When accidents happen, it’s not just people who get hurt. Cars, homes, fences, and other personal property can be damaged, too. This is called property damage, and if someone else caused it, you may be able to get money to help fix or replace your damaged items. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and seek fair compensation. It is helpful to understand what property damage is, how to handle it, and what steps to take if it happens to you.
What Is Property Damage?
Property damage is harm caused to your belongings due to someone else’s actions or negligence.
It can happen in many ways, such as:
- A car accident that dents or destroys your vehicle
- A neighbor’s tree falling on your roof
- A fire caused by faulty wiring in an apartment
- Vandalism or intentional damage to your belongings
Property damage can affect real property (like a home or land) or personal property (like a phone, bike, or car). If your stuff is damaged and it wasn’t your fault, it may be considered property damage.
Common Causes of Property Damage in Utah
Property damage can happen anywhere, but in Utah, some causes are more common due to weather, traffic, and construction. Here are some examples:
Car Accidents
Utah sees thousands of car crashes every year. If your car gets hit and damaged, the driver at fault may need to pay for repairs.
Bad Weather
Heavy snow, windstorms, and rain can damage roofs, cars, and other property. If someone didn’t take care of their property and it caused damage to yours, they could be responsible.
Construction Accidents
Construction sites can cause problems like cracked sidewalks or flying debris. If workers or companies are careless, they may owe you money for the damage.
Fires
House fires can be caused by faulty appliances, wiring problems, or careless behavior. If someone’s mistake leads to fire damage, you may have a claim.
These examples show how easily property damage can happen — and why it’s important to understand your options.
What to Do After Property Damage Happens
If your property gets damaged, the steps you take next are important. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay safe – Make sure you and your loved ones are okay. If the damage happened during an accident, call 911 if needed.
- Document everything – Take pictures or videos of the damage. Write down what happened while it’s fresh in your memory. This will help if you file an insurance claim or lawsuit.
- Report the damage – Depending on what happened, you may need to report the incident
- Get repair estimates – Get at least two or three written estimates for the cost to repair or replace your property. Keep all receipts related to the damage.
- Talk to a lawyer – A personal injury lawyer can help you understand if you have a case. They can deal with the insurance companies and make sure you get fair treatment.
By following these steps, you protect your rights and improve your chances of being fully compensated.
Can I Get Compensation for Property Damage?
Yes, you can often get money for your damaged property — but it depends on a few things:
- Who was at fault: If someone else caused the damage, they (or their insurance) may have to pay.
- Your insurance: If you have car, renters, or homeowners insurance, your policy may cover some of the costs.
- The type of damage: Some insurance policies don’t cover all kinds of property, so it’s important to read the details.
In Utah, you usually have four years to file a property damage claim. This is called the statute of limitations. After that, you may lose your right to get compensation. You may be able to recover the cost of repairs, the value of your lost property, and sometimes even extra money if the damage was intentional or involved gross negligence.
Property Damage and Personal Injury: What’s the Difference?
It’s important to know the difference between property damage and personal injury:
- Property damage is harm to your belongings
- Personal injury is harm to your body or mind
Sometimes, both can happen at once — like in a car crash where your car is totaled and you’re hurt. In these cases, your lawyer can help you file both types of claims at the same time. You don’t have to choose between filing for personal injury or property damage. You can usually do both if the situation fits.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Property damage can be expensive, frustrating, and confusing. You shouldn’t have to deal with it alone — especially if it wasn’t your fault. At our Utah personal injury law firm, we work hard to help clients recover what they’ve lost. Whether it’s a damaged car, broken fence, or something more serious, we’ll stand by your side and fight for fair compensation.
Contact Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers at (801) 851-1202 for a free consultation and learn more about your options.
