Utah is one of the few states that has a no-fault auto insurance system. If you are injured in a car accident, you will be covered by your insurance for your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages. This coverage is available regardless of who is at fault for the accident. However, there are damages that you wouldn’t be entitled to, such as pain and suffering.
A Salt Lake City car accident lawyer from Valiente Mott could help you navigate Utah’s no-fault car insurance system. We help our clients obtain compensation, medical care, rehabilitation services, and replacement income. We are experienced, knowledgeable, and committed to success because we know the difference it can make in our clients’ lives. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation if you’ve been seriously hurt in a car accident and have questions about the no-fault system.
What is No-Fault Insurance?
Utah’s no-fault insurance system requires all drivers to have a minimum of $3,000 in no-fault coverage, commonly referred to as “personal injury protection” or “PIP” coverage. This system is designed to limit litigation and avoid delays in seeking medical care or lost wages after a car accident. Under this system, you file a claim on your insurance–instead of suing the person responsible for the crash. However, as noted above, there are also drawbacks. For example, you cannot recover for pain and suffering, and in a serious accident, it would be easy to exceed coverage limits on your PIP policy.
Stepping Outside of Utah’s No-Fault System
However, there are exceptions that allow you to file a personal injury lawsuit. To pursue this option, you must meet specific threshold requirements.
You must have at least $3,000 in medical expenses. Or you must have suffered specific, severe injuries. In Utah, the types of injuries that qualify under this threshold include permanent disability, permanent impairment, permanent disfigurement, or bodily dismemberment.
If any of the above is true, you can step outside the no-fault system and pursue damages against the at-fault driver in a personal injury claim. Our car accident attorneys in Salt Lake City could help you pursue fair and reasonable compensation to cover your losses and damages.
Call Valiente Mott For a Free Consultation
If you are unsure of your rights following an accident in Salt Lake City, the team at Valiente Mott is ready to help. The no-fault insurance system is complicated, and we can advise you on how best to proceed with your case. Our goal is to protect the injured and ensure they are not out-muscled, out-maneuvered, or manipulated by insurance companies or corporations. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule a free consultation. We work on a contingency basis, so there are no upfront legal fees.