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Montana car accident? Start here for maximum compensation.

Montana car accident? Start here for maximum compensation.

Hurt in a car accident in Montana? Compensation starts here.

What to do immediately after a car accident in Montana

After you’ve been in an accident, take these precautions ASAP to minimize your risk of serious injury, and maximize your chance of a successful claim.

  • Contact the police
  • Collect evidence
  • Seek medical attention

Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s vital that you get examined by a doctor.

Contact the police

After your accident, be sure to call the police and obtain a police report. This is essential for filing any insurance claims, as it provides objective evidence of what happened.

Take photographs and collect evidence

If possible, take photos at the scene of the accident. Collect evidence such as witness statements, any medical paperwork from your treatment, and receipts for damages to your vehicle.

Collect the contact information of everyone involved in the accident, including witnesses, passengers and other drivers.

Seek medical attention

The most important thing you should do is to seek medical attention immediately if needed. Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, some symptoms may take time to develop. If you wait too long, your claim could be affected.

It’s also important to follow through with any recommended tests or treatments. If you don’t, insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t severe enough to require treatment.

Montana car accident statute of limitations

It’s important to know that you only have a limited amount of time to file an insurance claim or lawsuit after a car accident in Montana.

The statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident, so be sure to take action quickly if you believe your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence.

If you wait longer than three years after the accident, then you will likely be barred from seeking compensation.

Why call a personal injury lawyer after a car accident?

Hiring a personal injury lawyer for your car accident case has numerous benefits. A lawyer can help:

  • Determine your rights
  • Give you access to important resources
  • Negotiate on your behalf
  • Fight for fair compensation

Insurance companies routinely bully victims who don’t have legal representation.

Determine your rights

A personal injury lawyer can help you determine your rights and what options are available to you. They will assess the facts of your case, investigate the scene and advise you on the best course of action to take.

Get access to resources like expert witnesses

A personal injury lawyer can also provide access to resources like expert witnesses who can help bolster your case. They will be able to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and even represent you in court if necessary.

Harness an experienced negotiator

It’s a sad fact that insurance companies take advantage of victims who don’t have legal representation. But with a personal injury lawyer on your side, you’ll have an experienced negotiator who can help you get the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Fight for fair compensation

Finally, a personal injury lawyer will fight for fair compensation. They know how to calculate the right amount of damages that you’re entitled to and make sure that you receive it.

What happens during a Montana car accident claim?

So, you’ve decided to seek compensation for your injuries. What happens next? Let’s take a look at:

  • Evidence collection
  • Documentation submission
  • Settlement negotiation
  • Court representation

Only a small percentage of injury cases go to court.

Your lawyer collects evidence

Your lawyer will collect all the necessary evidence, including witness statements, medical documents and photographs of the scene. They will analyze this evidence to build your case and determine who is liable for your injuries.

Your lawyer submits documentation regarding bills, lost wages, etc.

Your lawyer will also submit any documentation regarding your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other financial losses related to the accident.

Your lawyer negotiates with the insurance company

Once all the evidence has been gathered, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. If a settlement cannot be reached, they may even proceed to court.

However, the odds of any injury case going to court are slim. In fact, most injury cases are settled out of court.

Your lawyer represents you in court (if necessary)

If the case does go to court, your lawyer will represent you and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

At court, your lawyer will present your case and argue for the maximum compensation possible. They may also call on expert witnesses to testify in your favor. In the end, a judge or jury will decide how much you should be awarded.

Go with Glacier for your car accident case

Have you been hurt in a car accident in the state of Montana? If so, then you may be entitled to compensation.

“I used Glacier Law Firm’s services after my wife got T-boned by a drunk driver. Alex and his office…went above and beyond. The result was more than we dared hope for. I would strongly recommend Alex and his office to anyone.”

Jacob Turley

The attorneys at Glacier Law Firm are ready to help you get back on your feet. Contact us right now for a free consultation, and let’s get started winning the compensation you deserve.

Montana car accident claim FAQ

Still have questions about seeking compensation for your car accident? Start here.

1. What are the first steps I should take after a car accident?

The first thing you should do after a car accident is seek medical attention. Even if you don’t believe that your injuries are serious, you should still get checked out by a medical professional. Additionally, you should gather evidence from the scene and document any information about the other driver(s)

2. How do I know if I need a lawyer?

If you’re seeking financial compensation for your injuries, it’s a good idea to hire a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help you determine your rights and guide you through the legal process. They will also be able to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and represent you in court if necessary.

3. How much will it cost to hire a lawyer?

The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer will depend on the specifics of your case. Generally, lawyers charge a contingency fee (a percentage of the final award).

4. What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, it may be difficult to seek compensation. In these cases, a personal injury lawyer can help you determine your legal options. They may be able to pursue compensation from other sources, such as your own insurance policy or the driver’s personal assets.

