How To Prove Fault in Utah Car Accidents: A Comprehensive Guide

How To Prove Fault in a Utah Car Accident

Determining fault after a car accident in Utah can be straightforward in some cases, like rear-end collisions, but far more complex in scenarios involving multiple vehicles or disputed events. Knowing how to prove fault is crucial to securing fair compensation for damages and injuries.

This guide outlines actionable steps to gather evidence and navigate fault determination in Utah car accident claims.

Key Steps to Prove Fault in a Car Accident

1. Take Pictures Immediately

Visual evidence is one of the most powerful tools to determine fault. Use your phone to document:

  • Property damage on all vehicles.
  • Vehicle license plates.
  • Driver’s licenses and insurance cards.
  • The intersection, road conditions, and skid marks.

Examples:

  • In rear-end collisions, damage to the rear bumper usually shows the rear vehicle caused the accident.
  • In left-hand turn collisions, damage to the side or rear of the turning vehicle can indicate that the oncoming driver may share fault.

2. Note the Location of Vehicles

The position of the vehicles after the crash provides valuable clues. For example:

  • A vehicle in the center of an intersection might show it had the right-of-way.
  • A car hit near the exit of an intersection could indicate the driver had almost completed their turn, shifting fault to the oncoming driver.

3. Exchange Contact Information

Always exchange insurance details and contact information with the other driver. If possible, get the same details from passengers and witnesses. Even in minor accidents, delayed injuries like muscle soreness can arise, making documentation essential.

4. Call the Police

Even in minor collisions, contacting the police ensures there is an official record of the accident. A police report includes initial fault assessments, witness statements, and evidence that can strengthen your case.

5. Speak to Witnesses

If witnesses are present, gather their contact details or take photos of their driver’s licenses and license plates. Witness testimony can provide unbiased accounts of the collision, especially in disputed cases.

6. Retain an Attorney

Hiring an experienced Utah personal injury attorney immediately after the accident helps preserve critical evidence, such as:

  • Local business camera footage.
  • Police or jail booking footage.
  • Photos of skid marks and road damage.

Attorneys can also interview witnesses while their memories are fresh and ensure key evidence is preserved.

Additional Factors That Help Prove Fault

Admissions of Fault

Avoid admitting fault at the accident scene. While it may feel polite, admitting fault could harm your claim later when additional evidence emerges.

Accident Reconstructionists

Experts like accident reconstructionists analyze the scene to determine speed, impact points, and other factors that clarify fault. Their analysis can be critical in complex cases.

Skid Marks

Skid marks fade quickly, so time-stamped photos are essential. These marks often reveal the point of impact and braking patterns, helping to establish fault.

Comparative Fault in Utah

Utah follows a comparative fault system, which means multiple parties can share fault for an accident. Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Key Rule: Utah is a “51% fault state,” meaning you cannot recover damages if you are 50% or more at fault.

Examples:

  • Rear-End Collision: If the jury finds the rear driver 100% at fault and awards $100,000 in damages, the victim receives the full amount.
  • Left-Hand Turn Collision: If the jury assigns 20% fault to the oncoming driver for speeding and 80% to the turning driver, the victim’s $100,000 award is reduced to $80,000.

Why Proving Fault Matters

Proving fault impacts the amount of compensation you receive for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A strong case with clear evidence can maximize your settlement or jury award.

Call a Utah Personal Injury Attorney Today

Proving fault in a car accident can be complex, especially in disputed or multi-vehicle crashes. Hiring an experienced Utah personal injury attorney like Jake Gunter ensures you have the guidance and resources needed to secure the best outcome.

Call or text Jake Gunter at (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation.
Let us help you prove fault and recover the compensation you deserve!

Learn More About Utah Accident Lawyer Jake Gunter Jacob S. Gunter | Personal Injury Attorney in Provo

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