Hit-and-Run Accidents in Utah: What to Do If an Unknown Driver Causes You to Crash
Understanding Your Rights After Being Cut Off by an Unknown Vehicle
Getting cut off by another vehicle can be a terrifying experience, especially when it results in an accident. But what are your rights if the other car leaves the scene or doesn’t make physical contact with your car? In Utah, hit-and-run accidents and incidents involving unknown vehicles can still qualify for claims, depending on the circumstances. In this guide, we will explore the different scenarios where you can make a claim, what kind of evidence is required, and how you can protect your rights after being cut off by an unknown driver.
Q & A: Can You Make a Claim if an Unknown Vehicle Cut You Off in Utah?
1. Can I Make a Claim Against a Car That Cut Me Off and Caused Me to Crash in Utah?
Yes, it is possible to make a claim against a car that cut you off and caused you to crash, depending on the circumstances. This blog will discuss various scenarios where you may be able to make a claim, even if the car left the scene of the accident or didn’t hit your car.
2. What Happens If the Car That Cut Me Off Remains at the Scene of the Accident?
If the car remains at the scene and there is contact between the vehicles, the driver of the car that cut you off should stay at the scene. You should call the police, who will investigate and determine who is responsible for the accident.
It’s important to remember that the police determination of fault is not binding in civil court. They are doing their best with limited information at the scene, but additional evidence like video footage can change the outcome. Sometimes, surveillance from nearby businesses or dashcam footage can provide crucial evidence that affects the case.
3. What If the Car That Cut Me Off Hit My Car and Left the Scene?
If the car cuts you off, hits your car, and then leaves the scene, you may still be able to make a claim. In this case, if you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim with your insurance provider. The uninsured motorist statute in Utah covers these situations when the car is not later found by police. However, you will need to prove that the other car was at fault, and having an attorney can greatly assist in this process.
4. Can I Make a Claim If the Car That Cut Me Off Leaves the Scene Without Hitting Me?
Yes, under Utah law, you can make a claim against a car that caused you to crash even if it left the scene and did not physically hit your car. However, specific evidence is required to support your claim as outlined by the Utah uninsured motorist statute. You will also need uninsured motorist coverage to proceed.
These cases can be complex and require clear and convincing evidence that a car cut you off. This proof must be more than your own testimony. Video footage, either from dash cams or surveillance cameras at nearby businesses, can serve as this evidence. The testimony of other witnesses may also suffice.
5. What Counts as Evidence to Make a Claim When the Other Car Did Not Make Contact?
The Utah statute does not explicitly define “clear and convincing evidence.” However, in our experience, video footage from dash cams or nearby businesses can be sufficient. Additionally, testimonies from other witnesses at the scene could help prove that another vehicle was involved and at fault.
6. An Example of a Hit-and-Run Case Near Fillmore, Utah
According to an article on KSL.com, a family was recently involved in a hit-and-run accident near Fillmore, Utah. The family was cut off by an unknown vehicle, which caused their car to crash. The unknown car left the scene of the accident. In my opinion, this family could benefit from contacting a Utah-licensed attorney to explore their options, especially since the article mentions that they may have substantial medical expenses.
7. What Should You Do Next?
If you find yourself in a similar situation, you now have a better understanding of your options for making a claim. Whether you were cut off, hit, or the car fled the scene, you may still have recourse under Utah law. If this has happened to you, or you’ve been in any other car accident, give us a call for a free consultation at 801-738-9999.
Know Your Options – Get the Help You Need After an Accident
We hope this guide has clarified your rights if you’ve been cut off by another car and ended up in a crash. Understanding your options can help you take the next steps with confidence. If you’ve experienced this situation or have been in another type of car accident, we’re here to help. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and your options for making a claim. Call us today at 801-738-9999.