an auto accident, thoroughly document any injuries sustained and obtain necessary medical reports from healthcare providers. The medical records from healthcare providers should provide thorough documentation of the injuries, including X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans if applicable.
The report should also detail the medical treatment received, such as surgeries, medications, physical therapy, or other medical interventions, and any ongoing treatments needed, such as follow-up appointments, rehabilitation, or long-term monitoring of injuries.
Notifying Your Insurance Company
Notifying your insurance company after a car crash helps initiate the claims process and ensures you receive the necessary support for repairs, medical bills, and other related costs. Initial settlement offers from the insurance company may not fully cover the total damages suffered.
Let your lawyers review these offers before accepting or signing any papers. They can identify any discrepancies and ensure that you receive the compensation you are owed. It’s common for insurance adjusters to dispute the total damages claimed by the policyholder. In such cases, take vigilant action to protect your rights.
Assessing and Documenting Property Damage to Your Vehicle
Thoroughly assess and document property damage to your vehicle after the car accident. Inspect the bodywork, mechanical components, glass, paint, and other areas for visible damage. Take detailed photographs and notes of all the damage you observe. It may serve as valuable evidence for insurance claims and repairs.
Consult with a trusted repair shop to understand the full extent of the damage and the estimated cost of repairs. Collect repair estimates or invoices from the repair shop for future reference. By thoroughly assessing and documenting the property damage to your vehicle, you can streamline the repair process and maximize the compensation you receive from your insurance policies.
Filing an Insurance Claim
After a motor vehicle accident in Boise, file an accident claim to seek insurance coverage for your economic and non-economic damages as well as punitive damages. Contacting an experienced car accident attorney can help navigate the injury claim process and ensure that your rights are protected.
They can assist in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary. It’s significant to file an insurance claim within the two-year Statute of Limitations for personal injury cases in Boise, Idaho, as failing to do so within the time frame may result in losing your right to seek compensation. [2]
Potential compensation available for automobile accidents in Boise may include coverage for vehicle repairs, medical expenses, lost wages, and disability accommodation. Depending on the extent of the damages and injuries, compensation for personal injury claims may vary, but it’s vital to seek fair compensation to cover all related expenses.
Goldberg & Loren’s knowledgeable accident lawyers will work to ensure you receive the maximum compensation and will provide support as you recover.
FAQs
After a car accident in Boise, prioritize safety by checking for injuries and moving to a safe location. Exchange information with the other parties involved and report the incident to the police. Document the scene, and if necessary, seek medical attention promptly.
It's advisable to contact an attorney after a car accident in Boise, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. Our attorney can help navigate insurance claims, assess liability, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
To ensure fair compensation for damages and injuries resulting from a car accident in Boise, it is recommended to gather thorough evidence and seek legal representation to navigate the claims process and negotiate with insurance companies.
Sources:
[1] Idaho saw over 270 traffic deaths in 2023. It’s the highest number of deaths in decades. (2024, January 17). East Idaho News. https://www.eastidahonews.com/2024/01/idaho-saw-over-270-traffic-deaths-in-2023-its-the-highest-number-of-deaths-in-decades/
[2] Section 5-219 – Idaho State Legislature. (n.d.). https://legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title5/t5ch2/sect5-219/
