Whether you’ve been injured in a skiing accident near Park City or a car crash on I-15 in Salt Lake City, accidents in Utah can leave victims with many unanswered questions. Navigating the legal and insurance process can feel overwhelming, especially while you’re recovering from physical and emotional trauma. This FAQ page offers straightforward answers to some of the most common concerns after an accident in Utah.
What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Utah?
In Utah, you typically have four years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury claim. However, if the case involves wrongful death, the deadline is two years from the date of death. Government claims may have even shorter timeframes, so it’s best to act quickly.
What if I was injured in a skiing or snowboarding accident?
If your injury was caused by another person’s negligence, a resort’s unsafe conditions, or defective equipment, you may have a claim. Utah has strong recreational safety laws, but proving fault can be challenging. Be sure to report the incident and collect witness statements and photos if possible.
Can I recover damages if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover compensation as long as you were less than 50 percent at fault, but your award will be reduced based on your share of the blame. If you were more than 50 percent responsible, you may not be eligible for compensation.
Do I need to report every car accident?
You must report an accident to local law enforcement if it results in injury, death, or property damage of $1,500 or more. Getting a police report also provides an official record that can support your insurance or injury claim. Always contact authorities after a crash.
How do no-fault insurance laws work in Utah?
Utah is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance company pays for your initial medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. You can step outside the no-fault system and file a lawsuit if your injuries meet a certain severity threshold or your medical bills exceed $3,000. A lawyer can help determine if your case qualifies.
Can I sue for emotional trauma?
Yes. Utah law allows injury victims to seek damages for emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life. Emotional harm is often considered part of “non-economic damages” in a personal injury case. Documentation from mental health professionals can strengthen your claim.
What should I do after a slip and fall accident?
Seek medical attention, report the fall to the property owner or manager, and take photos of the scene. Try to get witness contact information if anyone saw what happened. Unsafe property conditions, such as spills or broken stairs, may give rise to a premises liability claim.
What happens if the at-fault driver has no insurance?
You may be able to recover compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you carry it on your policy. This optional coverage can help cover your losses if the other driver has no insurance or not enough to pay for your damages. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
Can I still file a claim if I was injured while visiting Utah?
Yes. If your accident occurred in Utah, your legal rights are governed by Utah laws—even if you live in another state. You may want to work with a Utah-based attorney to help manage deadlines, paperwork, and communication while you’re back home.
How do I get a copy of a crash report in Utah?
You can request a crash report from the Utah Department of Public Safety’s Highway Patrol Division. Visit https://highwaypatrol.utah.gov for instructions and forms. You’ll need to provide basic details such as the report number, date, and location of the accident.
What compensation can I receive for an injury?
Compensation in Utah may include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage. In serious cases, victims may also seek damages for permanent disability or disfigurement. The amount depends on the specifics of your injury and the available insurance coverage.
Are there damage caps in Utah injury cases?
Yes. Utah limits non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases to $450,000. There are no caps on non-economic damages in most other personal injury cases, including car accidents or premises liability. Economic damages, like medical costs and lost wages, are not capped.