Auto Accident Injury in Bozeman, MT

The chaos can overwhelm you after an auto accident in Bozeman. The impact on your life can be profound, from minor collisions to crashes.

Understanding Montana’s complex legal terrain and insurance processes is vital. They can significantly affect your physical and financial recovery post-accident.

By enlisting the help of a knowledgeable Bozeman attorney, you’re prioritizing your rights and recovery. Discover how to find local legal counsel and protect your interests with us today!

Auto Accident Injury Statistics in Bozeman, Montana

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and Highway Patrol provide detailed crash data. For instance, a recent report highlighted a rise in fatalities. These statistics are a stark reminder of the risks on Bozeman’s roadways.

What to Do After an Auto Accident

It’s important to be prepared in the event you are a victim of a car accident. Below are the steps to remember immediately after your crash.

Receive Immediate Medical Attention

What is the most important step that you need to take after an auto accident? You need to receive immediate and proper medical treatment. You may believe that the injuries sustained after an auto accident are minor. Proper medical treatment helps ensure that you have not sustained any internal injuries that you may not be aware of.

File a Police Report

Even if no one sustained injuries, you still need to call 911 and request law enforcement assistance. When officers arrive, jot down each one’s name and badge number. Answer their questions honestly, but don’t volunteer any unasked for information, especially your thoughts on exactly what happened or who caused the car accident. Be sure to ask the officers for the number of their police report. Also ask when and where you can get a copy of it, including how much it will cost you.

You may contact the Gallatin County Records Department for your accident report. The records department is in the main lobby of the Law & Justice Center at 615 South 16th Ave.

Gather the Appropriate Documentation

While waiting for officers to arrive after a car accident, collect information from all other drivers involved in the accident, including the following:

• Full name, address, phone number and email address
• Driver’s license state and number
• Auto insurance company name, policy number and phone number

Use your cell phone to take pictures of each driver’s license, auto insurance card, your vehicle and each additional vehicle involved in the car accident. Don’t rely on verbal communication. Having as much information as possible will only help you and your case later on. Try to keep this exchange as civil and friendly as possible. However, do not apologize for causing the accident or indicate in any way that you think you may have caused it.

Recovering Damages After an Auto Accident Injury

After surviving a car accident, the emotional and economic toll it takes can be staggering. You are not only dealing with the mental anguish that comes with being involved in a crash, but you may also be experiencing severe physical harm as well.

Common injuries associated with motor vehicle accidents include:

• Burn injuries
• Back and neck injuries, such as whiplash
• Brain and head injuries
• Broken bones
• Spinal injuries
• Soft tissue injuries

Motor vehicle crashes can have a staggering economic impact on Bozeman locals. They cost society $340 billion in 2019 alone. This amount reflects the comprehensive toll of crashes, including 36,500 fatalities, 4.5 million injuries, and damage to 23 million vehicles. This figure translates to an average cost of $1,035.

Auto Accident Laws in Montana

Liability Laws for Bozeman

When car accidents happen, it is essential to determine who bears responsibility for the resulting damage and medical bills. Determining fault impacts everything from your insurance claim and level of liability to the amount of confusion you may endure during the claims process.

Auto accident cases in Bozeman rely on Montana’s fault-based insurance system. As a result, the party responsible for causing the accident pays for damages. Additionally, Montana’s comparative negligence law may reduce a claimant’s compensation if they are found partly at fault.

Statute of Limitations in Bozeman

Each state has its own tort laws that determine the statute of limitations on a claim. In some states, this gives you just one year to file a claim in court, while some others may give you up to six years.

The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in Montana is three years from the accident. This timeframe is crucial for victims to seek compensation in Bozeman.

This is why it is important to consult with an attorney immediately after your car crash. Don’t wait and risk losing out on any compensation they can recover.

Work With an Experienced Auto Accident Lawyer Near Bozeman, MT

After a car accident, you have enough to worry about. We can help you find an auto accident attorney for your unique case. Get the financial restitution that you deserve if you’re the victim of someone else’s conduct. We can even help you connect with legal help across Montana state lines.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an attorney in your area!