An overview of Idaho auto accident laws

Auto accidents are not uncommon in Idaho. Following an unfortunate car accident, you may feel overwhelmed and shocked, but this is the time to take important steps. If the accident was a result of someone's negligence, you have the right to get compensated for your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. Once you feel a little better, consider talking to an experienced Idaho car accident atto ey, so that you don't have to deal with everything on your own. In this post, we are discussing the auto accident laws in the state.

Know your rights & duties

Immediately after an accident, it is in your best interests that you call the police. Make sure that you get medical attention right away, which can increase your chances of getting a fair compensation. Vehicle drivers are required to notify the local police department about the accident if there was death or injuries involved. The crash must be also reported if the property damage is evaluated at more than $1,500. There are also a few rights worth knowing. Firstly, if you don't like the settlement offered by the insurance company, you have the right to refuse. If your settlement didn't cover for losses or damages that you have suffered, you can file a lawsuit against the party at fault.

Filing a claim

Idaho follows the at-fault rule in case of car accidents. This means that if you were injured because of someone's negligence, you have to file the claim with the at-fault party's insurance company. Note that Idaho is not a PIP (personal injury protection) state. Now, if the insurance company doesn't offer a settlement acceptable to you, or denies your claim, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations in Idaho allows just 2 years from the date of the crash or accident, to file such personal injury lawsuits. If you have just a property damage lawsuit, the time period is 3 years, from the date of accident.

Call an accident atto ey

Sometimes, it is hard to understand whether the insurance company is making a fair offer, and it may be necessary to pursue further legal action. Your accident atto ey is your best bet at knowing what's right for you. Most atto eys take up such lawsuits on a contingency basis, depending on what they are doing for you. If needed, your atto ey can take things to trial too.