Car Accidents

Sioux Falls Car Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Car Accident Victims in South Dakota

At Fay & Associates, we understand the devastating impact a car accident can have on your life. From physical injuries to financial setbacks, the challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable. That’s why our team is dedicated to helping car accident survivors in Sioux Falls secure justice and rightful compensation after another driver hits them. Drawing on extensive experience and a reputation for excellence that goes beyond state lines, we offer personalized attention to every client and handle each case with care, efficiency, and unwavering dedication.

Let us stand by your side. Call our Sioux Falls car accident attorneys at (612) 888-8354 and schedule a FREE consultation.

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents can happen in countless ways—the question is, what mistake led to your car accident? More specifically, what mistake did the other driver make that ended up causing you to suffer a serious injury?

Common forms of driver errors and negligent factors that lead to car accidents include:

  • Distracted driving: Whether caused by texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, taking your focus off the road for even a moment can lead to tragic outcomes.
  • Speeding: Driving over the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions, putting everyone at risk.
  • Drunk driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and coordination, leading to avoidable yet catastrophic accidents.
  • Running traffic signals: Disregarding stop signs or red lights often causes high-speed collisions at intersections.
  • Fatigue: Drowsy driving, especially during long trips or late at night, significantly increases the likelihood of losing control behind the wheel.
  • Adverse weather conditions: Rain, snow, and ice create slippery roads, while fog and heavy wind reduce visibility, making driving more dangerous, especially when drivers do not adjust their driving behaviors to be more careful.

Common Injuries in Car Accidents

Common injuries may include:

Whiplash & Neck Injuries

Sudden impact can cause the head to snap back and forth, straining muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. Symptoms may take days to appear and include stiffness, headaches, and a limited range of motion.

Back Injuries

Car accidents frequently cause:
  • Herniated or bulging discs
  • Muscle sprains and strains
  • Spinal misalignment
    These injuries can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues if not treated properly.

Head & Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Even without hitting your head, the brain can be injured due to violent movement. Common TBIs include:
  • Concussions
  • Skull fractures
  • Contusions
  • Symptoms may include dizziness, confusion, memory problems, or loss of consciousness.

Broken Bones & Fractures

The force of a collision could break bones in the:
  • Arms and wrists (bracing for impact)
  • Legs and ankles
  • Ribs and collarbone
    Some fractures often require surgery and long recovery periods.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments is extremely common and may include bruising, swelling, and tears. These injuries are often underestimated but can be very painful and long-lasting.

Chest Injuries

Seatbelts and airbags save lives, but can cause injuries such as:
  • Bruised or fractured ribs
  • Internal organ damage
  • Chest wall contusions

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma could damage organs like the liver, kidneys, or spleen. These injuries aren’t always immediately obvious and can be life-threatening without prompt medical care.

Cuts, Lacerations & Burns

Broken glass, metal, or airbag deployment may cause:
  • Deep cuts
  • Scarring
  • Burns or abrasions

Knee & Joint Injuries

Impact with the dashboard or door can damage knees, shoulders, hips, and elbows, sometimes leading to long-term joint instability or arthritis.

What Evidence Can Help Prepare a Car Accident Claim?

Preparing a strong car accident claim usually requires thorough documentation and a comprehensive approach to gathering evidence. You might not be able to collect or preserve this information easily because you are trying to recover from your injuries, and casework could put a strain on you. Let our Sioux Falls car accident attorneys handle evidence collection and its use for you instead.

Evidence that might help with your car accident claim includes:

  • Police reports: Law enforcement documentation often contains crucial information about how the accident occurred and who may be at fault.
  • Photos of the accident scene: Pictures showing vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and injuries can provide visual proof that strengthens your claim.
  • Dashcam footage: Video recordings from a car’s dashboard camera can serve as clear evidence of the events before and during the accident.
  • Medical records: Documenting your injuries and treatment is essential to demonstrating the impact of the crash on your health.
  • Witness statements: Testimony from individuals who saw the accident can confirm the series of events and support claims about another party’s negligence.
  • Expert opinions: Professionals such as accident reconstructionists or medical experts can provide valuable insight that reinforces your claim in negotiations or court.

What Compensation Can You Get in a Car Accident Claim?

