Whether you are traveling on the Star Valley Scenic Highway or another road for work or leisure, you never expect to be involved in a car accident. Unfortunately, these motor vehicle crashes can occur at any time, usually when you least expect it.
Many people who are in car accidents suffer injuries, a reduction in income, and mounting medical bills. However, there is hope. You have the right to seek compensation for your damages.
At Edwards Law Office, P.C., let our team of qualified legal professionals help you get the money you swerve after a crash. Contact our Etna car accident lawyer to learn more about your legal options.
Wyoming Automobile Collision Statistics
Our state has some concerning statistics when it comes to vehicle crash deaths. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), Wyoming ranks among the deadliest states for fatal traffic accidents. In 2020, it had the second-highest number of vehicle deaths per 100,000 people (22), compared to the nationwide figure of 11.7.
When considering miles driven, Wyoming’s figures appear comparatively better. The state had 1.3 deaths per 100 million total vehicle miles traveled, below the national rate of 1.34 deaths in that category.
Why Car Crashes Occur in Etna
There are numerous reasons why these car wrecks occur in the state. Some of the most common factors involve:
- Intoxicated driving
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Failure to obey traffic signs and signals
- Mechanical failures
- Poor road conditions
Many of these issues result from reckless and negligent behavior by others. If that happened in your accident, you could be entitled to compensation. Contact an Etna car accident lawyer to learn more about your legal options. Case evaluations at our law firm are free of charge.
Have You Suffered These Injuries?
If you have experienced a car crash in Star Valley, you could be entitled to compensation. Many of these incidents leave individuals with injuries. Often, car accident victims will need extensive treatment and rehabilitation to return to their daily lives.
Some of the most common types of injuries we witness among our clients include:
- Whiplash: This occurs due to rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck during a collision. The victim often feels neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and sometimes shoulder discomfort.
- Broken bones: The impact of the crash can lead to fractures in the legs, arms, ribs, and collarbone.
- Soft tissue injuries: During an accident, sprains, bruises, and strains are common in a vehicular accident.
- Head and brain injuries: The head and brain are susceptible to serious injuries. Some individuals may suffer a concussion or a trauma, but brain injury leads to dizziness, memory issues, headaches, and confusion.
- Spinal cord injuries: In some severe cases, these accidents can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to slipped discs or even paralysis.
- Internal organ damage: Blunt force trauma is not uncommon, and it can affect the kidneys, spleen, and liver. Sometimes, that can result in internal bleeding.
Unfortunately, as the statistics show, fatalities can occur on Wyoming’s roads. No matter the type of accident, serious and life-changing injuries are always possible. If you or a loved one has been affected by a car accident in Etna, contact Edwards Law Office, P.C.
Recoverable Compensation in Car Accident Cases
When determining compensation after a car wreck, the factors in your case will decide whether or not you qualify for damages. In most cases, you can expect to receive compensation for:
- Medical expenses: If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be eligible to recover medical costs related to hospital bills, doctor visits, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and other treatments.
- Lost wages: If your injuries have prevented you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income.
- Pain and suffering: Noneconomic damages, including emotional trauma and physical pain, may also be compensable.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement: If your accident results in long-term disability or disfigurement, compensation awards help to offset the impact on your quality of life and future earning potential.
- Wrongful death: In cases of fatal accidents, surviving family members can recover compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional damage resulting from the loss of their loved one.
Liability for Crash-Related Injuries Under the Wyoming Law
Those who engage in reckless and negligent behavior can be held accountable for their actions, especially when they cause injuries and other damages. To pursue a personal injury claim or a wrongful death lawsuit, you need to prove that the other party was liable for the incident.
But what happens if you are partly at fault?
Wyoming follows a modified comparative negligence rule. In these cases, if you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced. However, if you are 51% or more at fault, then you could lose out on collecting compensation.
Allow Us To Handle Your Etna Car Accident Claim
If you have been injured in a wreck, it is important to talk to a qualified Etna car accident attorney. With a consultation, you can better understand your potential compensation.
If you have been in an auto accident, you can count on Edwards Law Office, P.C. to advocate for your rights and pursue compensation. Let us handle your claim while you focus on your recovery. Schedule a consultation with an Etna car accident lawyer today.