FAQs - Personal Injury
Utah Personal Injury Lawyer
The Law Offices of Steven B. Smith in Salt Lake City answer questions prospective clients frequently ask about personal injury accidents. Because no two cases are alike, we urge you to contact our office to discuss your specific situation.
- How do I know if I have grounds for a personal injury case?
- I am not sure I can afford an attorney. How will I pay attorney's fees?
- The insurance company representative said I do not need a lawyer to settle my claim. Is he correct?
- The insurance company asked for a recorded statement. What should I do?
- What if I have serious injuries and the person who caused my injury does not have insurance?
- How much can I recover for my injury accident?
- Is there a time limit for filing a lawsuit to recover damages?
- In a case of wrongful death, who can file a lawsuit?
How do I know if I have grounds for a personal injury case?
You will need the assistance of a personal injury lawyer to review the facts surrounding your case and evaluate the merit of your damage claims. Please call the Law Offices of Steven B. Smith to take advantage of our no cost, no obligation case evaluation.
I am not sure I can afford an attorney. How will I pay attorney's fees?
Our law firm takes personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means legal fees are paid out of the compensation we recover for you.
The insurance company representative said I do not need a lawyer to settle my claim. Is he correct?
It is important to remember, an insurance company's goal is to pay as few claims as possible and to minimize any amounts paid out. While their interest is in their bottom line, your interest is in obtaining the maximum amount possible to cover your medical expenses.
There is no denying the bargaining power of a lawyer who is prepared to take your case to court. Your chances of receiving the full compensation to which you are entitled are better with a lawyer than without one.
The insurance company asked for a recorded statement. What should I do?
Insurance companies that have policyholder claims are entitled to get recorded statements regarding accidents, however, you should retain an attorney before you do so. Without the guidance of an attorney you may offer statements that undermine your claim. If you are asked for a statement, tell the insurance company representative you intend to hire a lawyer and he will contact them to arrange a recorded statement.
What if I have serious injuries and the person who caused my injury does not have insurance?
You should never assume there is no alternative to recover compensation, when the negligent party is not insured. In the case of car, truck and motorcycle accidents, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may be an option. As your personal injury attorney, Steven Smith will investigate all possible sources to collect for damages.
How much can I recover for my injury accident?
In determining the value of a claim for damages, numerous factors must be weighed such as whether or not negligence was involved, the severity of your injuries, the type of injuries you suffered (i.e. brain injury, spinal cord injury, paralysis, etc.), the cost of your medical treatment, rehabilitation, and/or assistive care as well as the extent of your pain and suffering.
Is there a time limit for filing a lawsuit to recover damages?
In Utah, there is a two (2) year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, however, it is essential to contact an attorney to find out if a variation may apply to your case. If you miss the deadline, you will be forever barred from doing so. Legal help at the outset will ensure that your rights are protected and will increase the likelihood of positive results.
In a case of wrongful death, who can file a lawsuit?
Utah statutes provide that a parent or guardian may file a suit in the event of a child's wrongful death. When the victim is an adult, his heirs, or personal representative on behalf of his heirs may pursue recovery of damage
If someone else's negligence is responsible for your injuries or the death of a family member, call the Law Offices of Steven B. Smith at (810) 534-4443 to arrange a consultation. We will be glad to review your case and provide an evaluation at no charge to you.
