No one expects a car accident to happen when they start on their commute. However, a car accident can happen anytime and anywhere. You may be running a quick errand, on your way home, or taking your children to school when another car crashes into your vehicle. Suddenly, you are faced with how to pay medical bills and living expenses while you recover from your injuries.
At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., our lawyers have fought for fair compensation and justice for car accident victims since 1909. Our attorneys have exceptional success records and decades of combined experience. Given what is at stake, hiring an experienced car accident attorney is critical.
Contact Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. to schedule a consultation with a Bismarck personal injury attorney. Our attorneys handle all types of car accident cases.
How Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. Can Help You With a Car Accident in Bismarck, ND
Our lawyers at Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. pursue your claim to obtain a fair settlement or jury verdict for damages. We understand how insurance companies treat accident victims, including how the companies undervalue and deny claims. We help clients by using effective strategies to counter insurance company tactics.
When you hire our Bismarck personal injury attorneys, we will:
- Complete a comprehensive investigation to gather evidence proving how the car accident happened
- Document your damages to determine how much your claim is worth
- Work with expert witnesses, as necessary, to gather additional evidence supporting your claim
- File insurance claims and handle all matters with the insurance companies, including negotiating fair insurance settlements
- Take your case to trial if a fair settlement is not possible
Insurance companies have adjusters, investigators, and lawyers looking out for their interests. You need a legal team on your side to protect your rights. Call Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. to meet with an experienced Bismarck car accident attorney to discuss your rights after a car accident in North Dakota.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Bismarck, ND
Thousands of car accidents happen in North Dakota each year. In 2023, Burleigh County had the second-highest number of reported car crashes, with 2,173 accidents. Cass County had the highest number of crashes, with 2,488 accidents.
Car accidents happen for many reasons. Common causes of car crashes include:
- Distracted driving accidents
- Speed and reckless driving
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Driving under the influence (i.e., DUI accidents)
- Rear-end crashes caused by distractions and tailgating
- Intersection accidents caused by failure to yield the right-of-way
- Fatigue and drowsy driving accidents
- Road rage and aggressive driving
- Failing to follow traffic laws
- Crashes caused by defective automobile parts
Car accidents cause all types of injuries, including spinal cord injuries, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and neck injuries. Victims suffer from soft tissue injuries, organ damage, and loss of limbs. Depending on the factors involved in your case, the driver who caused the accident could be liable for your injuries and losses.
Compensation Available for a Car Accident Claim in North Dakota
North Dakota is a no-fault state for car insurance. Drivers must purchase a minimum of $30,000 in basic no-fault insurance coverage. Accident victims file claims with their insurance provider, regardless of who caused the car accident.
No-fault or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance compensates you for loss of income and medical bills. It can also pay for someone to help with childcare and household chores. However, it does not compensate victims for pain and suffering (non-economic) damages.
However, you may file a claim against the driver who caused the accident if:
- Your medical bills from the accident total $2,500 or more; OR,
- The accident causes a serious and permanent disfigurement or disability that lasts for more than 60 days.
Liability insurance claims against at-fault drivers compensate accident victims for economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical bills and long-term care
- Diminished quality of life and loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of income and earning capacity
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Permanent impairment and disability
The amount you receive for a car accident claim depends on the circumstances of your case. It is important to remember that the steps you take after an accident can significantly impact the outcome of your accident claim.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Bismarck, ND
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. You may be seriously injured and in shock. If possible, take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Call 911 to report the crash and request emergency assistance. It is in your best interest to have an official police report, even if the other driver insists the accident is a minor car crash.
- If you are seriously injured, try to remain still until medical help arrives unless you need to move to avoid danger.
- Collect information from people at the scene, including their names and contact details.
- Use your cell phone to make a video and take pictures of the accident scene.
- Seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries.
- Tell the police the facts of what happened without making assumptions about who caused the accident.
In addition to taking steps to protect your rights, there are things you should avoid doing after a car accident. Things not to do after a car accident include:
- Do not admit that you caused the accident or say anything that could be interpreted as fault. Saying you are sorry or being apologetic could be interpreted as admitting fault
- Do not discuss the car accident with other people at the accident scene.
- Never leave the accident scene until the police tell you to do so. If the accident is minor and the police do not investigate, do not leave without exchanging information with the other driver.
- Do not talk to the insurance company without legal advice. Insurance adjusters are skilled at getting people to say things that can be misconstrued as admitting fault.
- Do not delay medical care or fail to follow a treatment plan. Doing so could hurt your case.
- Avoid using social media or discussing the accident online. Insurance companies may access online information, even if it is set to private settings.
If you have questions about a car accident claim, call us. Our legal team guides clients through the claims process by providing support, guidance, and trusted legal advice.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Bismarck Car Accident Attorneys
Because of North Dakota’s no-fault insurance laws, car accident claims can be confusing. Hiring a local personal injury attorney is crucial after a Bismarck car accident. Local attorneys understand state laws and how claims are handled.
At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., our lawyers help clients with all types of car accident claims. Call our office to schedule an appointment with our Bismarck personal injury attorneys. We are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve after a car accident in North Dakota.
