Car Accident Attorneys Serving Boise and Meridian, Idaho

If you’re searching for a car accident attorney, there’s a good chance you’ve been having a difficult time, perhaps due to injuries, feeling belittled by insurance companies, or a combination of both. 

No matter what, it's likely that you've been through a traumatic experience. Car accidents can result in physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial strain. It's important to have someone on your side who can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. At Shep Law, our car accident attorneys can provide you with the best possible representation and support during this challenging time. 

We're proud to serve clients in Boise, Meridian, Ada County, Canyon County, and beyond. In fact, we handle cases statewide, ensuring that justice is accessible to all Idaho residents.  

We're proud to offer our personal injury services on a contingency fee basis, which means that we don't get paid unless we recover financial compensation for you. This approach allows us to shoulder the financial risk of the case, ensuring that you can focus on what truly matters — your recovery. Reach out today for a free consultation to discuss your case.  

What to Do After a Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a frightening and confusing experience. It's crucial to take certain steps to safeguard your rights and ensure you're eligible for the compensation you deserve.  

1. First and foremost, prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident. If anyone is injured, call for medical assistance immediately. We strongly recommend seeking medical attention, even if you don't believe you've suffered any serious injuries. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can properly evaluate your condition. Additionally, seeking medical treatment will create a record of your injuries, which can be crucial for your insurance claim or potential lawsuit. 

2. Next, gather as much information as possible about the accident. This includes taking photos of the accident scene, exchanging contact and insurance information with the other parties involved, and obtaining contact information from any witnesses.  

3. You also need to report the accident to the appropriate authorities, such as the local police department or the Idaho State Police. Accidents causing injury, death, or property damage over $1,500 must be reported. We can't stress the importance of this enough. Even if it's a minor accident, you should still file a report. This will provide an official record of the incident and help with insurance claims down the line.  

4. Once you have all the necessary information, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. You'll need to inform them about what happened and provide any documentation or evidence you've gathered.  

5. Finally, consult a personal injury attorney. Even if your situation seems like a straightforward case, an attorney can offer valuable insight and help you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. 

Should I Accept the Insurance Company's Offer?

It's common for insurance companies to offer a settlement after a car accident. While it can be tempting to accept the money and move on, it's essential to carefully evaluate the offer before doing so. 

While insurance companies are there to cover their drivers in cases of collisions, they are still businesses that generally seek to cut costs in whatever way possible.  To them, you are just a number in a billion-dollar industry.  

So they often try to settle accidents quickly and for minimal amounts in order to save money. This means their initial offer may not fully cover all of your expenses, such as medical bills, car repairs, or lost wages due to time away from work. Their job is to minimize your injury, getting you much less than you deserve or even attempting to deny a valid claim entirely.  

Before accepting a settlement offer, be sure to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help you determine the true value of your case and negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf. Keep in mind that once you accept a settlement offer, you typically waive your right to pursue further legal action related to the accident. 

Understanding Idaho's At-Fault Insurance System

In Idaho, the party responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for covering the damages. This system allows accident victims to seek compensation from the at-fault driver's insurance company. 

But the law acknowledges that accidents are not always the sole responsibility of one party. In these situations, Idaho follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you're found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of your own fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and your total damages amount to $10,000, you may only receive $8,000 in compensation. 

However, if you're found to be 50% or more at fault, you may not be eligible to recover any compensation. 

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you're recovering from injuries. Having our experienced car accident attorneys by your side can greatly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. We'll help you navigate the legal requirements, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the entire process. 

Your Options for Pursuing Compensation

If you've been injured in a car accident in Idaho, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. This allows you to seek compensation for your injuries and any related expenses. However, it's crucial to remember that Idaho has a statute of limitations on these lawsuits — you have just two years from the date of the accident to file your claim. If you don't take action within this timeframe, you may lose your chance to seek compensation. 

Wrongful death claims work similarly. If a loved one has tragically passed away as a result of a car accident, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Again, the statute of limitations is two years, but this time it starts from the date of your loved one's death. 

We know this is a lot to take in, especially when you're dealing with the fallout of an accident. That's why we're here for you. At Shep Law Group, we're committed to guiding you through this complex process and fighting for the compensation you deserve. The sooner you get in touch with us, the better your chances of securing a positive outcome. We operate on a no-contingency basis, so you don't have to worry about any upfront costs while you explore your options. Contact us today for a free consultation.  

Why You Need an Attorney

Working with a trusted car accident firm, such as our own, can guide you to a smoother financial, physical, and emotional recovery. Here at Shep Law Group, we have over 15 years of experience advocating for victims who've been in your shoes. The following are a few reasons why you should consider hiring one of our car accident attorneys: 

1. Legal Knowledge: Car accident laws can be complex, and our attorneys have the experience and skills to pursue a fair settlement.  

2. Investigation Help: We know how to conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gather evidence, and interview witnesses to build a robust case on your behalf. 

3. Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts, and our attorneys are skilled in negotiation to help you receive the maximum compensation you deserve. 

4. Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and overwhelming. By hiring one of our attorneys, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your legal rights are being protected. 

5. Trial Representation: If your case goes to trial, having an attorney who is experienced in courtroom litigation can greatly increase your chances of a favorable outcome. 

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Here at Shep Law Group, we've represented clients involved in a wide range of accident scenarios, including:  

• Distracted driving. This typically involves drivers who are texting, talking on their cell phones, eating, or engaging in other activities that take their attention away from the road. We can't stress enough how important it is to stay focused while driving.  

• Reckless driving. This includes behaviors like speeding, changing lanes without signaling, tailgating, and ignoring traffic signs and signals. It's essential to remember that the rules of the road exist for everyone's safety, and disregarding them puts everyone at risk. 

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These substances impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely, affecting their judgment, coordination, and reaction times. If you're planning to drink, always arrange for a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service. 

• Poor weather conditions. Rain, snow, fog, or icy conditions can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, making it harder for drivers to control their vehicles and react to hazards. These cases can be particularly complicated, as multiple parties may be at fault, such as other drivers or the government agencies responsible for maintaining the roads. 

• Fatigue. Tired drivers have slower reaction times and may even fall asleep at the wheel. If you're feeling tired, it's better to pull over and rest or switch drivers if possible. 

Our versatile experience in regard to car accident claims allows us to effectively handle a wide range of cases. If you've been involved in a car accident, don't hesitate to reach out to Shep Law Group for a free consultation. We'll review your case and advise you on the best steps to take towards receiving the compensation you deserve.