Best Car Accident Lawyers in Anaheim

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Anaheim, California?

  Anaheim residents can call (714) 765-1900 for non-emergency police assistance.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Anaheim, California?

  To make a request in person, go to the Anaheim Police Department's business desk, which is open from 6 a.m. to 12:45 a.m., Monday through Sunday. To obtain your report over the phone, dial 714-765-1990 to reach the Anaheim PD's business desk. Anaheim's Traffic Accident Reports page has a link to search for your non-injury accident report.

• What happens if someone else drives your car and is involved in an Anaheim car accident?

  When someone borrows your automobile, they also borrow your insurance because auto insurance covers your vehicle, not you. California's fault rule, which includes Anaheim accidents, applies if your borrower is in an accident caused by another motorist. You and the borrower might pursue insurance claims against the at-fault motorist. You can recoup car repair expenses, and the injured borrower can sue the at-fault driver's insurance.

• Under Anaheim regulations, what happens if you are the at-fault driver with no car insurance?

  Anaheim regulations stipulate that if you cause a car accident and don't have auto insurance, you will have to pay for the other driver's damages out of your own pocket. You must compensate for the other driver's injury. Otherwise, they can sue you if you refuse to pay or are unable to do so. You must also pay to repair the other vehicle's damage as well as your own.

• Is it necessary to go to trial for Anaheim car accidents?

  Most claims for car accidents in Anaheim do not go to court. In fact, most cases are resolved with insurance companies a month or two after a car accident, but that doesn't always happen. If an insurance company denies a claim or refuses to pay a reasonable settlement amount, an Anaheim car accident victim and their attorney may be required to file a lawsuit against the accused negligent party.

• Can a victim sue the government if a roadway defect caused the accident in Anaheim?

  Yes. Anaheim follows California regulations, which stipulate that government entities may and should be held accountable for damages involving poorly designed and maintained roadways and intersections. This encompasses the federal, state, local, and special district levels of government. In contrast to many other types of injury and accident lawsuits, government liability cases are frequently complex, involve particular immunities, and have a six-month statute of limitations beginning on the date of the actual accident.

• How is liability established in a car accident case in Anaheim?

  The process of determining liability begins at the scene of the collision. A car accident victim in Anaheim may begin gathering evidence that might aid their case if they are able to do so safely and do not require emergency medical treatment. However, those who are injured in vehicle accidents are highly advised to consult with an experienced attorney who can assist them with determining culpability, as it can be difficult to determine who is at fault.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.