Car Accident Lawyer Sioux Falls, SD

Our Sioux Falls, SD car accident lawyer can help should you or your family get involved in an automobile accident. While the modern-day vehicle is much safer than its predecessors, accidents still occur. Even with the many safety features available today, they can’t fully prevent human error or issues like extreme weather or poor road conditions. An attorney from our law office can determine if you qualify for compensation following an accident.

At The Law Offices of Clayborne, Loos & Sabers LLP, our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation in motor vehicle accident injury and wrongful death litigation matters. We understand the profound impact these incidents can have on individuals and their families, and we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.

How Our Team Can Fight for You

At the Law Offices of Clayborne, Loos & Sabers LLP, it’s our goal to help victims and their families receive the necessary compensation following a car accident. There are a few ways that a Sioux Falls car accident lawyer can help, such as by gathering evidence, handling paperwork, and negotiating with insurance companies.

Gathering evidence is necessary in building your case. Evidence can include pictures of the scene, police reports, testimonies, and medical reports. While it’s possible to gather this type of evidence on your own, attorneys can also help gather additional evidence, like CCTV footage or expert testimony from a car accident reconstructionist. Filling out and filing the necessary paperwork can be frustrating and confusing, especially if there’s a lot of legal jargon. You should never speak with a claims adjuster yourself as they often try to force you to accept a low settlement offer or make you unknowingly admit fault. An attorney can handle negotiations and ensure you receive a settlement that matches your current and future needs.

Causes of Car Accidents

Distractions on the road and driving under the influence can result in a car crash. Activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car technologies can divert the driver’s attention and lead to accidents. Exceeding the speed limit reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations, making accidents more likely and more severe. Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of accidents. Engaging in aggressive behaviors like tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, or disregarding traffic laws endangers everyone on the road. Our attorney is equipped to investigate your accident and determine the exact cause and at-fault party for your accident.

The Importance of Legal Help after a Car Accident

The aftermath of a car accident can be difficult to deal with. Dealing with insurance claims, medical bills, and understanding your legal rights can be daunting tasks. This is where the importance of legal help comes into play. A skilled personal injury lawyer can guide you through the complex legal process, advocate on your behalf, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

A lawyer can offer clients many different types of legal services. Firstly, they can investigate the accident thoroughly, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build a strong case. They also have the expertise to assess the true value of your claim, taking into account factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, future treatment needs, and emotional distress.

Compensation for Different Types of Accidents

Compensation following a car accident is broken down into two main categories: economic damages and non-economic damages. Economic damages often carry a specific dollar amount and cover expenses, including medical costs, out-of-pockets expenses, property damage, lost wages, wrongful death, and more.

Non-economic damages are more subjective and covers factors like pain and suffering, emotional distress, blow to one’s reputation, and more. Your case can also potentially qualify for punitive damages, which are used to further punish the other party. While rare, punitive damages might be rewarded if the other party exhibited extreme negligence, like engaging in drunk driving.

With a deep understanding of personal injury law and extensive experience in handling motor vehicle accident cases, our attorneys are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of these claims. We handle a wide range of cases, including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle and pedestrian accidents, public transportation accidents, and wrongful death claims.

Car and Truck Accidents

Our attorneys are skilled in representing individuals injured in car accidents caused by negligent drivers. We work diligently to establish liability, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursue litigation to ensure our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries. When accidents involve large commercial trucks, the consequences can be catastrophic. Our attorneys have a comprehensive understanding of the unique factors involved in truck accident cases, including federal regulations, industry standards, and the multiple parties that may be held liable. We work tirelessly to hold negligent truck drivers, trucking companies, and other responsible parties accountable for the damages caused.

Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, often sustaining severe injuries in accidents. Our attorneys recognize the specific challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims and fight for their rights to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. We advocate for the rights of bicyclists and pedestrians who have been injured due to the negligence of motorists. Our attorneys diligently investigate these cases, gather evidence, and work towards securing the compensation our clients deserve for their injuries and losses.

Public Transportation Accidents

Accidents involving buses, trains, or other forms of public transportation can have devastating consequences. Our attorneys have the expertise to handle claims against government entities, transit authorities, or private companies, ensuring that victims receive the compensation they are entitled to. In cases where motor vehicle accidents result in the tragic loss of a loved one, we offer compassionate and comprehensive legal representation to surviving family members. We pursue wrongful death claims to seek justice and secure financial support for the dependents left behind.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

After a car accident, it is essential to take immediate steps to protect your well-being and your legal rights. Our car accident lawyers understand the importance of acting swiftly and thoughtfully following an accident. By following these important steps, you can help protect your health and set yourself up for a successful personal injury claim.

• Ensure Safety

The safety of all parties involved should be your top priority. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Turn on hazard lights and set up warning triangles or flares, especially if visibility is low.

• Call 911

Dial 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured. Promptly inform the authorities about the location and details of the accident.

