Understanding Utah’s Auto Accident Laws

Utah auto accidents can turn lives upside down in an instant. Whether dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or disputes with insurance companies, understanding Utah’s auto accident laws is crucial to protecting your rights. At Waddoups Law, our Salt Lake City personal injury attorneys help injured victims navigate the legal system and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Here, we break down Utah’s key auto accident laws, including no-fault insurance, comparative negligence, deadlines for filing a claim, and when you can sue the at-fault driver.

Is Utah a No-Fault State for Auto Accidents?

Utah has a no-fault insurance system. This means that after an accident, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. PIP is mandatory for all car insurance policies in Utah.

What Does PIP Insurance Cover?

Under Utah law, all drivers must carry at least $3,000 in PIP coverage on their auto insurance policies.

PIP benefits cover:

• Medical expenses up to your policy limit.
• Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working.
• Household services if you cannot perform daily tasks.
• Funeral expenses in fatal accidents.

PIP does not cover pain and suffering or full lost wages. You may need to file a claim against the at-fault driver to seek compensation beyond PIP limits.

Can I Sue the At-Fault Driver in Utah?

Yes, but only if your injuries meet the state’s threshold for filing a personal injury lawsuit.

You can step outside Utah’s no-fault system and sue the responsible driver if you:

• Incur more than $3,000 in medical expenses.
• Suffer permanent disability, disfigurement, or impairment.

If your injuries are severe, you may be entitled to additional compensation, including:

• Full past and future medical costs.
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering.

Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule, Utah Code § 78B-5-818.

This means:

• You can still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault.
• Your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation.

For example, if you are found 20% at fault for an accident and your damages total $100,000, your compensation will be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $80,000. However, if you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.

How Long Do I Have to File an Auto Accident Claim in Utah?

The statute of limitations sets a four-year deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit. If the crash resulted in a fatality, a wrongful death claim must be filed within two years.

If you fail to file within these deadlines, you will lose your right to compensation, so it’s important to act quickly.

Contact Our Skilled Salt Lake City Auto Accident Lawyers Today

If you’ve been injured in an auto accident in Utah, don’t navigate the legal process alone. At Waddoups Law Personal Injury Attorney, we fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. Let our experienced legal team help you move forward with confidence.

Related Links:

• The Role of Police Reports in Utah Auto Accident Claims
• The Importance of Medical Documentation in Utah Auto Accident Cases
• How Semi-Truck Accidents Differ from Car Accidents in Utah
• Dealing with Insurance Companies After an Auto Accident in Utah