Car Accident Attorney in South Dakota

What Compensation Can a South Dakota Car Accident Attorney Help You Recover?

Common types of compensation in car accident claims include:

• Medical Expenses: Current and future costs of treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescriptions, and medical equipment.
• Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: Paychecks missed while you heal, as well as income you may lose if your injuries prevent you from working in the future.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and any personal items damaged in the collision.
• Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress you endure as a result of the crash.

Every case is unique, and the value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, how your life has been impacted, and the strength of the evidence supporting your case. Insurance companies often try to pay out as little as possible, which is why having a South Dakota car accident attorney on your side can be helpful.

How a South Dakota Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Insurance companies may act like they’re on your side, but their priority is protecting their bottom line. An auto accident lawyer can level the playing field and protect your rights from day one.

Here’s how our co-counsel can help:

• Investigating Your Accident: Collecting police reports, witness statements, photos, medical records, and, if needed, working with accident reconstruction experts.
• Determining All Liable Parties: This may include other motorists, trucking or other commercial companies, third parties such as mechanics or automotive parts manufacturers, and government entities.
• Proving Negligence: Establishing who was at fault by showing the other party’s reckless or careless behavior caused your injuries.
• Handling the Insurance Company: Communicating with adjusters, negotiating aggressively, and preventing you from being pressured into a low settlement.
• Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary: Preparing your case for trial and advocating for you in court if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement.

Having legal representation means you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer fights to maximize your claim. At The Goldwater Law Firm, we partner with some of the biggest and most successful law firms across the country. We also collaborate with a vast network of specialists and industry experts, including physicians and accident reconstruction specialists. Contact us today.

Important South Dakota Laws That May Affect Your Car Accident Claim

Understanding South Dakota’s personal injury laws is essential to protecting your right to compensation. Missing deadlines or misunderstanding liability rules could mean losing out on the recovery you need. Here are the key laws you should know:

South Dakota’s Statute of Limitations

In South Dakota, you generally have three years from the date of your car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, the court may bar your suit completely. Acting quickly ensures evidence is preserved and your rights are protected.

Insurance Requirements

South Dakota requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage

Unfortunately, these minimums may not fully cover the costs of a serious accident. An attorney can help you explore additional options for recovery.

What to Do After a Car Accident in South Dakota

Here’s what to keep in mind if you’ve been in an accident:

• Check for Injuries and Call 911: Get emergency medical help for anyone who is injured and report the accident to law enforcement.
• Move to a Safe Location: If possible, move vehicles out of traffic to avoid further danger, but don’t leave the scene.
• Exchange Information: Collect the other driver’s name, contact details, license plate number, and insurance information.
• Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
• Talk to Witnesses: If anyone saw the accident, ask for their contact information. Their testimony may strengthen your case.
• Seek Medical Care: A doctor’s evaluation is essential for your health and creates a record linking your injuries to the crash.
• Speak With Us: The Goldwater Law Firm can connect you with an attorney who can guide you through every step of the claims process and fight for fair compensation.

Taking the proper steps early on can protect both your health and your case.