Were you rear-ended by a speeding driver on I‑90? Sideswiped by someone texting on I‑29 near Sioux Falls? Or maybe a drunk driver ran a red light on I‑229? No matter how the crash occurred, swift legal action is essential to protect your rights and ensure fair compensation.
At Northern Plains Justice, our experienced Sioux Falls car accident attorneys help victims across South Dakota by immediately launching thorough investigations and crafting winning strategies. We’re well-versed in local laws, crash hotspots, and how to gather the evidence necessary to maximize your recovery.
Common Types of Car Accidents We Handle in South Dakota
Were you rear-ended by a speeding driver on I‑90? Sideswiped by someone texting on I‑29 near Sioux Falls? Or maybe a drunk driver ran a red light on I‑229? No matter how the crash occurred, swift legal action is essential to protect your rights and ensure fair compensation.
Our firm has resolved countless car accident cases in South Dakota. Here are some of the most frequent crashes we see:
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Rear-end collisions – Usually clear-cut fault, especially if you were struck from behind. These crashes often cause neck and back injuries, whiplash, and head trauma.
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Hit-and-run accidents – Missed out on identifying the at-fault driver? We help victims pursue uninsured motorist claims and investigate to locate the responsible party.
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Uninsured or underinsured drivers – Though insurance is mandatory in South Dakota, some drivers ignore the law or carry insufficient coverage.
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T-bone (side-impact) collisions – Often occur at intersections when drivers run lights or fail to yield—leading to serious injuries, especially on the side of impact.
For more on what to do right after a crash, check out our car accident injury articles.
At Northern Plains Justice, our experienced Sioux Falls car accident attorneys help victims across South Dakota by immediately launching thorough investigations and crafting winning strategies. We’re well-versed in local laws, crash hotspots, and how to gather the evidence necessary to maximize your recovery.
Why Many South Dakota Crashes Happen
Identifying the cause helps determine who pays. Here are some of the most common reasons for crashes statewide:Distracted driving – Frequently denied by drivers, but our investigators know how to uncover proof of texting or inattention.
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Speeding – With speeds reaching up to 80 mph on I‑90 and I‑29, collisions often turn deadly.
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Texting behind the wheel – Illegal in South Dakota yet still prevalent—and highly dangerous.
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Drunk driving – Impaired drivers continue to cause tragic wrecks—and need to face accountability.
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Driver fatigue – Long rural stretches can lead to drivers nodding off. That’s negligence.
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Tailgating – Rear-end crashes from close-following lead to soft tissue injuries and spinal trauma.
What You Must Do After a South Dakota Collision
Even if the other driver appears clearly at fault, insurance companies often deny claims unless you follow these steps:
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Call the police: South Dakota mandates reporting accidents involving injury, death, or $2,000+ in damage. The officer’s Motor Vehicle Traffic Accident Report can be a game-changer in your claim.
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Take photos: Capture the scene—including vehicle damage, skid marks, street signs, and weather conditions.
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Exchange details: Collect the other driver’s name, license information, and insurance details—keeping your own comments brief and factual.
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Talk to witnesses: Obtain their contact info and statements about what they observed.
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Seek medical attention: Even if you feel okay. Internal injuries and traumatic brain injuries can appear days later—and delayed treatment can hurt your compensation.
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Notify your insurer: Report the accident, but don’t overshare. If contacted by the other driver’s insurer, direct them to your lawyer before giving any statements.
FAQs About South Dakota Car Accident Claims
Is South Dakota a fault-based state?
Yes—that means the at-fault driver’s insurance covers your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
Not without legal advice. Insurance companies often lowball early offers to avoid paying full costs. A settlement may not cover long-term medical care and wage losses.
How much is my claim worth?
It varies based on injury severity, vehicle damage, missed work, and ongoing treatment. Awards can range from a few thousand dollars to millions in serious cases.
Why hire a Sioux Falls car accident attorney?
Insurance companies have legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts. You need an advocate who can:
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Investigate with experts and gather accident reconstruction
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Obtain witness testimonies
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Secure medical records that clearly link injuries to the crash
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Build a strong demand or lawsuit if needed
Why Northern Plains Justice Stands Out
At Northern Plains Justice, we work exclusively for you. Our attorneys don’t answer to insurers or third parties—we value your recovery above all else. We thoroughly investigate every case—visiting crash sites, interviewing witnesses, consulting experts, and reviewing accident reports—to build the strongest possible case in your favor.
Ready to Take Action? Contact Us Today
Let our dedicated South Dakota legal team help lift the burden off your shoulders. With Northern Plains Justice in your corner, you’ll have room to focus on healing—not dealing with insurance tactics or legal pressure. Contact us to schedule a free consultation and discover how we can fight for the full compensation you deserve.
