Whether you’ve been injured in a car crash on I-84, a farm equipment incident, or a slip-and-fall in a Twin Falls store, accidents in Idaho can leave victims and their families reeling. Medical bills, emotional stress, and legal uncertainty often follow—especially if the accident was serious or fatal.
This guide provides essential Idaho accident victim resources to help you take the next steps after a serious injury or the loss of a loved one. Learn how to get medical help, request police reports, access emotional support, and protect your rights under Idaho law.
Help for Injury Victims After Accidents in Idaho
Injury accidents happen every day in Idaho, from truck crashes on rural roads to ski injuries at resort towns. Recovery starts with treatment—but knowing what to do afterward can make a big difference in your financial and legal outcome.
Emergency Medical and Rehabilitation Services
Idaho has several regional trauma centers and rehab facilities for victims of serious accidents:
- St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center – Level II trauma care for Boise and surrounding areas
- Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (Idaho Falls) – The only Level II trauma center in eastern Idaho
- St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center (Boise/Nampa) – Emergency and orthopedic recovery services
- Idaho Elks Rehab (Boise) – Specialized services for stroke, brain injury, and orthopedic trauma
For long-term support, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW) offers access to Medicaid, disability services, and behavioral health programs.
Legal Rights After an Injury Accident in Idaho
Idaho is an at-fault state, meaning the party responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for paying damages. Idaho also follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover compensation. If you are less than 50% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
Injury victims in Idaho may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Future care or rehabilitation costs
The time limit to file a personal injury claim in Idaho is two years from the date of the accident.
Resources for Families After Fatal Accidents in Idaho
When an accident causes the unexpected death of a loved one, families are left facing grief, confusion, and sometimes financial hardship. Idaho provides emotional and legal resources to support you during this difficult time.
Grief Counseling and Family Support Services
If you’ve lost someone in a fatal crash or other accident, the following programs can help:
- First Call for Help – Idaho 211 – Call 2-1-1 for local grief and mental health services
- St. Luke’s Bereavement and Counseling Services – Offers support groups and one-on-one counseling
- Hospice of North Idaho – Grief support for children, adults, and families
- The Compassionate Friends – Idaho Chapters – Peer-led grief support for families who’ve lost a child
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Idaho
Under Idaho Code § 5-311, surviving spouses, children, stepchildren, or parents may file a wrongful death claim. If there are no immediate family members, the personal representative of the estate may also pursue compensation.
Damages in a wrongful death case may include:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical expenses prior to death
- Lost income and financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
You must file a wrongful death lawsuit within two years of the date of death.
How to Request a Police or Accident Report in Idaho
Crash reports provide key evidence for legal claims and insurance disputes. They include officer observations, witness statements, and fault assessments.
Obtaining a Crash Report in Idaho
To get a crash report, contact the law enforcement agency that handled the accident:
- Idaho State Police (ISP): Visit https://isp.idaho.gov and request a report online or by mail
- City Police Departments: Contact the city’s records department directly (e.g., Boise Police Department)
- County Sheriff’s Offices: Reach out to the records unit for the county where the accident occurred
You’ll need:
- Date and location of the crash
- Names of drivers involved
- Case or incident number (if available)
- A processing fee (usually $7 to $10)
Reports are generally available within 5 to 10 business days.
Financial and Social Services Support in Idaho
When an accident causes injury or death, victims and families may struggle to pay bills, afford care, or put food on the table. Idaho offers several programs to help during times of crisis.
Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW)
IDHW oversees programs that support accident victims and low-income families, including:
- Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI) – Financial assistance for families with children
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Help with food costs
- Medicaid – Health coverage for people with disabilities or low income
- Behavioral Health Services – Mental health and substance use disorder support
Apply online at https://healthandwelfare.idaho.gov
Idaho Crime Victims Compensation Program
If the accident involved a crime (such as a DUI, hit-and-run, or violent act), the Crime Victims Compensation Program may reimburse victims or their families for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills
- Counseling costs
- Lost wages
Visit https://crimevictimcomp.idaho.gov or call (208) 334-6080 to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accidents in Idaho
Accidents bring up many questions. Here are some of the most common ones asked by injury victims and grieving families in Idaho.
How long do I have to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit?
You must file within two years from the date of injury or death. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation.
Can I recover damages if I was partly at fault?
Yes, as long as you were less than 50% responsible. Your compensation will be reduced based on your share of fault.
Can I sue the government if I was injured on public property?
Yes, but special rules apply. You must provide notice of your claim within 180 days of the accident under the Idaho Tort Claims Act.
Do I need a police report for my claim?
Yes. A crash report provides vital evidence about fault, damage, and witness testimony. It’s often required by insurance companies and lawyers.
Do I need an attorney after a serious or fatal accident?
In most serious cases, yes. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, deal with insurers, and file claims on time—giving you the best chance at a fair outcome.
Call an Idaho Accident Attorney Today
After a serious accident or the unexpected loss of a loved one, it’s hard to know where to turn. But you’re not alone.
An experienced Idaho accident attorney can help you:
- Access crash reports and medical records
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- File personal injury or wrongful death claims
- Seek the compensation you and your family need to move forward
Don’t wait until deadlines pass or insurers offer low settlements. Call an Idaho accident lawyer today to get the support and legal guidance you deserve.