Why This Matters
After a boating accident in Salt Lake City, dealing with insurance companies can feel like navigating choppy waters. They might undervalue your claim or deny it outright—but you don’t have to accept that. Here’s a detailed guide to navigating the insurance claim process in Utah, so you can get the compensation you deserve.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Claim
- Gather Evidence
Photos of the boats, damage, water conditions, and your injuries are crucial. Get the other boater’s insurance info and witness statements.
- Local Tip: The Great Salt Lake often has other boaters around—their accounts can support your claim.
- Notify the Other Boater’s Insurance
Since Utah is a fault state, the at-fault boater’s insurance should pay. Contact them promptly, but don’t give a recorded statement without a lawyer—they can twist your words.
- What to Expect: They’ll assign an adjuster to evaluate your claim.
- Submit Your Claim
Provide all evidence—medical bills, repair estimates, and proof of lost wages. Be thorough; missing info can lead to denials.
- Pro Tip: Keep copies of everything you send.
- Negotiate the Settlement
Insurers often offer low settlements first. Don’t accept until you know the full extent of your injuries—some, like whiplash, take time to show up.
- Example: A Salt Lake City boater rejected a $10,000 offer and, with legal help, settled for $50,000 after proving long-term pain.
- Use Your Own Insurance if Needed
If the other boater is uninsured or flees, your uninsured watercraft coverage can step in. Most Utah boat policies include this—check yours.
- Fallback Option: Utah’s statute allows you to sue the boater directly if insurance fails.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Settling Too Soon: Don’t sign anything until you’re fully healed—future medical costs might not be covered.
- Not Documenting Losses: Lost wages, boat repairs, even therapy—include it all.
- Going It Alone: Insurance companies have lawyers—you should too.
When to Hire a Lawyer
If the insurer denies your claim, offers too little, or blames you for the accident, a Salt Lake City boating accident attorney can help. They’ll negotiate, handle paperwork, and fight for max compensation.
Ceda Law Group knows the insurance game inside out. Contact us today for a free case evaluation—we’ll fight for what you deserve.