• Collect Witness Information

Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other drivers involved. Gather names, phone numbers, addresses, license plate numbers, driver’s license details, and insurance policy information. If there are witnesses, obtain their contact information as well.

• Gather Evidence

If it is safe to do so, take photographs or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, and any other relevant evidence. This visual documentation can be valuable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as medical records, repair estimates, receipts for vehicle repairs, and any other relevant documents. These records will be important for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.

• Report the Accident

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate details and avoid speculating or admitting fault. Remember, it is advisable to consult with an attorney before providing a recorded statement to any insurance company.

• Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t believe you are seriously injured, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may have delayed symptoms, and a medical evaluation can help detect and document any injuries sustained in the accident.

• Contact an Experienced Lawyer

It is in your best interest to consult with an experienced car accident attorney, particularly if you have sustained injuries or significant property damage. An attorney can help protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and maximize your potential compensation. Remember, each car accident case is unique, and the specific steps may vary based on the circumstances.

Sioux Falls Car Accident Infographic

Sioux Falls Car Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 43,000 people are killed in car accidents each year. NHTSA data also reveals that July to September tends to be the deadliest period of the year for car accidents, with October to December following close behind. The first three months of the year are generally the least deadly, although thousands of accidents still occur. Contact a car accident lawyer for legal assistance if you or loved one has been injured in a crash caused by the negligence of another party or parties. Make sure you get the financial compensation you deserve for the injuries you have suffered. You may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.

Sioux Falls Car Accident FAQs

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, it’s essential to consult with a car accident lawyer promptly to understand the specific deadlines that may apply to your case, as certain circumstances can affect the time limit.

How can a car accident lawyer help me with my claim?

A car accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance throughout your claim process. They can:

• Evaluate your case: Assess the strengths and weaknesses of your claim and determine the potential value of your damages.
• Handle insurance matters: Communicate and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to pursue fair compensation.
• Gather evidence: Conduct a thorough investigation, collect evidence, and interview witnesses to support your claim.
• Advocate for your rights: Protect your legal rights and interests, ensuring that you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies or other parties involved.
• Pursue legal action: If necessary, file a lawsuit and represent you in court, presenting a strong case to seek maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.

What damages can I recover in a car accident case?

In a car accident case, you may be eligible to recover various types of damages, including:

• Medical expenses: Compensation for past and future medical bills, including hospital stays, surgeries, medication, therapy, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages: Reimbursement for the income you have lost due to your injuries, including future earning capacity if applicable.
• Property damage: Compensation for the repair or replacement of your damaged vehicle or other property.
• Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other intangible losses.
• Punitive damages: In exceptional cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party.

What if the insurance company denies or undervalues my car accident claim?

Insurance companies may attempt to deny or undervalue car accident claims to protect their bottom line. In such situations, a car accident lawyer can help:

• Review the denial or offer: Assess the insurance company’s decision and determine whether it is fair and in line with your damages.
• Negotiate on your behalf: Engage in negotiations with the insurance company to pursue a fair settlement that adequately compensates you.
• File a lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your lawyer can initiate a lawsuit and represent you in court to seek the compensation you deserve.

How do I choose the right car accident lawyer in Sioux Falls?

When selecting a car accident lawyer in Sioux Falls, consider the following factors:

• Experience and knowledge: Look for a lawyer with significant experience in handling car accident cases and a track record of successful outcomes.
• Reputation and reviews: Research the lawyer’s reputation, read client reviews and testimonials to gauge their professionalism and client satisfaction.
• Communication and personal attention: Choose a lawyer who is accessible, communicates clearly, and provides personalized attention to your case.
• Resources and support staff: Assess the firm’s resources and support staff, as it can impact the efficiency and effectiveness of handling your claim.
• Initial consultation: Take advantage of an initial consultation to discuss your case, ask questions, and determine if the lawyer is the right fit for you.

How do I know if I qualify for compensation?

To qualify for compensation in a car accident requires determining who’s at-fault. Nevada is a shared fault state, meaning parties that are at least 50% responsible for an accident and their insurance companies must compensate victims. This rule applies even under circumstances such as if bad weather played a role or even if the injured driver was wearing a seatbelt.

Determining who’s at-fault—even partially—often necessitates working with a qualified attorney. Trying to navigate the complex legal system yourself can be difficult, especially when dealing with immediate medical needs.

Contact Our Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Today

Dealing with a car accident can cause a lot of emotional distress alongside monetary expenses. The Law Offices of Clayborne, Loos & Sabers LLP helps victims and their families receive the necessary compensation following a car accident. Speak with a Sioux Falls car accident lawyer today to see how our legal team can help! At The Law Offices of Clayborne, Loos & Sabers LLP, our priority is to provide personalized attention and support to our clients throughout the legal process. We believe in open communication, and our attorneys are committed to explaining the legal complexities, addressing concerns, and guiding clients towards informed decisions. If you or a loved one has been injured or lost their life in a motor vehicle accident, we encourage you to contact our firm for a consultation. Our skilled attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.