Depending on the details of your case, you may be able to recover several types of compensation, including:

  • Medical expenses: Covers emergency room bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any future treatment needed for your recovery.
  • Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, you could recover compensation for both past lost income and reduced earning capacity.
  • Pain and suffering: Beyond financial losses, compensation can address the physical pain and emotional anguish caused by the accident.
  • Emotional distress: Psychological effects, such as PTSD or anxiety following a crash, may also warrant compensation.
  • Property damage: Damage to your vehicle or personal belongings in the car can also be compensated.

For example, if you suffered a severe injury in a car accident that requires months of recovery and you missed work as a result, we would fight to maximize your financial recovery, accounting for both immediate costs and long-term impacts. We are committed to understanding the extent of your losses and fighting for every penny you are owed.

You Have The Full Backing Of Our Entire Staff
With a full staff of attorneys, paralegals and investigators, our entire staff is dedicated to getting our clients the best possible results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims

What should I do immediately after a car accident?

After getting to safety and calling emergency services, document the scene by taking photos, collecting witness information, and exchanging insurance details with the other driver. Always seek medical attention and contact an experienced attorney to guide you through what comes next.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in South Dakota?

The statute of limitations for car accident claims in South Dakota is generally three years. Filing beyond this timeframe can result in losing your right to pursue compensation, so it is important to act quickly.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

You may still have options if you are hit by an uninsured driver, such as filing a claim under your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Our attorneys can help you explore alternative avenues to pursue compensation.

How is fault determined in a car accident case?

Fault is determined by evaluating evidence like police reports, witness statements, and traffic laws. South Dakota follows a comparative negligence rule that may allow you to recover damages if your fault is nonexistent or slight compared to the defendant’s greater negligence. 

Do I need a lawyer to handle my car accident claim?

While not required, having an attorney can greatly simplify the process of pursuing compensation and help you avoid mistakes that might jeopardize your claim. A lawyer can also handle negotiations with insurance companies, collect evidence, and represent your interests in court if necessary.

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Standing Ready to Be Your Advocates

EXPECT THE INDIVIDUALIZED ATTENTION YOU DESERVE
  • Invested in You

    Our relationship with clients begins with a consultation and continues through your case and life outside the courtroom. We are invested in your case, but also you. 

  • Advocates for the Injured

    We choose to focus our firm in a few areas of law so we can stay in the forefront of legal changes and gain in-depth legal knowledge that our clients can benefit from. Our attorneys never represent insurance companies or large corporations.

  • Treating Clients Like Partners
    With Fay & Associates, you have the entire backing of our firm, including the breadth and depth of our resources standing behind you.
  • “I would have loved to offer him more than the five stars!”
    If I have more than five stars to offer Eric Nelson, I would have loved to offer him more than the five stars. Eric treated me with humility. He felt my pains and stood firm to represent me that allowed me got my just settlement.
    - Rebecca E.
  • “Eric was very knowledgeable and, obviously, experienced!”
    “Eric was very knowledgeable and, obviously, experienced!”
    - Michelle M.
  • “Helpful and timely support.”
    I've been working with Fay & Associates for about 2 years. They've been helpful and always get back to me in a timely manner, which I appreciate. They inform me promptly when I need to sign papers or see a doctor. Fay & Associates have made my workers' comp experience much easier. Highly recommend!
    - Andie Williams
  • “He will get you what you deserve, and you will not be disappointed!”
    I recently had the privilege of working with Fay & Associates. Michael knows his business, and he is very knowledgeable, caring, compassionate and understood my cases. He kept his word and everything was done in a timely fashion. He is very precise. He will get you what you deserve, and you will not be disappointed! Yes, I will also refer others if needed!
    - Denice W.
  • “I definitely recommend having him as a lawyer cuz he gets the job done!”
    “I definitely recommend having him as a lawyer cuz he gets the job done!”
    - Shelby W.
  • “Loved working with Michael and his team!”
    Loved working with Michael and his team! Very professional, efficient, knowledgeable , and communication was top-tier. This was my first time hiring a lawyer for an auto accident and I had a great experience and would hire them again . One of the best decisions Ive made. They were able to settle my case amount with more than I expected.

    Don’t hesitate to work with this company. They are the best of the best if I could give more than five stars, I definitely would!
    - Aryonna E.
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Contact Our Car Accident Attorney in Sioux Falls Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, our Sioux Falls car accident attorneys are here to provide the trusted legal support you need during this difficult time. With a genuine commitment to justice and personalized client care, we work tirelessly to pursue the full compensation you deserve. Don’t just hope for the best after being in a car accident—demand it with the legal representation of Fay & Associates!

To request a no-cost case review, call (612) 888-8354 today to get started with our Sioux Falls car accident lawyers.

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