5. How do I file a claim with my own insurance company?

If you’re filing a claim with your own insurance company, it’s important to understand the terms of your policy. Your lawyer can help you navigate the process and ensure that you receive the amount of damages that you’re entitled to and make sure that you receive it.

6. How long will it take to get compensated?

The amount of time it takes for a personal injury claim to be resolved depends on the specifics of your case. Generally, most claims are settled out of court, in which case the process can be relatively quick. If your case goes to trial, then it may take longer for a resolution.

7. What if I’m not happy with the settlement offer?

If you’re not happy with the settlement offer, your lawyer can negotiate on your behalf and help you get a more favorable outcome. They may also be able to advise you on whether or not to proceed with the case in court.

8. What are my rights if I’m injured in a car accident?

If you’re injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

9. What are my rights if my car is damaged in a car accident?

If your car is damaged in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. You should document the damage and contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

10. In Montana, what should I do if I’m contacted by the other driver’s insurance company?

If you’re contacted by the other driver’s insurance company, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to accept their first offer. Your lawyer can help you negotiate a fair settlement. Additionally, it’s important to remember that all communication should be done through your lawyer, not directly with the other driver’s insurance company.

11. Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company?

No, you should not give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting with your lawyer first. Your lawyer can advise you on how to proceed and ensure that your interests are protected.

12. How do I know if I have a case?

It’s best to consult with a personal injury lawyer to determine whether or not you have a case. Your lawyer will be able to assess the specifics of your situation and advise you on the best course of action. They will also be able to explain your legal rights and provide valuable guidance throughout the process.

13. What are some common causes of car accidents?

Common causes of car accidents include distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, reckless driving, failing to obey traffic laws, and poor weather conditions.

Montana is one of the states with the highest rates of drunk driving-related accidents. It is important to always be aware of your surroundings when behind the wheel and drive responsibly.

14. What are the most common injuries in car accidents?

The most common injuries in car accidents include whiplash, broken bones, head trauma, internal bleeding, spinal cord injuries, and soft tissue damage. Depending on the severity of the accident, victims may suffer from physical and emotional trauma, as well.

15. How do I know if I have a valid claim?

To determine if you have a valid claim, it’s best to consult with a personal injury lawyer. They will be able to assess the specifics of your situation and advise you on the best course of action. Your lawyer will also be able to explain your legal rights and provide valuable guidance throughout the process.

16. How do I prove liability in a car accident?

In order to prove liability in a car accident, you will need to establish that the other driver was at fault. To do this, you will need to gather evidence, such as photos of the scene, eyewitness testimonies, police reports, and medical records. Your lawyer can help you compile all of this evidence and present it in court.

17. What should I look for in a good car accident lawyer in Montana?

When looking for a car accident lawyer in Montana, it’s important to find one that has experience with the specific laws of your state. You should also look for a lawyer who is knowledgeable about the facts of your case and has a successful track record in car accident cases.

Additionally, you should find a lawyer who has excellent communication and negotiation skills, as well as a commitment to providing personalized service.

18. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

In Montana, the law states that if you are partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation.

However, your damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. It’s important to note that an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand how Montana’s comparative negligence rule applies to your case.

19. How do I calculate my damages?

Your damages are the amount of money you are entitled to receive in compensation for your losses. Your lawyer will be able to help you calculate your damages by taking into account factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

20. What are some common types of damages in car accident cases?

Common types of damages in car accident cases include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

In addition to these economic losses, you may also be able to recover compensation for non-economic losses, such as mental anguish and emotional distress. Your lawyer will be able to explain which types of damages may be available to you in your particular case.

21. Are there any time limits for filing a car accident case in Montana?

In Montana, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you fail to do so within this period, you may lose your right to compensation. It is important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after a car accident to ensure that you meet all legal deadlines.

22. In Montana, can you get pain and suffering from a car accident claim?

Yes, you may be able to receive compensation for pain and suffering as a result of your car accident. The amount of damages awarded will depend on the severity of your injury and the extent to which it has impacted your life. Your lawyer will be able to assess the specifics of your case and advise you on the best course of action.

23. Do I need to go to court for a car accident claim in Montana?

It is not always necessary to go to court in order to recover compensation for a car accident claim. In many cases, your lawyer will be able to negotiate with the other party’s insurance company and reach a settlement outside of court. However, if the case does need to go to trial, your lawyer will be there to represent you and ensure that your rights are fully protected.

24. In Montana, what are punitive damages for car accidents?

Punitive damages are awarded in Montana car accident cases if the at-fault party is found to have been particularly reckless or negligent. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter them from engaging in similar conduct in the future.

Punitive damages can be substantial, but they are rarely awarded. Your lawyer can explain the specifics of punitive damages in your case.

About

Hi I'm Wayne Olson, attorney at Glacier Law Firm. If you've been injured in an accident you've come to the right place. We're here to get you the compensation you deserve.

*The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.

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